Peterborough Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral Church of St Peter, St Paul and St Andrew, is one of the most important surviving Norman buildings in Britain. Completed in the early 13th century, the cathedral is famed for its remarkable Early English Gothic West Front—a dramatic trio of arches that form one of the great architectural spectacles of medieval England.
The building’s history stretches back over 1,350 years, originally founded as a monastery in 654 AD. It was destroyed by Viking raids and rebuilt as a Benedictine abbey in the 10th century. Following the Norman Conquest, it was once again rebuilt, eventually becoming a cathedral after the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII.
Inside, visitors can admire the stunning painted wooden ceiling in the nave—one of only four like it in Europe—and discover the resting place of Katharine of Aragon, the first wife of Henry VIII. The tomb of Mary, Queen of Scots was also once here before her body was later moved to Westminster Abbey. The cathedral continues to be a working church and a place of worship, music, community, and reflection.
The cathedral also plays host to a year-round calendar of events, exhibitions, concerts, light festivals, and family activities, making it a lively hub of culture as well as a place of historic significance.
Key Features:
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Spectacular Norman and Early English Gothic architecture
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Original painted wooden ceiling from the 13th century
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Tomb of Katharine of Aragon
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Site of Mary, Queen of Scots’ first burial
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Tower tours offering panoramic views (seasonal)
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On-site café and shop
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Peaceful cloisters and gardens
Upcoming Events at Peterborough Cathedral
Nearby Attractions
St John the Baptist Church
Rising gracefully over Cathedral Square, St John’s has welcomed worshippers since 1407. Step inside to find carved angels, medieval roof bosses and a tranquil stillness that contrasts the bustle outside — a timeless haven at the city’s civic heart.
Peterborough Museum & Art Gallery
Housed in a Georgian mansion, the museum tells the city’s story from Roman settlement to modern times. Explore archaeology, fine art, fossils and ghost stories in one of Peterborough’s most atmospheric buildings.
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.
Peterborough Guildhall
This elegant 17th-century landmark, once the seat of civic life, stands proudly at the centre of Cathedral Square. With its open arches and carved stonework, the Guildhall connects past and present — a perfect spot to pause and watch city life unfold.
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.
Peterborough Town Hall
A fine example of inter-war architecture, Peterborough Town Hall blends art-deco grace with civic purpose. Its grand council chamber and clock tower have witnessed decades of local democracy, celebrating the city’s spirit of progress, pride and community since 1933.
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.