As I whizzed from London to Peterborough on my Thameslink train, in under an hour and a half, the skyscrapers had given way to fields, farms, and rolling hills. Peterborough might technically be a city, but it’s compact with an easy-going vibe that feels a million miles from the hectic pace of London.
Once in the city, I took a stroll into the centre to see the magnificent cathedral, with a history stretching over 1,400 years. The surrounding limestone buildings, such as the charming Guildhall, were so photogenic I couldn’t resist snapping a few pics. After a quick pitstop for a coffee and a slice of lemon cake at the quirky MD Coffee (part coffee shop, part bohemian gift shop), it was time for the main event: a day out discovering Peterborough’s natural side.
I wasn’t in Peterborough for a taste of city life (but it would be a shame to miss it entirely!) I’d planned a day all around hidden gems and nature.
Did you know Peterborough is surrounded by green spaces, including the 2,535-acre haven that is Nene Park? With the River Nene winding its way through the city, you’re never far from a scenic walk or peaceful lakeside spot. It’s a lovely place to visit as a family, with lots of wholesome outdoor activities on offer.
Visiting Railworld Wildlife Haven
From the city centre, I strolled about 15 minutes south along the river paths to Railworld Wildlife Haven. This is an interesting spot for adults and children alike. The train-themed attraction blends railway nostalgia with environmental conservation. One moment you’re strolling through archways made from trees, passing ponds and waterfalls, the next you’re stumbling across a piece of rail history!
There are several model railways zipping around miniature tracks, making little ones giddy with excitement, but delighting us adults too! It’s a sanctuary for wildlife, birds and insects. I even passed several bug hotels and bee hives – just another element of the attraction’s dedication to the environment.
Railworld Wildlife Haven is run by enthusiastic volunteers, who adore sharing stories about the items on display. One volunteer showed me the live signal box, where I could track the local trains in real-time!
The most intriguing exhibit is the RTV 31 Hovertrain, a 1960s creation which was designed to use air-cushion technology. Essentially, a train that hovered over a track… like something from a movie! Unfortunately, the project became too expensive and the idea was scrapped. It’s still amazing to see inventions like this in person, and great for kids to appreciate the many steps it’s taken to create our current transport system!
It’s worth noting that Railworld isn’t open every day, so I’d recommend checking the website before planning your trip. Ticket prices are very reasonable. Tickets are good value for money – £4 for adults, £2 for kids, and free for under-1s.
Visiting Nene Park
Starting to feel peckish, I wrapped up my visit and headed to my next outdoor location, Nene Park. It’s a little way, so I’d recommend hopping on the Number 1 bus towards Orton, embarking at The Cherry Tree stop and getting off at Five Arches. From here, you’re a short walk from the park’s entrance.
Nene Park is vast, so comfortable trainers are a must. The park is divided into six areas, each with different attractions:
- Ferry Meadows: Perfect for families, with water activities, playgrounds, cafes and visitor centre.
- Thorpe Meadows: Home to the Sculpture Garden and a rowing lake.
- Orton Meadows: Home to Nene Golf and Pitch & Putt.
- Orton Mere: Home to lakes, parkland and Nene Valley Railway Station.
- Woodston Reach: Woodland area to the east of Orton Mere.
- The Rural Estate: Agricultural region dotted with picturesque villages.
Lunch in Ferry Meadows
It’d be impossible to see all of this in a day, so I’d recommend focusing on Ferry Meadows and Thorpe Meadows. I had a tasty lunch overlooking the water at Lakeside Kitchen and Bar in Ferry Meadows. It’s a lovely spot, with a boardwalk overlooking Gunwade Lake (where the water activities take place). The menu has something for everyone: brunch classics, sandwiches, wraps, burgers and a kids menu too.
If you fancy getting out on the water, you can hire pedalos, kayaks and paddle boards in the warmer months from Nene Outdoors. The giant swan pedalos are always a hit with little ones. There are three large playgrounds in Ferry Meadows too, designed for children of all ages. I loved how they were made from natural materials, blending seamlessly with the natural landscapes.
Exploring Ferry Meadows
After lunch, I wandered through Ferry Meadows, in awe of the natural beauty and tranquillity of the place. There are several trails connecting the green spaces, lakes, playgrounds and forests.
