So, you’re heading to Peterborough? Whether you’re only going for a day or you’ve got a longer stay on the cards, planning any trip for the whole family can be tricky. Luckily, an exceptional array of indoor and outdoor attractions means there’s something for everyone in this lively cathedral city.
If you’re ready to get organised now, read on to find out more about what’s going on in Peterborough – then use our journey planner to book your train tickets with Thameslink today.
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.
Ideas for a romantic weekend in Peterborough
If you’re off on a trip without the children, there are more than just a handful of surprisingly fun things for adults to do in Peterborough.
Peterborough Cathedral
Peterborough Cathedral is one of the most dramatic, impressive buildings in the East of England. 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.
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.
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.