Whether you’re visiting the area or just looking for an entertaining way to spend the weekend, there are many fun things to do in Peterborough.
With a historic cathedral, a large country park, and plenty of options for entertainment like bowling and ice skating, there’s something to keep everyone occupied in this city.
To help decide what to do when you visit, we’ve put together this blog of the most fun things to do in Peterborough.
1. Go bowling
Going bowling is an activity that’s fun for the whole family, or group of friends, as well as being one of the best things to do in Peterborough for couples.
Hollywood Bowl offers the best place to go ten-pin bowling in Peterborough, with 20 lanes and even a private VIP area to make for an even more special visit.
An American-style diner and bar serve all the refreshments you could want, and a range of arcade games and pool tables mean you can have a lot of fun once you’ve finished at your lane.
2. Visit Peterborough Cathedral
In the heart of Peterborough, the impressive Norman Cathedral dates back to 654AD and is a spectacular sight worth seeing.
Entry to the cathedral is free, so it’s definitely worth visiting, and you can learn a lot about this incredible building that holds a lot of history, such as being the burial place of two queens.
Even if you’re not so interested in the history, simply taking a trip to the cathedral to admire the amazing architecture is a fun thing to do, and the cathedral square is one of the most serene places in the city to hang out.
3. Travel on the Nene Valley Railway
One of the best things to do in Peterborough for families is to book a ride on the Nene Valley Railway, one of the standout attractions in the city.
Travelling on this steam train makes for a fun day out, and you can travel from Peterborough to Yarwell to see some of the surrounding countryside.
As part of the trip out, you can get off at one of the stops for refreshments, such as at one of the local pubs.
4. Spend time at Nene Park
Nene Park is one of the most popular locations in Peterborough for people to spend time and unwind, with a range of areas to discover and activities to try out.
At less than three miles from the city centre, Ferry Meadows is at the heart of Nene Park and offers the perfect place to spend hours, whether by yourself or as part of a group.
There are plenty of paths if you’re looking for routes to walk or cycle, or you can try a range of watersports on the lakes. For refreshments, there are a couple of cafes where you can get a drink and relax.
5. Go to Flag Fen
For families looking for a day out near Peterborough, look no further than Flag Fen. This archaeological site is guaranteed to provide a fun time, no matter your age.
Flag Fen is famous for its ancient Bronze Age archaeology, with a reconstructed roundhouse and a family-friendly walking trail.
Kids can also take part in the Big Dig, and experience what it’s like to excavate back through history, from Roman times and all the way back to the Bronze Age.
6. Visit Sacrewell Farm
Located close to Peterborough, one of the best places to visit is Sacrewell Heritage Farm and Country Centre, which has plenty to offer for a fun day out.
Along with seeing an 18th-century working watermill, you can also meet the local animals, including some rare breeds of farm animals and smaller creatures like rabbits and guinea pigs.
There’s also a range of old farming equipment you can see around the site, and if you’re lucky you can even see the resident woodcarver at work in his workshop.
7. Play mini golf
One of the more classic fun things to do in Peterborough is to play a round of mini golf, and Puttstars in the city centre is one of the best places for it.
With three different 9-hole courses to try, with a range of difficulty but always guaranteeing a lot of fun, it’s easy for time to pass quickly when you’re here.
There’s also a bar at the venue that serves a range of drinks and tasty food, so you can get all the refreshments you need.
8. Go ice skating
For something different, why not put your skates on and take to the ice by making a visit to Planet Ice in Peterborough?
You can book sessions and spend a couple of hours on ice, which is always fun no matter your ability or who you’re going with.
If you prefer, you can also take lessons at Planet Ice. Or, there’s also a bar so there’s always the option to grab a drink and rest in the middle of your visit.
9. Head to Inflata Nation
In Peterborough, Inflata Nation is one of the most enjoyable activities around, offering a theme park experience brimming with inflatable courses, equipment, and entertainment.
Exciting inflatable assault courses, playful ball pits, and various slides and zones await your visit. With a diverse range of options, both children and adults can find plenty of engaging things to do and stay entertained.
For those seeking a kid-friendly activity, exclusive sessions for younger children are available at specific times during the week, making it a perfect option to keep the little ones entertained.
10. Have a day out at Burghley House
Burghley House is one of the top things to do near Peterborough for anyone in need of something to do, and for good reason.
Nestled in the charming town of Stamford, just a quick drive away from the city, this stunning stately home boasts numerous captivating rooms and exhibits to explore inside, making it one of the best day trips from Peterborough.
In addition, the surrounding grounds provide an idyllic backdrop for a family walk, offering the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and soak up the scenery.
