Discover
Peterborough History Visitor attractions
Days out
Shopping Visitor Guide
Great events
2013
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History in every era The big event city Shopping and city markets Cafes, restaurants and nightlife For all the family 2013 events calendar A green city Accommodation Getting around in Peterborough Travelling to Peterborough City centre map
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Contents
Welcome to
Peterborough Welcome to the 2013 Peterborough Visitor Guide. It’s full of information about how you can discover more about one of the UK’s fastest-growing, greenest and most historical cities.
Peterborough regularly attracts praise from UK and overseas visitors as being a fantastic place to visit – combining a wide range of visitor attractions, a modern city centre with excellent shopping facilities and a picturesque network of walking and cycle routes. The city is awash with history. Explore Flag Fen, Britain’s most significant Bronze Age site, while one of the world’s finest Norman cathedrals watches over the city. Every year all aspects of Peterborough’s past come alive during our Heritage Festival. Peterborough city centre offers shopping at designer stores, high street brands and unique independents – all set off perfectly by a rejuvenated Cathedral Square which combines modern elegance with stunning heritage. Queensgate Shopping Centre will satisfy all shopaholics and nights out in the city offer superb restaurants and bars. Peterborough’s vision is to create the UK’s Environment Capital through sustainable development and the city has some of the finest green spaces in the region. A beautiful country park offers walks, views and water sports, while the Green Wheel cycle route encompasses the whole city. Peterborough is just 50 minutes by train from London King’s Cross, making it easily accessible by rail as well as by road with the A1 motorway just minutes away from the city centre.
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History in every era
The city’s history stretches back over 10,000 years. Peterborough has more than a thousand listed buildings and 60 scheduled ancient monuments - the city is proudly linked to every era of British history.
Peterborough Cathedral has been voted as one of the top ten landmarks in the country. Katharine of Aragon, the first wife of Henry VIII, is buried within this grand building. The original wooden ceiling survives in the nave, making it one of the rarest examples of its kind in Europe. The cathedral hosts various tours to schools and groups. There are daily services and a charming tearoom will give you time to relax and soak up the peaceful cathedral setting on a warm summer’s day. www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk Peterborough Museum runs regular guided walks around the city – often in period costume! Find out about the life of a Peterborough monk or the ghosts that are still said to haunt the streets. www.vivacity-peterborough.com
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Peterborough’s seventeenth century Guildhall sits beside Cathedral Square in the heart of the city centre. The Guildhall is often used to stage events from and was once the home to the city’s butter and poultry markets. For information about the city centre events programme, go to www.visitpeterborough.com or telephone the Visitor Information Centre (01733) 452336.
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Powered by steam the Nene Valley Railway runs for more than seven miles and although it has bigger engines, to most visitors, the railway’s biggest attraction is Thomas the Engine. Services run throughout the year including Santa Trust e Preservation Specials. www.nvr.org.uk Burghley Hous ©
Burghley House offers a unique glimpse into the world of the first Elizabethan age. There are 18 state rooms with splendid interiors and its gardens and parklands were designed by ‘Capability’ Brown. The Garden of Surprises, built in 2007, has mirrors, water and sculptures for the whole family to enjoy. www.burghley.co.uk Flag Fen is one of the most important archaeological sites in Britain. See how people lived more than 3,000 years ago by exploring its recreated hamlet of Bronze and Iron Age dwellings, set within 37 acres of wild fenland. www.vivacity-peterborough.com
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.com Longthorpe Tower is a truly rare example of a medieval tower house. Visit the tower to see one of the most important displays of 14 century wall paintings in northern Europe. Just over the county boundary lies the beautiful Prebendal Manor House. Dating from 1200, it is Grade I listed and the oldest dwelling house in Northamptonshire. www.prebendal-manor.co.uk Bronze Age settlers and Viking invaders are just the tip of what you can discover in Peterborough and at certain times of the year they come back for real! The Peterborough Heritage Festival, organised by Vivacity Culture and Leisure, takes place at the end of June. Held in the historic heart of the city centre and the stunning surroundings of the Cathedral precincts, the 2013 Peterborough Heritage Festival guarantees a plethora of activities to bring our past to life! This year’s themed displays focus on inventions and the history of science. There will also be hundreds of costumed re-enactors, from Roman soldiers through to wartime airmen, in living history displays around the historic Cathedral Precincts. The festival also includes fringe events from mid June, including guided walks, lectures, talks, activities, and even a heritage pub quiz. Peterborough Museum underwent a multi-million pound facelift in 2012, which included the addition of numerous new galleries and breathtaking exhibitions. Stay and play in the family friendly museum all day, with lunch in the inviting café and hands-on fun throughout.
