Peterborough
With green open spaces, rustic pubs and historical buildings, there is plenty to do in Peterborough to keep you busy on your day out.
Situated in the heart of rural east England, Peterborough is a city that continues to grow at a rapid rate – meaning that the list of things to do there also increasingly expands! Peterborough days out truly have something for everyone – whether it’s learning about historical buildings, walking around the award-winning green spaces or attending one of its many events.
Sharing borders with Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire and Lincolnshire, getting to Peterborough couldn’t be easier, and by travelling with us you’ll receive a brilliant service, with minimum fuss.
So, if you want to hear more about all the things to do in Peterborough, as well as some great tips on how to save money on your train tickets, read on!
Getting to Peterborough
No matter whether you are heading to Peterborough from Edinburgh, London Kings Cross or Lincoln Central, we can get you there smoothly on one of our comfortable trains. The last thing you need to worry about on your day out is the cost of getting to Peterborough, which is why we have plenty of money-saving offers that our passengers can choose from when they buy their tickets with us.
For example, parties of 3-9 adults travelling during Off-Peak periods can earn a significant discount on their tickets with our GroupSave offerings. Or, if you are planning to travel with the kids, up to four children can travel for just £2 if they’re between the ages of 5-15 and you’re all going outside of peak times. Alternatively, you can choose from a wide range of Railcards that we have available. Check out our list of options to see if you qualify, and you can start saving straightaway!
Things to do in Peterborough
If you’re feeling active, you can choose to ride bikes through the Green Wheel network of cycle routes, where you’ll pass through woodland, lakes and rivers. On your journey, you’ll also come across inviting country pubs where you can stop for an ice-cold drink and some excellent food.
Located in the city centre, keen shoppers can find Queensgate Shopping Centre. On the high street, you’ll find independent stores and the City Market, as well as the popular food court where you can sample some delicious delicacies. No matter your interests, there are plenty of things to do in Peterborough to keep you busy.
Peterborough Cathedral
Peterborough Cathedral is one of the most dramatic, impressive buildings in the east of England and is the city’s most famous building and is well worth a visit to admire the stunning architecture and discover its long and storied history. Complete with an almost fully original Romanesque interior, this is an impressive place to visit. Take a gander and feel awestruck by its enormity and effortless grandeur. In the warmer months, you can journey to the upper levels and enjoy the view from one of the tallest towers in the city.
Peterborough Key Theatre
If live entertainment is more your thing, you won’t be disappointed by the exciting programme at Peterborough Key Theatre. The venue is conveniently located on the Embankment, so you’ll also be able to enjoy a lovely walk along the river before or after the show. Check the extensive programme online before your visit to make sure you don’t miss out.
Elton Hall & Gardens
Top-rated Elton Hall & Gardens makes the perfect place for a romantic retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Peterborough’s centre. This elegant country house backing onto a beautifully presented garden makes for a wonderful afternoon spent together with a picnic, and it’s only 10 miles from the city.
Family fun: The best things to do in Peterborough for kids
Nene Valley Railway
Catch a glimpse into some of the UK’s most fascinating railway heritage at Nene Valley Railway on your visit to Peterborough. This amazing steam railway covers stations in and around the city, giving visitors the chance to experience the thrill of riding on a steam engine.
At the main station base in Wansford, facilities include the Turntable café and shop, plus accessible toilets within the station building. Perfect for families, Nene Valley hosts regular special events alongside a standard travel calendar throughout the year. Dogs are welcome on most services too, so your pooch won’t miss out on the fun!
Peterborough Lido
Ideal for cooling down on a hot summer afternoon, Peterborough Lido is an original, art deco open-air swimming pool. With three different heated pools to choose from, you can either stick to the shallows or dive deeper into the larger, 50-metre pool to swim some lengths.
Ferry Meadows at Nene Park
A visit to Nene Park is one of the best things to do in Peterborough, for kids and adults alike. Alongside thousands of acres of parkland to explore, there’s a huge offering of Pay and Play activities at Nene Outdoors. Plus, it’s easy to get to this natural beauty spot after a short bus journey from Peterborough train station.
Whether you’re feeling courageous enough to hire a kayak or you’d prefer to cruise on a stand up paddle board, there are plenty of water sports options at Nene Park. Or, if you just fancy a gentle stroll and a coffee, why not stop at Lakeside Café on your way through?
Outdoor activities in and around Peterborough
If you’re travelling with an active bunch and you’d like to explore, there are also plenty of outdoor activities and adventurous things to do around Peterborough and surrounding villages.
Sacrewell Farm
Just under ten miles from Peterborough city centre, Sacrewell Farm makes a great choice for a fun-filled family day out, particularly if you love animals. With regular events showcasing local produce and the best of rural Cambridgeshire, why not check what’s on at Sacrewell before exploring the indoor play barn?
Flag Fen
If you find archaeology and history exciting, Flag Fen is well worth a visit. Set amid a distinctive landscape dating back to the Bronze Age, at Flag Fen visitors can marvel at the timber causeway and platform constructed over 3,500 years ago.
Discover Peterborough with Thameslink
You won’t be short of things to do in Peterborough, no matter who you’re travelling with. Ditch the traffic and book train tickets with Thameslink today. However far you’re going, we’re with you for the journey.