10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Peterborough (2026)

Peterborough Cathedral is one of the city's most recognisable landmarks.

Its history goes back to the early medieval period, and the present cathedral is known for its Norman architecture and striking west front.

Inside, visitors can explore the building's history, including its connections to Katharine of Aragon, who is buried here.

The cathedral is also a working place of worship, so visitor access can change during services and events.

What can you do?

• Explore the cathedral's interior and architecture.
• Learn about its history.
• Visit the grounds and Cathedral Square.
• Look for the monuments and historical features.
• Take photographs where photography is permitted.

The cathedral currently describes visitor entry as by donation. Some organised tours and special events have separate charges.

Useful tip: Combine the cathedral with a walk through Cathedral Square and the surrounding historic streets.

Official information: Peterborough Cathedral visitor opening times .

Peterborough Museum is a useful option when the weather rules out a park visit.

The museum occupies a historic building on Priestgate, close to the city centre.

Its collections cover Peterborough's history, archaeology, natural environment and local culture.

You can explore permanent galleries and learn how the city developed over time.

Why visit?

The museum brings together subjects that appeal to different ages.

Children can learn about local history through exhibits, while adults can explore collections connected to the wider region.

It is also a useful place to visit before exploring historical attractions around Peterborough.

What does it cost?

General admission is free.

However, special event days and certain exhibitions may require paid tickets.

The published standard opening days are Tuesday to Saturday. Check opening times before visiting.

Official information: Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery .

Ferry Meadows is one of Peterborough's main outdoor destinations.

The park includes lakes, grassland, woodland, walking routes and areas for family activities.

You can spend an hour walking around the lakes or stay longer with a picnic.

Free activities at Ferry Meadows

• Walk around the park's lakes and paths.
• Watch birds and other wildlife.
• Explore the woodland and open spaces.
• Bring a picnic.
• Follow a walking or cycling route.
• Enjoy the scenery throughout the year.

Some organised activities, equipment hire and events cost extra.

How much is parking?

Nene Park Trust's published parking charges include:

The daily charges rise for longer visits.

Entry to the park itself is free, so visitors arriving without a car can enjoy the main outdoor spaces without paying an admission charge.

Useful tip: Check the park map before visiting. Ferry Meadows covers a large area, and different entrances serve different facilities.

Official information: Ferry Meadows, Nene Park .

Flag Fen is an archaeological site that tells the story of life in the Peterborough area thousands of years ago.

The site is known for its Bronze Age archaeology, including the remains of an ancient timber causeway.

Visitors can explore reconstructed prehistoric features and learn about the people who lived in the landscape long before modern Peterborough existed.

Standard admission prices in 2026

A family ticket can reduce the cost for eligible groups compared with buying separate tickets.

Flag Fen normally operates different opening schedules in summer and winter. The published November-to-February schedule is Friday to Sunday, 10am–4pm.

Special festivals and events may use separate tickets.

Official information: Flag Fen Archaeology Park .

Central Park is close to Peterborough's city centre and offers an outdoor space that doesn't require an admission ticket.

The park includes children's play facilities, gardens and areas for sport and recreation.

Peterborough City Council identifies several features, including:

• Children's play areas.
• A sandpit.
• A sunken garden.
• A sensory garden.
• Sports facilities.

What about the paddling pool?

Central Park has a seasonal paddling pool.

In 2026, the council operated it from 7 July to 30 August, with free entry during its published opening sessions.

That season has ended. Dates for a future season should be checked with the council rather than assumed.

Useful tip: Central Park is suited to a shorter local outing or a picnic. You do not need to plan a full-day attraction visit.

Official information: Peterborough parks and open spaces .

Bretton Park offers open grass areas, walking space and children's play facilities.

It is an option for residents on the northern and western sides of Peterborough who want an outdoor activity closer to home.

Families can use the park for walking, playing or spending time outside without paying an entry fee.

Bretton Water Park

The park also has a seasonal water-play facility.

Peterborough City Council confirmed free access during its 2026 summer opening period, which ended in August.

The water attraction is not a year-round facility. Check its operating status before planning a visit.

The wider park remains useful beyond the summer water-play season.

Official information: Peterborough City Council — pools and water parks .

Cuckoo's Hollow is one of Peterborough's smaller local nature spaces.

It has a lake, footpaths and places to watch birds around the water.

Unlike larger attractions, you do not need to plan a long visit.

It can be a practical choice for a short walk or a quiet afternoon outdoors.

What makes it different?

Cuckoo's Hollow sits within a residential neighbourhood, but the lake and surrounding vegetation create a different setting from the nearby streets.

The area provides habitat for water birds and other wildlife.

Bring suitable footwear when the ground is wet. Keep children away from unsafe water edges and observe wildlife without disturbing it.

Useful tip: If you live in Werrington, this is a local place worth knowing about before travelling across the city for a walk.

Local information: Cuckoo's Hollow — How Are You Peterborough? .

The Embankment is a large riverside green space beside the River Nene.

It is within walking distance of central Peterborough and offers open views across the river and surrounding grounds.

Visitors can walk, relax or spend time outside without paying for a ticket.

The area is also used for events at different times of year. Those events may have separate admission charges.

Important 2026 access update

Construction of Cygnet Bridge began in 2026. The project is intended to create a new pedestrian and cycling connection between Fletton Quays and the Embankment.

The council has reported temporary footpath closures and signed diversions during construction.

Check the current access arrangements before choosing a route.

Official information: Peterborough's Cygnet Bridge project .

Peterborough has a network of cycling routes connecting neighbourhoods, open spaces and nearby villages.

You don't need to book a guided tour to explore them.

Peterborough City Council publishes free leisure route guides and cycle maps.

Its suggested routes include areas such as Castor, Marholm, Etton, Helpston, Werrington and Farcet.

The published leisure routes range from approximately 7 to 16 miles.

How to plan a low-cost cycling day

1. Choose a route that suits your fitness and experience.
2. Download the council's route map.
3. Check road conditions and any path closures.
4. Take water, a puncture-repair kit and suitable clothing.
5. Follow the route at your own pace.

Some routes use quiet roads rather than dedicated off-road paths. Families should choose routes that suit their cycling ability.

Official information: Peterborough City Council cycling routes .

A library can provide more than a place to borrow books.

Peterborough's public library network offers services that may include children's story sessions, reading groups, digital resources, craft activities and access to computers.

You can find libraries in neighbourhoods including Hampton, Werrington, Bretton, Orton, Dogsthorpe, Stanground, Thorney and Woodston.

Availability varies by branch, so check the activity timetable.

Central Library relocation in 2026

Peterborough City Council has announced that Central Library on Broadway will close on 30 October 2026 for refurbishment.

A temporary Northminster Library is scheduled to open at Northminster House on 9 November 2026.

Other branches remain available during the transition.

This makes checking the latest location particularly important for anyone planning a city-centre library visit.

Official information: Peterborough Libraries and Archives .