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Vivacity offer unlimited entry to Peterborough Museum, Flag Fen and Longthorpe Tower with an Annual Heritage Pass that also includes free entry to selected exhibitions and events. For details visit www.vivacity-peterborough.com
Also visit…… John Clare Cottage in the village of Helpston, between Stamford and Peterborough. The cottage is the home of John Clare (1793-1864) who is regarded as one of the greatest of the English poets. www.clarecottage.org The Norman Cross Art Gallery - situated in the unique setting of the former prisoner of war depot of Norman Cross. During the Napoleonic wars, 7,000 French prisoners were held on this site. www.normancrossgallery.com St John the Baptist Church - located in the heart of the city centre - is the official parish church of Peterborough. The 600 year-old church is also a great place to have a cup of coffee, attend its various services and events and enjoy a bite to eat. www.peterborough-stjohns.org.uk
The
big event city
Peterborough has a proud association with successfully staging and attracting major events that are enjoyed by visitors from all over the UK and abroad. Last year the city welcomed the Olympic Torch Relay, hosted one of the biggest music festivals in Europe and one of the fastest half marathons in the country. In 2013 the events programme is another big one‌ Regular train services can get you from London King’s Cross in just 50 minutes, so you can get right up close to all the action. Peterborough also has an extensive range of top hotels in the city centre, which will make your stay all the more comfortable and relaxing.
Greatest run in the east!
The Perkins Great Eastern Run has been growing in size and reputation since it was reintroduced into the city’s sporting calendar in 2006. Last year the event attracted more than 5,500 competitors who ran the half marathon, fun run and wheelchair race. Entries came in from all over the UK and overseas with runners travelling from Italy, France, Sweden, America, Hong Kong and Kenya. The route is one of the flattest half marathons in the country and it 6
is also one of the quickest, regularly clocking a finish time within the top five fastest races in the UK. Best of all, entry to the event is competitively priced and runners are also able to soak up the modern and historical surroundings of the city centre, which forms part of the route. Very few UK half marathons can boast a section in a scenic city centre!
The 2013 Perkins Great Eastern Run will take place on Sunday 13 October. To enter, visit www.perkinsgreateasternrun.co.uk
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The summer Peterborough Arts Festival, organised by Vivacity Culture and Leisure, always provides an experience that is not to be missed. From the opening city centre weekend, building up to the grand festival finale in Central Park, theatre, music, dance and more is hosted in a variety of locations across the city. www.vivacity-peterborough.com The Willow Festival took place in Peterborough a decade ago and it made a welcome return in 2012 when more than 50,000 people attended the three-day event. This free live music festival is one of the biggest in Europe and runs from 12 to 14 July on the city’s Embankment. It promotes the best unsigned bands and performers in the UK. All tastes will be catered for with more than 120 bands on the bill. www.willowfestival.org.uk
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Visitors to the city centre on 21 and 22 September will experience a taste of La Dolce Vita when the Peterborough Italian Festival makes its mark. The city’s established Italian Community Association team up with Peterborough City Council to organise the festival, which regularly attracts thousands of people from across the region including the majority of Peterborough’s 10,000-strong Italian population!
Previously celebrity chefs Antonio Carluccio and Gino D’Acampo have headlined the entertainment, which brings together people to enjoy a day of Italian culture with food and wine tasting, music, singing, flag dancing, cars, Vespa’s, Lambretta’s and much more.
Christmas is always a special time in Peterborough. The city centre is transformed with elaborate and stylish Christmas lights and decorations that capture the festive cheer and seasonal spirit of the city. The eagerly awaited Christmas Lights Switch On (16 November) event creates a joyful atmosphere for shoppers and visitors throughout the day until early evening when the lights are flicked on with a burst of fireworks in front of crowds in excess of 6,000 people. This is truly an event not to be missed! 8
Shopping
Peterborough’s modern city centre offers the total shopping experience from top designer brands to unique independent retailers and high street favourites. The city’s lively market is where you can get some of the best deals in Peterborough while a farmers’ market and various continental markets are held regularly in the city centre.
and
city markets
Queensgate Shopping Centre boasts more than 90 stores, including favourites like John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, Next and H&M. Elsewhere shops and cafés are set around Cathedral Square with its fountains and views of the towering Cathedral.
Farmers’ and continental markets often bring their tasty produce from across the region and overseas to tempt shoppers in Cathedral Square. Popular choices for shoppers are the Italian market held at various times throughout the year on Long Causeway and the Moroccan Berber market in Cathedral Square in the lead-up to Christmas. The city’s open-covered market has more than 150 stalls including a food hall and is a friendly place to come and shop and get a good deal. You can find stalls selling fresh local fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, clothing, furniture and there’s much more including a cobbler and a barber. The market can be found just off Laxton Square in Peterborough city centre. It is open Tuesday to Saturday from 8.30am to 4pm.
Recent additions to the city centre include Primark and Carluccio’s, which complement the recently established Nando’s, Patisserie Valerie and TK Maxx. Further indoor shopping can be found at the Rivergate Shopping Centre, just a short walk from the Town Hall.
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Outside of the city centre, Serpentine Green is home to a major supermarket alongside numerous high street brands. While the Peterborough Garden Park hosts a large Van Hage garden centre as well as a range of other popular stores.
