Getting around
Peterborough is easy to navigate as it is well-connected via public transport. Buses are equipped with ramps and kneeling actions, providing excellent accessibility. There is priority seating for the elderly or disabled, and most routes around the city are covered by regular services.
Alternatively, Peterborough railway station (PE1 1QL) connects the city to many nearby and far-flung destinations for the more adventurous. There are also wide automatic doors and bench seating at the station for those who are not as mobile as they once were.
Additionally, there is also a Shopmobility equipment hire centre in Peterborough city centre (PE1 1NT) and Dial A Ride is available for a paid membership to help those who wish to travel at specific times yet cannot drive themselves.
Getting Outdoors in Peterborough
There are plenty of things to do around Peterborough, both indoor and outdoor. Nene Park (PE2 5UU) is a beautiful place to visit on a warm day whether you are in a wheelchair, on a mobility scooter, or on foot. Even better, there is free mobility scooter hire at Nene Park if you would like a longer trek but cannot easily walk. Within Nene Park you will also find Ferry Meadows Country Park, where you can potentially go fishing, ride a train, see the horses and even explore the meadows, lakes and woodland if you are able. In summer, there are barbecue stands there to enjoy an outdoor family gathering.
If you are interested in gardening then Elton Hall and Gardens (PE8 6SH) is well worth a visit. Although the gardens are its main attraction, the house itself is a fascinating grade, one listed building, containing porcelain, fine art, and other treasures. In recent years, the Victorian Gardens have been beautifully restored and now you will find fine hedges and a Gothic Orangery that was built to celebrate the millennium.
If you’re able to swim, or even just get into a pool, then Peterborough Lido (Bishop’s Rd, Peterborough PE1 1YY) may be worth a visit. Open from May to September, it provides a great opportunity to experience outdoor swimming. There are also a number of lifts for those with mobility needs so no one has to miss out on a dip in the water.
If you are interested in some of the best architecture the city has to offer, Peterborough Cathedral (PE1 1XS) is always worth a visit. A staggering 900+ years old, with extensive Gothic hand painted architecture, it is no wonder that Mary Queen of Scots rested here before being moved to Westminster Abbey. Not only this, but Henry the Eighth’s first wife, Katherine of Aragon, also rests here.
Other Things To Do In Peterborough
When the weather is a little less than perfect, Peterborough provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy something a little warmer and drier than those we’ve already mentioned.
When it comes to indoor pursuits, Peterborough Museum (51 Priestgate, Peterborough PE1 1LF) is a fantastic place to visit. It hosts various events and exhibitions relating to the local area, and there are also workshops to attend to learn new skills.
Or, you could spend some time browsing the shops. Queensgate Shopping Centre (PE1 1NT) provides a great place to browse the shops or simply grab a coffee or a bite to eat and watch the world go by.
Entertainment In Peterborough
When it comes to entertainment, there are plenty of cinemas in Peterborough, such as Showcase Cinema de Lux (Mallory Rd, Peterborough PE1 5AU). The Showcase also has wheelchair friendly seating and promotes an inclusive movie watching experience. There are discounts for seniors.
The New Theatre (46 Broadway, Peterborough PE1 1RS) also offers a great selection of plays and performances, so there are plenty of cultural arts to enjoy. The Cresset (Rightwell E, Peterborough PE3 8DX) also provides a wealth of entertainment, including some community workshops to help connect the local people with its culture.
Social and Skills Centres
If you’re looking to meet new people and try new things, Peterborough is also home to community centres that provide entertainment in the form of plays and musicals. For example, Woodston Community Centre (PE2 9JD) has opportunities to learn new skills, such as crafts, and also to socialise with others.
Age UK also offers a wealth of opportunities within Peterborough to make new friends and learn new skills. The Friendship Club meets once a fortnight and provides trips, games and activities aimed at helping foster genuine friendships within the older community. They also offer advice and support to those seeking assistance.
Eating out in Peterborough
There is a diverse range of cafés and restaurants in Peterborough. Auntie Anne’s (PE1 1NT) , for example, serves a range of classic teas, while, if you are a coffee aficionado, Bean Around (PE1 1XH)is a great spot to stop for a cuppa. For foodies, Fontanella (PE7 1BD) brings a fresh Italian menu to its customers while if you’re after a bit of spice, Gurkha Durbar (PE1 1RS) has a coveted 5 stars on Tripadvisor, with guests complimenting the amazing Nepalese fayre on offer there.
Whatever your palate, you’re sure to find a restaurant to suit you, and what’s more, there are a range of places where senior menus or senior discounts can be found to tempt your palate further. The pensioners lunch at Dobbies Garden centre (PE7 8NY) is very well rated if you’re looking to save some money while enjoying a nice lunch.