Peterborough: Cathedral, Museum and Nene Valley Railway

Peterborough combines Norman architecture and museum collections with a historic railway. The cathedral, museum, railway and varied park routes offer different ways to enjoy your stay. When planning, it is worth distinguishing between cultural attractions, a historic railway connection and routes of varying lengths.

Cathedral and Museum

Peterborough Cathedral is one of the most remarkable Norman cathedrals in Europe. It is the burial place of two queens; the tomb of Catherine of Aragon continues to draw many visitors. The collections at Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery span more than 150 million years of local history, environment and culture. They include a collection of Jurassic marine reptiles, including ichthyosaurs, pliosaurs and plesiosaurs. Displays may change. The museum also offers Tiny Tots, with sensory play as well as songs, games and stories; programme details may also change.

Railworld Wildlife Haven offers another perspective on the city. This volunteer-run visitor attraction in Peterborough combines wildlife habitats with model railways. The site was created by transforming a disused coal yard into an urban green space with ponds and waterfalls. Here, railway models and a carefully designed wildlife habitat come together.

A Historic Railway Connection

The Nene Valley Railway is a heritage steam railway between Peterborough and Wansford. It also connects Peterborough with Ferry Meadows, Orton Mere and Yarwell. The railway preserves a rural branch line that was once part of the national rail network, along with historic stations, locomotives, carriages and traditional railway craftsmanship. If you are planning a journey, check operating days and station access in advance, as services and access to stations may change.

Walks and Scenery in the Nene Valley

Nene Park encompasses lakes, riverbanks, meadows, woodland, wetlands and open countryside. Walking options range from circular routes around lakes and woodland trails to riverside paths and longer routes between different areas of the park. The Walking in Time programme comprises four self-guided walks exploring the park’s heritage and the landscape of the lower Nene Valley, west of Peterborough. This gives you a choice of different types of route, including one walk specifically focused on the history of the park.

The Three Lakes Trail is a circular route that starts and ends at Ferry Meadows and takes around 50 minutes to an hour. Also at Ferry Meadows, the Bluebell Wood Boardwalk follows the river; the route has step-free access, although conditions may vary seasonally. Entry to Nene Park on foot or by bicycle is free, while parking and activities incur charges. Access arrangements and fees may change; check the terms before your visit.

Cycling and Getting Around

Two routes of distinctly different lengths are available for cycling: the four-mile Family Trail is a circular route in Ferry Meadows, starting at Lakeside. The Green Wheel is 45 miles long, encircles Peterborough and passes through historic Fens and the surrounding countryside. The comparison highlights the difference between a ride in the park and a route around the city. If you are planning a specific ride, check the route details; for the Green Wheel, you should also consult maps and conditions.

Peterborough railway station is in the city centre; Peterborough also has an extensive bus network throughout the city. If you plan to use a specific bus service, check the current routes and operators in advance, as these may change.

Discover more destinations: Peterborough, Ufford, Wansford, Helpston, Northborough, Barnack, Norfolk, Suffolk.

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