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Cafés, restaurants and nightlife Peterborough has fantastic eateries, relaxing cafes and bustling nightspots where you can finish your day in style. The city has a superb range of fine restaurants, some of which have been established for more than 30 years. Peterborough’s culinary scene prides itself on the strength of its independent restaurants which truly reflect the city’s multiculturalism. There’s a wide variety available with Italian, Greek, Thai, Indian, Mexican, Cantonese, Portuguese, Polish, Lithuanian and English eateries to choose from. There are plenty of places to sit down and watch the world go by in Peterborough city centre.
The heart of the city has a continental, café culture feel with a vast selection of coffee shops to wile away the hours and a several traditional tearooms for a spot of afternoon tea. Peterborough has two theatre venues that bring a variety of entertainment and culture to the city. The Key Theatre offers something for everyone including comedy, drama, music and fringe theatre, not forgetting its much-loved family pantomime. Find out what’s on at www.vivacity-peterborough.com 10
Home to the country’s second biggest beer festival, you will not be surprised to discover there are a number of excellent places to have a swift half or a trendy cocktail in the evening. Choose from modern bars, traditional English pubs or even have a pint on a converted Dutch barge. The Cresset is a short drive from the city centre and showcases the best live music, comedy, theatre and shows for the whole family. Find out what’s on at www.cresset.co.uk
Enjoy a family-friendly flutter at Peterborough Greyhound Stadium. Every week thousands of people soak up the exciting atmosphere and take advantage of their great value restaurant.
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Visitor Information Centre A wide range of items can be purchased from the Visitor Information Centre Including: Cresset Theatre tickets Key Theatre tickets Peterborough Arena, East of England Showground tickets
Whether you want to buy theatre, coach, rail or bus tickets, find out about local attractions or book a room for the night, you’ll find it all under one roof at Peterborough City Council’s Visitor Information Centre. It’s the one-stop shop for businesses, residents, shoppers and visitors to the city.
T ickets for Peterborough Cathedral events T ickets for Peterborough Male Voice Choir events Peterborough guided walk tickets Coach day trips A range of coach holidays
There is also a wide range of books written about the city and surrounding areas - and gift items to suit all ages and tastes. In addition, you can buy framed photographs and paintings plus city- branded merchandise including items from Peterborough United’s club shop range. Staff at the Visitor Information Centre are able to provide you with additional knowledge on all the attractions, events and destinations within the city including extra detail on numerous listings and information written in this guide. The centre also holds an extensive range of regional and national tourist information.
Train tickets
Address: Visitor Information Centre 9 Bridge Street, Peterborough PE1 1HJ
Senior railcards
Telephone: (01733) 452336
Book accommodation at a wide range of hotels, guest houses and campsites
Email: tic@peterborough.gov.uk
National Express tickets
Walking guides and maps
Website: www.visitpeterborough.com Open: Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 5pm
We Love Words Festival 20 to 28 September 2013
John Clare Cottage
The John Clare Cottage and Heritage Centre is the birthplace and family home of John Clare (the renowned romantic ‘peasant poet’) now open to the public. Visit our lovely arts and crafts shop and our relaxed cafe which specialises in homemade fayre, such as our delicious soups, cakes, and speciality cream teas. With magnificent surrounding countryside, our new gold-winning RHS Chelsea garden (installed by late Spring 2013), vibrant events calendar and a fascinating cottage to explore, there’s something for everyone at Clare Cottage.
Join us for the second year of this international literature and poetry festival featuring Michael Portillo, Germaine Greer, Simon Armitage and many more. There will be something for everyone to enjoy at this years We Love Words Festival. Contact The John Clare Cottage for further details. (01733) 253330 www.clarecottage.org
Clare Cottage 12 Woodgate, Helpston, Peterborough Cambridgeshire PE6 7ED (01733) 253330 www.clarecottage.org
For all the
family
Peterborough is the perfect place to bring the family. Packed with events throughout the year, there are opportunities to relax, play and even get wet!
In 1936 Peterborough’s art-deco Lido was built. The outdoor swimming on offer has been enjoyed by generations of city residents and the complex boasts three heated pools and a vast sunbathing terrace. It is open from the end of May to September. www.vivacity-peterborough.com
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Meet the majestic Shire horses and explore the working watermill at Sacrewell Farm and Country Centre. You can tour the farm by tractor, feed the animals and even try on some fashions from yesteryear in their timeline barn. www.sacrewell.org.uk The Peterborough Arena (East of England Showground) attracts more than 800,000 visitors a year to some of the biggest events in the region. There’s another packed programme for 2013 including the East of England Show, The Peterborough Festival of Antiques, BMF, Truckfest and Firework Fiesta. www.peterborougharena.com
Watersports
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Lakeside Leisure is based at Ferry Meadows Country Park and is ideal for novices and experts alike. Canadian canoes, kayaks, pedolos and rowing boats are all available for hire to be taken out on their 75 acre lake – you can even have a go at windsurfing. The centre is a recognised training centre and courses are available for all. www.lakesideleisure.com
Further afield
The Stamford Shakespeare Company presents an annual season of plays during June, July and August at the Rutland Open Air Theatre in the grounds of historic Tolethorpe Hall. A 600-seat indoor auditorium faces an open air stage set in an idyllic woodland glade. www.stamfordshakespeare.co.uk 13
2013 events calendar
You’ll never be short of finding anything to do and see in Peterborough this year. There’s a whole host of reasons to visit the city and here’s just a taste of some of the best reasons why. More information can found at www.visitpeterborough.com or by calling the Visitor Information Centre on (01733) 452336.
