River & Rail Quarter
Where Peterborough’s riverfront and rail heritage meet — a dynamic city gateway that blends history, leisure, and bold new development.
The River & Rail Quarter is the point where visitors first encounter Peterborough by train or boat — and where the city reveals its layered story of industry, recreation, and renewal. It follows the River Nene as it threads through the city centre, from the heritage platforms of Nene Valley Railway to the glass-fronted ambition of Fletton Quays.
This is a landscape of contrasts: Victorian railway engineering alongside modern leisure spaces; restored heritage buildings set against striking new architecture. The quarter’s attractions span past and future — Railworld Wildlife Haven, an eco-heritage project built on a former coal yard; Peterborough Lido, a 1930s open-air pool still buzzing with summer life; and Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) Peterborough, a symbol of the city’s educational and economic future.
Cultural life flows along the river here, with waterside festivals, food markets, and live performances on the Embankment. New developments such as the Station Quarter regeneration and the planned Embankment footbridge will make it even easier to move between the rail hub, the waterfront, and the wider city.
Geographical Layout:
- Peterborough Station & Nene Valley Railway terminus
- Fletton Quays & Embankment
- River Nene corridor through the city centre
- Railworld Wildlife Haven
- Peterborough Lido
- ARU Peterborough campus
Cultural Anchors & Symbols:
- Nene Valley Railway & heritage rail events
- Railworld Wildlife Haven
- Peterborough Lido
- Fletton Quays development
- ARU Peterborough
- Embankment performance and event space
Nene Valley Railway
Travel through time on a heritage steam railway running from Peterborough to Wansford. With vintage carriages, events and family days, it’s a living link to the golden age of rail.
Railworld Wildlife Haven
A former coal yard reborn as an eco-heritage attraction combining model railways, gardens and wildlife habitats. A hidden gem celebrating innovation, sustainability and family fun near the River Nene.
Peterborough United FC
Experience the thrill of matchday at the Weston Homes Stadium, where loyal fans, fast-paced action, and family-friendly atmosphere make every game an unforgettable part of city life.
Key Theatre Peterborough
Perched beside the River Nene, the Key Theatre stages drama, comedy, live music and family shows in an intimate, welcoming setting. With riverside dining and views across the Embankment, it’s a cultural gem at the heart of Peterborough’s creative life.
Old Customs House
Standing proudly on the riverside since the 17th century, the Old Customs House recalls Peterborough’s bustling river-trade days. Once a toll house for goods arriving by barge, it remains a charming reminder of the city’s working-waterfront heritage.
Peterborough Blue Plaque Trail
Explore the stories etched into Peterborough’s streets through the Blue Plaque Trail. Each plaque reveals a piece of the city’s heritage — from royal visitors to inventors, artists and reformers — creating an inspiring open-air museum of local history.
ARU Peterborough
A landmark riverside campus combining striking contemporary design with a mission for opportunity and innovation. ARU Peterborough hosts exhibitions, public lectures and community events, opening its doors to residents and visitors keen to explore learning, architecture and modern city life.
The Embankment
Peterborough’s great outdoor stage for festivals, concerts and open-air celebrations. Framing the river with sweeping lawns, pathways and views of the Cathedral, the Embankment is where the city comes together for culture, sport and community life throughout the year.
Fletton Quays
A revitalised stretch of the River Nene lined with walkways, seating, and striking public art. Once industrial, now inspiring — Fletton Quays blends modern architecture with heritage, creating a welcoming riverside destination for reflection, connection and discovery.
The Green Backyard
A thriving volunteer-run community garden and urban green space where sustainability comes to life. Grow vegetables, attend workshops, join family events, or simply relax among nature — a green sanctuary connecting people, wellbeing and the heart of the city.
Peterborough Athletics Track
Set beside the River Nene, this floodlit all-weather track on the Embankment welcomes clubs, schools and casual runners alike. Perfect for training, competition or keeping fit outdoors, it’s a vibrant hub for athletics, community sport and healthy activity in the city.