Keeping the kids entertained all summer can be tough, not to mention expensive. A great solution is to take them on a day trip or weekend away – ideal for having fun without breaking the bank. And with so many amazing cities right here in the UK that are easily accessible by train, families will be spoilt for choice. With heritage attractions, country walks, adventure playgrounds and more, few destinations offer as much family fun as Peterborough. Come along with CrossCountry and explore the best things to do with kids in Peterborough.
Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery
Located in one of the city’s most historic buildings – an heirloom from the Georgian era – Peterborough Museum has a wealth of stories to fascinate the whole family. Spend a day discovering the historic building’s secrets, from the haunting vaults to the ornate mansion rooms. It’s even home to over 200,000 objects tracing the archaeology, history, and geography of Peterborough. Exhibits range from Jurassic fossil remains to Roman Pottery, so there’s something to interest any age.
From Peterborough Station, the museum and art gallery is just a quick five-minute walk to the museum.
New Ark Adventure Playground
The New Ark Adventure playground is an independent charity, dedicated to encouraging children to take part in adventurous outdoor play. The playground structures are all handmade on-site using repurposed building materials, as sustainability is a priority for the organisation. Children are free to explore, make discoveries and be imaginative in a safe environment, something that is important for healthy development. It’s also a good chance for parents to take a step back and relax as there’s a team of professional play workers on hand to supervise everything.
Alongside the adventure playground, there’s an Eco centre, with a sensory garden and an orchard – a charming pocket of nature for children to learn about the small creatures and plants that surround them. At the City Farm families are encouraged to volunteer for feeding and caring duties, which is always popular with the kids.
From Peterborough Station, there are several buses available to the adventure playground in around fifteen minutes.
Peterborough Lido
Whether the little ones are just learning to swim or are already certified water babies, Peterborough Lido offers outdoor fun from April through to September. And, with three heated pools, families can enjoy a refreshing swim whatever the weather. There’s a fifty-metre pool, a teaching pool for children and a paddling pool for toddlers, as well as three large sun-bathing terraces. If the little ones have extra energy to burn off, head to the large grass lawn and play area, the perfect chance to dry off in the sun. For food and drink, visitors can pack a picnic or eat at the onsite café, which serves hot and cold food.
Peterborough Lido is a fifteen-minute walk or a short bus journey from Peterborough Station.
Ferry Meadows Country Park
An outdoor haven just three miles away from Peterborough’s busy city centre, Ferry Meadows Country Park is jam-packed full of fun activities for the whole family. Visitors can walk, cycle, play, horse ride, go fishing, rent a boat, or simply explore the endless meadows, lakes, and woodland. Jump on the Ferry Meadows Railway from Ham Lane Station to ride around the park and admire the nature and wildlife. There are three play areas catering for different ages and an exciting events programme throughout the year. Highlights include bug hunting, sensory craft sessions, and open-water swimming.
Everyone’s sure to be hungry after all that running around, so head to the Ferry Meadows Café or Lakeside Kitchen & Bar for a nice hot meal by the water. Alternatively, there are multiple picnic spots and BBQ stands throughout the park for an outdoor feast.
Big Sky Adventure Play
Big Sky has been delighting children and parents alike for many years. Upon entering the unassuming warehouse, families will be amazed by an explosion of colour and activity from all angles. There’s a soft play area, go karting, a role play village, laser tag and more! Whether it’s a spontaneous day out or a birthday party, Big Sky promises an afternoon of unlimited fun. The venue can host a range of themed events from unicorn parties to superhero gatherings, so every child can have their dream celebration.
Big Sky is located two miles from Peterborough station, roughly twenty minutes away.
Flip Out Trampoline Park
Flip Out Trampoline Park is a must-visit for anyone looking for an exhilarating day out. You’ll be worn out just watching the kids bouncing on the interconnected trampolines, leaping into the foam pits, and navigating the park’s challenging obstacles. There are a range of activities that will keep the kids delighted for hours, from Ninja Wipeout to Soft Play. Be sure to opt for Flip N Feast tickets so that after all the high-flying fun, everyone can enjoy some pizza and squash.
There are multiple bus routes available from Peterborough station to Flip Out throughout the day, all taking roughly twenty five minutes.
What to pack for a day out with the kids
Family days out can sometimes be tough and a bit intimidating to organise, so here are a few things to bring along to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip for everyone:
- Hats for sun protection
- Swim gear, including goggles and arm bands
- A lightweight coat or jumper in case it gets chilly
- Sun cream
- Healthy snacks and water
- Hand sanitiser and wipes
- Activities for the train journey, like games or colouring books
- A portable charger
- A picnic blanket
For more travel tips with children, check out our Train Ride Survival Guide.
How to get to Peterborough by train
Peterborough is well-connected from all over the UK with CrossCountry. Nearby, direct services are available from Melton Mowbray station and Ely station. If travelling from further afield, hop on one of several services running from Derby station, Birmingham New Street and Leicester station.
If you’re planning a day out with the kids in Peterborough, don’t forget to book an Advance ticket via our website or the CrossCountry app. If you need more information, you can contact us here.
Written by Seb