29 March to 14 April Big Bunny Hunt
Visit Sacrewell Farm and take part in the Big Bunny Hunt. There’s an event and activities every month until December including a sheep shearing weekend, milling and breadmaking, vintage bus rally and a teddy bear’s adventure picnic. www.sacrewell.org.uk or (01780) 782254.
Easter to October Longthorpe Tower
6 April Burghley Fine Food Market A celebration of local produce. Meet more than 20 local producers of cheese, bread, vegetables and meat. www.burghley.co.uk or (01780) 752451.
10 to 12 April Edwardian Costume Exhibition
The tower is a surviving part of a 14th century fortified Manor House and contains the finest set of medieval wall paintings in a domestic setting anywhere in Western Europe. www.vivacity-peterborough.com or (01733) 864663.
Celebrate Peterborough Museum’s Edwardian Costume Exhibition – La Belle Epoche – this Easter and discover the sights and sounds of Edwardian life. Put your skills to the test when you meet our Edwardian butler, enjoy a themed trail and much more family fun! www.vivacity-peterborough.com or (01733) 864663.
31 March Burghley Easter Egg Hunt
14 April Craft Fair - Ferry Meadows Country Park
Take part in this popular Easter egg hunt in the Gardens of Surprise at Burghley House. Follow the trail finding the families of chicks and once complete claim your chocolate egg. www.burghley.co.uk or (01780) 752451.
An opportunity to meet local artisans and buy their work. Every second Sunday of the month throughout summer. www.neneparktrust.org.uk (01733) 234193.
25 April Lay Clerks’ Recital A mixed song recital given by the Lay Clerks of Peterborough Cathedral Choir. www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk or (01733) 355315.
26 to 27 April The National Garden Railway Show Peterborough Arena, East of England Showground. www.16mm.org.uk
4 to 6 May Truckfest Peterborough Arena, East of England Showground. www.peterborougharena.com or (01733) 363500.
31 March to 1 April Nene Valley Railway - Easter Egg Hunt The search is on for hidden eggs around the railway station! There’s fun and activities for all the family right up until October. www.nvr.org.uk or (01780) 784444. 14
8 to 9 June Park Farm Vintage and Open Weekend Learn all about local farms and the work they do at Park Farm in Thorney. Find more about the food farmers eat the crops in the fields and preservation of our countryside. See farming history in action and experience high tech modern agriculture. Livestock including lambs also on show. www.parkfarmthorney.co.uk or (01733) 270298.
8 to 30 June Word in Frame An Exhibition of the Methodist Collection of Modern Christian Art. www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk or (01733) 355315.
17 to 19 May and 13 to 15 September BMF
9 June Kite Festival - Ferry Meadows Country Park
Peterborough Arena, East of England Showground. www.peterborougharena.com or (01733) 363500.
Flying demonstrations, stalls and activities. www.neneparktrust.org.uk (01733) 234193.
25 May to 2 June Peterborough Green Festival The festival showcases everything that is fun and exciting about being green. The city centre will be transformed with living art, food growing, cooking demos, crafts fair and fun and games for all the family. www.pect.org.uk or (01733) 866445.
26 May Living Heritage Game and Country Fair The Falconry Village includes a flying arena, indoor training arena, specialised trade stands, static displays, resident falconers plus guests and clubs. Equestrian demonstrations can be seen in the specialist arena. Food Glorious Food will showcase some of the best local and regional produce in the culinary market today. www.burghley.co.uk or (01780 752451).
15 June Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival Come and watch this Chinese tradition as it takes place on the River Nene in Peterborough city centre. www. dragonboatfestivals.co.uk/peterborough or (01780) 470718.
8 June Peterborough Cathedral Music Association
15 and 25 June Theatre in the Garden with the Pantaloons
Vaughan Williams Five Mystical Songs; Tippett Spirtuals from A Child of Our Time; Britten A Hymn to St Cecilia, Rejoice in the Lamb. www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk or (01733) 355315.
See Sherlock Holmes (15 June) and A Midsummer Night’s Dream on 25 June at Clare Cottage. Bring a picnic and something to sit on. www.clarecottage.org or (01733) 253330. 15
22 to 23 June Peterborough Heritage Festival
15 July Painting Day with Val Littlewood
Held in the historic heart of the city centre and the stunning surroundings of the Cathedral precincts, the 2013 Peterborough Heritage Festival guarantees a plethora of activities to bring our past to life! The festival also includes fringe events from 15 to 30 June, including guided walks, lectures, talks, activities, and even a heritage pub quiz. www.vivacity-peterborough.com or (01733) 864663.
