TThis vibrant mural on Bread Street celebrates Leslie Poles Hartley (1895–1972), one of Peterborough’s most distinguished literary figures and a native son of the region. Born in nearby Whittlesey and raised at Fletton Towers in Peterborough, Hartley developed a lifelong passion for storytelling that would see him become a celebrated novelist and short-story writer.
Educated at Harrow and Balliol College, Oxford, Hartley began writing as a child and went on to publish a remarkable body of work spanning decades. He is best known for The Go-Between (1953), whose opening line, “The past is a foreign country…”, has become one of the most memorable in modern English literature. He also achieved acclaim with the Eustace and Hilda trilogy and other novels and short stories that explore themes of memory, morality and the transition from childhood to adulthood.
The Oundle Road artwork, rich with historic references and visual echoes from The Go-Between and the local rail heritage, connects Hartley’s global cultural influence back to his early years in Peterborough. Framed by a new ‘Peterborough Heritage’ plaque, the piece not only honours Hartley’s literary legacy but also anchors it in place — inviting passers-by to reflect on how the landscapes and streets of Peterborough helped shape a voice that resonated far beyond the city’s borders.his bold, larger-than-life mural celebrates Walter Cornelius – the legendary “Birdman of Peterborough” – in the city he called home. Known for his daring stunts, feats of strength, and famous attempts to “fly” across the River Nene using handmade wings, Cornelius was a much-loved local character and long-time lifeguard at Peterborough Lido. Artist Nathan Murdoch captures his unmistakable energy and eccentric spirit, blending vivid colour and dynamic composition to tell the story of a man whose mix of humour, determination, and showmanship made him a true Peterborough icon. The mural brings a touch of theatre to the street, just as Walter did in life.