Parks, Nature and Wildlife
The Great Fen
A vast landscape of sky, water and wild beauty, The Great Fen is one of Britain’s most ambitious conservation projects — reconnecting ancient wetlands and wildlife habitats between Peterborough and Huntingdon. Explore boardwalks, bird hides and sweeping fenland views alive with nature.
Stanground Wash
A serene floodplain reserve where river, meadow and sky meet. Managed by the Wildlife Trust, Stanground Wash offers peaceful walks, abundant birdlife and seasonal wetlands that come alive each spring and winter — a quiet gem on the city’s southern edge.
Elton Hall
Elton Hall is a romantic Gothic house and garden, home to the Proby family for over 400 years. Explore grand state rooms, rare art and manuscripts, and enchanting formal gardens that reflect centuries of heritage, elegance, and care near Peterborough.
Burghley House
Burghley House is one of England’s grandest Elizabethan estates, blending majestic architecture, art, and parkland. Discover opulent staterooms, explore centuries of family history, wander the sculpture gardens and Capability Brown landscapes, and enjoy a full calendar of seasonal events, exhibitions, and country fairs.
Thorpe Meadows Sculpture Trail
The Thorpe Meadows Sculpture Trail weaves through one of Peterborough’s most picturesque green spaces, offering a unique blend of outdoor art and waterside scenery.
Barnack Hills & Holes NNR
Wander among wildflowers and rolling grassy humps in this former medieval quarry, now one of Britain’s richest wildlife habitats.
Exotic Pet Refuge
Meet meerkats, monkeys, reptiles, and more at this dedicated animal rescue centre, open on select days to support its vital conservation work.
Sacrewell Heritage Farm & Country Centre
Meet animals, explore the restored 18th-century watermill, enjoy tractor rides, nature trails and play areas, and experience rural life surrounded by history, wildlife and open skies.
Dogsthorpe Star Pit
Explore a nature reserve where industrial past meets ecological treasure.
Eye Green Nature Reserve
A peaceful lake and wildlife haven on the edge of Eye village.
Nene Washes Nature Reserve
An internationally important wetland and a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Stanley Park
A local park with play areas, sports courts, and green space for the community.
Holywell Ponds
A tranquil medieval fishpond site fed by a spring emerging from a grotto, nestled in Longthorpe amid wildflower meadows and nature reserve habitat.
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.
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.
Central Park
Peterborough’s flagship city park, combining formal gardens, play areas, sports facilities and year-round events in a vibrant green oasis close to the city centre.
Woodston Ponds
A peaceful nature reserve tucked beside the River Nene, Woodston Ponds is a haven for wildlife and walkers alike. Discover reedbeds, wet woodland and bird hides offering close encounters with herons, kingfishers and dragonflies — a tranquil escape minutes from the city centre.
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.
John Clare Cottage
Visit the home of poet John Clare in Helpston — the “peasant poet” who gave voice to rural England. The cottage, gardens and museum celebrate his life, work and enduring love of nature.