Paint bees and flowers in Clare Cottage garden. Beginners welcome. www.clarecottage.org or (01733) 253330.
27 June Chess Valley Male Voice Choir Lunchtime Concert.
26 to 28 July Festival of the Forties
www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk or (01733) 355315.
5 to 7 July East of England Show A celebration of British farming and rural life with animal shows, live music and the best of the region’s produce on display. www.eastofengland.org.uk or (01733) 234451.
17 July Festival of Hunting Peterborough Arena, East of England Showground. www.peterborougharena.com or (01733) 363500.
Celebrate the 1940s with three days of big band entertainment, exhibiting and performances that capture the spirit of this memorable decade. www.1940sfest.org or (01733) 204353.
4 August BMC/BL Car Rally - Ferry Meadows Country Park Come along and see British cars on show. www.neneparktrust.org.uk (01733) 234193.
9 August Mini Beast Safari - Ferry Meadows Country Park No lions or tigers to be found on this safari but you will be surprised to find how many mini beasts live in Ferry Meadows. www.neneparktrust.org.uk (01733) 234193.
20 to 24 August Peterborough Beer Festival 6 July Battle Proms Concert One of the UKs premier picnic proms, offering an evening of soul stirring classical music. www.burghley.co.uk or (01780) 752451.
12 to 14 July The John Clare Festival. www.clarecottage.org or (01733) 253330.
12 to 14 July The Willow Festival One of Europe’s biggest music festivals returns after almost 50,000 visitors enjoyed last year’s three-day event. This free festival showcases the best unsigned music in the UK with more 120 bands on the bill. Held on Peterborough’s Embankment. www.willowfestival.org.uk 16
The biggest beer festival outside of London with more than 350 real ales, 80 ciders and perries and dozens of different wines on offer. Plenty of soft drinks, traditional pub games and live entertainment make this one of the city’s most popular events. Takes place on Peterborough’s Embankment. www.peterborough-camra.org.uk
25 August Burghley Fine Food Market A celebration of local produce. Stall holders will fill the courtyard at Burghley and sell local cheese, meat, bread, puddings and much more. www.burghley.co.uk or (01780) 752451.
4 September Walk in the Woods Ferry Meadows Country Park Learn about Bluebell Wood and Lynch Plantation on a guided walk with a park ranger Gary Mason. www.neneparktrust.org.uk (01733) 234193.
3 October National Poetry Day at Clare Cottage Create your own poem for this special event. www.clarecottage.org or (01733) 253330.
4 to 5 October Peterborough Festival of Antiques Peterborough Arena, East of England Showground. www.peterborougharena.com or (01733) 363500.
5 to 13 October Burghley Flower Festival 5 to 8 September The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials This is the premier equestrian and social event in the international sporting calendar and a focus for the best horses and riders in the world. www.burghley.co.uk or (01780) 752451.
During October the state rooms are transformed with beautiful floral displays created by local flower societies, offering a new perspective on England’s greatest Elizabethan House. www.burghley.co.uk or (01780) 752451.
28 October The Burghley Pumpkin Trail Pumpkin Trail around the Sculpture Garden. www.burghley.co.uk or (01780) 752451.
16 November Peterborough Christmas Lights Switch-on This eagerly awaited event creates a joyful atmosphere for shoppers and visitors throughout the day and into the evening. www.peterborough.gov.uk or (01733) 452336.
28 November Crafts For Christmas Find special presents for special people, the perfect place to work your way enjoyably through your Christmas list. www.burghley.co.uk or (01780) 752451.
14 December Christingle Service
21 to 22 September Peterborough Italian Festival This weekend event is organised by members of Peterborough’s 10,000 strong Italian community and the city council. Previous special guests have included Antonio Carluccio and Gino D’Acampo. Expect lost of food, singing, dancing, traditional flag throwing, fireworks and vino! www.peterborough.gov.uk or (01733) 452336.
The cathedral’s annual service for young children and families includes seasonal readings, carols and music performed by local school children. www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk or (01733) 355315.
19 December Business and Shoppers’ Carols A lunchtime opportunity to come and sing traditional Christmas Carols in the cathedral. www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk or (01733) 355315. 17
A
green city
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Peterborough’s vision is to create the UK’s Environment Capital through sustainable development and the city has some of the finest green spaces in the region. The city is well-known for its collection of beautifully landscaped green spaces, country parks and wild areas to explore. Residents enjoy one of the highest ratios of green space per head of population in the UK. Ferry Meadows Country Park is full of activities for the whole family and is the perfect place for a picnic, a relaxing walk or cycle ride through endless meadows, woodland and along the River Nene. There’s also horse-riding, fishing, sailing and boat trips for all to enjoy. www.neneparktrust.org.uk
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Peterborough’s Green Wheel is a network of cycle routes that circles the city with ‘spokes’ leading into the city centre. The Green Wheel provides more than 45 miles of continuous cycling, this shows off some of the beautiful countryside in and around Peterborough. www.pect.org.uk
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Peterborough parks
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The city has some of the finest parks in the country with our beautiful flower beds and wonderfully maintained green open spaces. Central Park is the jewel in the crown and holds a prestigious Green Flag award. Visitors can enjoy the sunken garden, a sensory garden, two play areas and a paddling pool. There’s also an aviary, bowling greens, tennis courts, a croquet lawn and the inviting Buttercross Tearooms that boasts some of the best homemade cakes and fresh coffee the city has to offer.
