| Cover Page | Feb. 24, 2025 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 24, 2025 |
| Entity Registrant Name | BURFORD CAPITAL LIMITED |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | Y7 |
| Entity File Number | 001-39511 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | Oak House |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Hirzel Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | St. Peter Port |
| Entity Address, Country | GG |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | GY1 2NP |
| Country Region | +44 |
| City Area Code | 1481 |
| Local Phone Number | 723 450 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Ordinary shares, no par value |
| Trading Symbol | BUR |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001714174 |