The Gunwade Trail is a great option for families. The 4 km loop (1 hour approximately) takes you around Gunwade Lake. Meanwhile, the Bluebell Trail heads to the north of the park, and is a magical place when the bluebells flower in April and May.
I made my own route, from Gunwade Lake to Lynch Lake, then over Ham Bridge towards Orton Mere and Peterborough Yacht Club.
Along the way I saw rabbits, birds, swans (and their gorgeously fluffy cygnets!) and lots of plants and trees. The signage in Nene Park is brilliant, with wildlife info and maps at every turn. Wildlife lovers will adore the area around Heron Meadows. Sightings there include kestrels, oyster catchers, sandpipers, grass snakes, toads and newts.
Art in Ferry Meadows
Keep your eyes peeled, and not just for wildlife! Dotted throughout Ferry Meadows are several sculptures. I particularly liked the wooden owl carved inside a tree close to Overton Lake. Bird in Flight’s abstract structure looked like a creature taking off by the lake. Meanwhile, Pyramid, an abstract sculpture by John Maine, was particularly striking, made from huge slabs of Portland stone.
Active families will love exploring Nene Park. It’s one of the best places in the region to cycle. I saw plenty of people enjoying the peaceful trails and lake views on two wheels. The paths are well-maintained, making them buggy-friendly too.
If you’re a train loving family (which I think most are!) you could book a trip on the Ferry Meadows Miniature Railway. The small train passes between Overton and Gunwade Station, and is a fun way to explore the park. The carriages have different accessibility options too, including a special carriage designed for wheelchairs. In general, the railway runs at weekends and in the school holidays, so check the website before your visit.
After spending a few hours meandering around Ferry Meadows, I followed the waterways to Thorpe Meadows. It takes around 30 minutes from the outer edge of Ferry Meadows to reach this spot, passing alongside Peterborough Yacht Club.
One of my quirkiest discoveries was Under, a live events space covered in bold murals, under the Nene Flyover. Peterborough really is full of surprises!
Peterborough Sculpture Garden
I had a big reason for visiting Thorpe Meadows. For a stroll through Peterborough Sculpture Garden, where large artworks sit amongst the trees. There are 13 permanent artworks in total and I loved how you just wander along the trails, stumbling across them. Each one has a plaque sharing the story behind the piece. Kids can run in and around some of them – they’re definitely designed to be interacted with.
Also located in Thorpe Meadows is a rowing and canoeing course and café Origin8. I’d recommend stopping for a coffee or an ice cream, before wrapping up your day in Peterborough.
From here, it’ll take you around 25 minutes to walk to Peterborough Station for your train home.
Peterborough might be known for its cathedral and city centre, but it’s the nature that really surprised me. In just over an hour from London, you can be lakeside, surrounded by birdsong, sculptures and paddle boards. To the city’s residents, these spots may not be hidden gems, but if you’re from further afield, they’re definitely worthy of a day out by train. It’s the kind of day out that offers as much for little ones as grown-ups.
Tips for visiting Peterborough by train
- Book ahead: Pre-book your train tickets via the Thameslink website. There are some amazing deals, including Advance tickets.
- Railcard savings: If you’re travelling as a family, purchase a Family and Friends Railcard before your trip. It gives you 1/3 off Standard Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak and Advance tickets for up to 4 adults and 60% off for up to 4 kids aged between 5 and 15 download the Thameslink app for a quick and easy way to purchase your railcard.
- Research opening days: If you’re planning to visit Railworld Wildlife Haven, check it will be open on the day of your trip. Railworld is a very easy place to reach from Peterborough Station - just a 20-minute walk.
- Book water activities: If you or your children want to take part in water activities in Ferry Meadows, contact Nene Outdoors in advance to check availability.
- Seasonal activities: Remember some attractions are seasonal - especially trains and water activities.
- Weather: Check the weather before your trip. You’ll want to wear suitable footwear and you might need to pack drinks, snacks, suncream, an umbrella or rain jacket.
About the author
Chloe Gunning-Sherifi - Award-winning content creator and travel blogger.
With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind the award-winning travel blog Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and feasting in Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. She’s hugely passionate about sharing places closer to home too, using the train network to explore destinations around the UK.