Peterborough Sculpture Trail
Peterborough Sculpture Trail displays works across the city from a wide range of artists including Antony Gormley, Sir Anthony Caro and John Maine. The city has many artworks that will inspire and delight. www.peterboroughsculpture.org
Golf courses
Peterborough’s gorgeous green spaces lend themselves to a selection of golf courses to perfect your putting on: Peterborough Milton Golf Club Elton Furze Golf Club Thorpe Wood Golf Course Orton Meadows Golf Course
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Accommodation
Peterborough prides itself in boasting quality accommodation from cosy cottages and friendly B&Bs, to fine hotels and well-equipped campsites.
Where will I be staying?
The serviced accommodation section has been divided into three sections:
C ity (within a 15 minute walk of
Hairdryers in bedrooms
Garden for the use of guests
Evening meals available
D isabled facilities but please check with hotel for details
S pecial diets can be catered for
the city centre)
Special rates for children
S urrounding area (within 5 miles
Ground floor bedrooms available
of the city centre)
V illages and townships (more than 5 miles from the city centre)
Key to accommodation Car parking Television Satellite/cable tv Telephone in room T ea/coffee making facilities in bedrooms
Family rooms available Licensed bar
Wi-fi access R adio in room
Additional symbols for selfcatering accommodation
No smoking
Electric cooker
Residents’ lounge
Gas cooker
Health/fitness facilities
Launderette
Swimming pool Conference facilities available
Microwave LF L F Linen provided for free
Passenger lift
LH L H Linen for hire
Dogs by arrangement
C hildren welcome
Peterborough Marriott Hotel
F5
Lynch Wood, Map A Peterborough Business Park Peterborough, PE2 6GB Tel: +44 (0)1733 371111 - Fax: +44 (0)1733 236725 www.peterboroughmarriott.co.uk
A superb location for any occasion whether it’s for business or pleasure. The hotel is set in 11 acres of landscaped grounds. Fantastic food and extensive leisure facilities.
B&B Per Room Weekday rates from Weekend rates from 20
£145 £85
AA Hotel
Holiday Inn Peterborough West Thorpe Wood, Peterborough, PE3 6SG Tel: +44 (0)1733 289988 - Fax: +44 (0)1733 262737 hipeterborough@qmh-hotels.com www.holidayinn.com
F4 Map A
We are a modern, friendly and welcoming 4 star hotel situated in lush green surroundings and a convenient location just minutes away from the A1(M), 2.5 miles from the city centre and East Coast Mainline train station. We offer extensive leisure and conference facilities including 133 bedrooms, 14 air-conditioned meeting rooms, leisure facilities including a swimming pool and a stylish restaurant and bar area.
B&B Per Room Weekday rate Weekend rate
from £100 from £65
BEST WESTERN PLUS Orton Hall Hotel and Spa
AA Hotel
F4 Map A
The Village, Orton Longueville Peterborough, PE2 7DN Tel: +44 (0)1733 391111 - Fax: +44 (0)1733 231912 reception@ortonhall.co.uk www.abacushotels.co.uk
Superbly appointed 19th century manor house set in 20 acres of parkland. Impressive, spacious, airy and quiet rooms, four-posters, lounges, a choice of dining. Conference and banqueting facilities. Leisure club and Imagine Spa. Separate village pub in the grounds.
B&B Per Room Singles Doubles / Twins Staterooms
£72 - £180 £90 - £180 £117 - £200
AA Hotel 21
Bell Inn Hotel Jo Grimshaw, Great North Road, Stilton, Peterborough, PE7 3RA Tel: +44 (0)1733 241066 - Fax: +44 (0)1733 245173 reception@thebellstilton.co.uk www.thebellstilton.co.uk
F6 Map A
Stunning 16th century coaching inn located in the idyllic village of Stilton. Offering comfortable accommodation, traditional bars, fine food and conference facilities.
B&B Per Room 3 Single ensuite 7 Deluxe Double ensuite 10 Double ensuite 2 Four-Poster ensuite 1 Family ensuite
£78 £98 - £118 £85 - £105 £118 - £138 £118 - £193
AA Hotel
Queensgate Hotel 5 Fletton Avenue, Peterborough, PE2 8AX Tel. +44 (0)1733 562572 www.thequeensgatehotel.co.uk
Newly redeveloped and beautifully appointed. Now one of the finest hotels in the area. Independent too! Long known for its traditional charm and friendly welcome. In walking distance of the city centre attractions. You’ll enjoy our food, especially Sweet Olives restaurant. With a full health and beauty salon and floatation suite, the inclusive executive rooms and weekend breaks are a super treat as well as great value. *Lower rates apply at weekends and for longer stays. Per room prices from* 42 Bedrooms Superior rooms Executive with health and beauty Weekend with health and beauty 22
£49 - £89 £99 - £123 £125 - £199
AA Hotel
The Great Northern Hotel
Station Approach, Peterborough PE1 1QL Tel. +44 (0)1733 552 595 - Fax: +44 (0)1733 564855 Reda Chahboun General Manager reception@thegreatnorthernhotel.co.uk www.thegreatnorthernhotel.com
Iconic hotel in the heart of Peterborough which offers excellent accommodation and conference facilities. Experience our Carriages restaurant for pleasure or business and choose from an array of seasonal menus. We also cater for all special occasions including, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and proms. Our 37 bedrooms all include flat screen TV’s, tea and coffee making facilities, 24 hour room service and free Wi-Fi. Overnight stays include a full breakfast. We look forward to welcoming you at The Great Northern Hotel.
Room rates from Room rates
from £80
Self accredited
Bull Hotel
Westgate, Peterborough, PE1 1RB Tel. +44 (0)1733 561364 Fax. +44 (0)1733 557304 www.peelhotels.co.uk
Originally dating back to the seventeenth century, this grade two listed building has been extensively developed and tastefully refurbished to provide guests with 4 star comfort. Situated in the heart of the city centre, with 118 beautiful bedrooms and stunning public areas full of antiques with walls dressed by fine works of art. Brasserie restaurant, Pastroudis Bar Lounge and Coffee Shop, free Wireless Internet and complimentary car park.
Room Rates Room rates
£68 - £170
AA Hotel 23
The Lily Pad Cottages Jane and Andrew Codman No’s 1,2,4,5,6,7,8 and 9 The Lily Pad Northfields Lane, Nassington, Peterborough PE8 6QJ Tel: +44 (0)1780 784394 / 07833 680110 bookings@stamfordcottages.co.uk www.stamfordcottages.co.uk
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Eight, bespoke, stone built, self catering cottages and apartments, from one to five bedrooms. Only a 15 minute drive into the centre of Peterborough. Any length of stay available and flexible check in/out times. Peaceful location with an indoor pool.
Elderflower Cottage Mr and Mrs P Wilkinson Meadow View, Shepherds Walk Belmesthorpe, Stamford, PE9 4JG Tel: +44 (0)1780 757188 Mob: +44 (0)7711 533204 philipwdawn@btinternet.com www.elderflowercottage.co.uk
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Delightful cottage set between the two villages of Ryhall and Belmesthorpe overlooking fields and the River Gwash. Ideally situated for Peterborough and Stamford.
LF Per cottage 1 Cottage/ Sleeps 4 £250 to Special rates for £400 Burghley weeks VB Self Catering
From £40 per person per night up to £1500 per cottage per week.
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Castle Farm Stephanie Gould Castle Farm Guest House, Fotheringhay, Peterborough, PE8 5HZ Tel: +44 (0)1832 226200 Mobile: 07762 516 735 castle_farm_bnb@hotmail.com www.castlefarm-guesthouse.co.uk
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Excellent accommodation in delightfully situated farmhouse with river frontage. Historical surroundings. Within easy reach of major routes and midlands towns.
B&B Per Room 1 Single ensuite
From £45
2 Double ensuite
From £90
2 Twin ensuite 1 Family
From £80 From £110VB Bed and Breakfast
19 West Street 19 West Street, Kings Cliffe Peterborough PE8 6XB Tel: +44 (0)1780 470365 kjhl.dixon@gmail.com www.kingjohnhuntinglodge.co.uk
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Grade II listed. 500 year old stone house, reputedly one of King John’s hunting lodges. Delicious breakfast, beautiful walled garden. Locked off-street parking. Wonderful countryside, including Rutland Water. Central location for many magnificent stately homes.
B&B Per Room 1 Single with private £45.00 bathroom 2 Double/twin with £65 private bathroom 1 Family (sleeps up from to 4) can be let £65 to B&B or self caterin £120
VB Bed and Breakfast
Stoneacre
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Peter and Elizabeth, Elton Road, Wansford, Nr Peterborough and Stamford, PE8 6JT Tel: +44 (0)1780 783283 www.stoneacreguesthouse.co.uk
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Luxury country house set in a tranquil location, spectacular views, small golf course and self-catering. Recommended by ‘Which’. Convenient location to access all the local attractions.
Papley Farm Cottages
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The Chestnut Tree cottage and The Bungalow are both comfortable, peaceful and very well equipped. Each has a double, a twin and a single bedroom, kitchen/diner and separate sitting room. Between Lutton and Warmington villages - near Peterborough, Oundle and Stamford. ‘Couple only’ price available. Free brochure.
LF
LF Self Catering Per Room 1 night £45 - £55 Weekend - 2 nights £65 - £75 7 nights £130 - £150 VB Guest Midweek - 4 nights £85 - £100 House
The Graham Guest House
E6
Mrs Joyce Lane, Slade House, Papley Farm, Warmington Peterborough PE8 6UU Tel: +44 (0)1832 272583 Fax: +44 (0)1832 272583 papleyfarmcottages.co.uk papleyfarmcottages@gmail.com
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Mrs Elizabeth Hext 296 Oundle Road, Peterborough, PE2 9QA Tel: +44 (0)1733 567824 Fax: +44 (0)1733 567824 grahamguesthouse@btinternet.com This is a friendly, family run guest house. Close to the city centre, restaurants and bars. Ample private parking.
B&B Per Room 1 Single ensuite £30 - £35 3 Singles £27 standard 4 Doubles/ £50 - £55 twins ensuite 2 Family rooms from £65 VB Guest ensuite House
Per cottage Prices per cottage per week
£340 to £500
1 Cottage sleeps 5
VB Self Catering
1 Bungalow sleeps 5
Common Right Barns
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Teresa Fowler Common Right Farm, Plash Drove, Wisbech St Mary, PE13 4SP Tel: +44 (0)1945 410424 Fax: +44 (0)1945 410424 teresa@commonrightbarns.co.uk www.commonrightbarns.co.uk The Dairy Annexe, self catering bungalow style conversion with accessible features and new extended lounge. Private garden and parking. Easy access to A47.
LF Per cottage 1 Cottage - sleeps 2 £300 to £400 pw to 4 people Short Break £40 pppn
VB Self Catering
Getting Around In Peterborough Peterborough, as one of four UK Environment Cities, has sustainable transport on the agenda. The city council’s Travelchoice project promotes the benefits of walking, cycling, car sharing and public transport to schools, businesses and the wider community for a cleaner, greener and healthier Peterborough.
7KH *UHHQ Wheel
:D\ÀQGLQJ Visitors to Peterborough City Centre will soon benefit from the introduction of innovative new Wayfinding features. The Wayfinding signs are due in mid 2013 to help visitors and pedestrians navigate their way around the city. The signs will feature maps with a ‘you are here’ sign and contain remarkable information about Peterborough’s past.
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Peterborough is part of the government supported ‘Plugged in Places’ scheme which provides electric car owners places to charge their cars across the city. As part of a drive to promote electric vehicle use in Peterborough, the City Council will be hosting a series of Electric Vehicle Trial Days, where visitors will be welcome to come and test drive a range of electric vehicles and talk to industry experts.
The Green Wheel is a 45 mile long cycle route circling the city, which takes you through the historic fens and scenic countryside which surrounds Peterborough. There are plenty of places to stop off at, such as Crown Lakes, Flag Fen and Ferry Meadows Country Parks and villages such as Peakirk, Newborough and Farcet. Pick up your own copy of Your Cycle Map Peterborough at the Tourist Information on Bridge Street.
Travelchoice will be hosting this years first Electric Vehicle Trial Day on May 25th in collaboration with the Peterborough Green Festival.
For more information on getting around in Peterborough please visit www.travelchoice.org.uk or call (01733) 747474.
Travelling
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to Peterborough
Peterborough is well-placed on the UK’s road and rail network and is within easy reach of major airports. The city sits east of the A1 just 80 miles north of London. Peterborough train station is situated on the East Coast Mainline and is only a short walk from the city centre.
Parking
By rail
Birmingham Cambridge Dover Ely Gatwick Heathrow Lincoln London (central) Manchester Norwich Stansted York
87 miles 40 miles 150 miles 29 miles 128 miles 92 miles 54 miles 80 miles 132 miles 79 miles 66 miles 125 miles
Birmingham 1 hour 45 mins Cambridge 53 mins Edinburgh 3 hours 45 mins Leicester 55 mins London King’s Cross 50 mins London / Waterloo - Paris, France 3 hours - Brussels, Belgium 3 hours Newcastle 2 hours 15 mins Norwich 1 hour 40 mins Nottingham 1 hour 6 mins York 1 hour 10 mins
For more information on car parking visit www.peterborough.gov.uk or telephone (01733) 452336.
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There are many city council car parks for long and short stay: Dickens Street PE1 5EA Wellington Street PE1 5DU Regional Fitness and Swimming Centre PE1 5AP Bishops Road PE1 1YZ Riverside PE1 1EG Wirrina PE1 5AP Pleasure Fair Meadow PE2 9PB Car Haven PE1 1YY Market multi-storey PE1 1AY Brook Street PE1 1TU Craig Street PE1 2EJ
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©MAPS IN MINUTES™ (2011) Contains Ordnance Survey data ©Crown copyright and database right 2010
By road
Map based upon Ordnance Survey on behalf of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office © Crown copyright 100024236
Christmas Save £’s
Our pleasure, your privilege
Peterborough’s Pcard is a great way to shop, eat and have a day out in the city while saving money. The Pcard gives you discounts in many participating shops, clubs, hotels, restaurants and attractions. Terms and conditions apply. The Pcard is available at only £5 for an annual membership.
Apply for your Pcard at the Visitor Information Centre, 9 Bridge Street or call (01733) 452336 for more information