Peterborough Cathedral
Peterborough Cathedral
4.5
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
About
Peterborough Cathedral is in the heart of the historic city of Peterborough, England. There has been a place of worship and prayer on the site for 1350 years, the present building approaching its 900th anniversary. With superb Gothic West Front and beautiful hand-painted wooden nave ceiling. Peterborough Cathedral is also the resting place of Henry VIII's first wife, Katherine of Aragon. The Cathedral was also once the resting place of Mary Queen of Scots until her body was moved to Westminster Abbey in 1612. Today it continues to be the focus for a vibrant community. It is the principle church for the Church of England diocese of Peterborough, which serves Northamptonshire, Rutland and the Soke of Peterborough. The origins of the cathedral can be traced back to King Peada of the Middle Angles who founded the first monastery on the site in 655AD. The monastic settlement was almost entirely destroyed by the Vikings in 870 and rebuilt as a Benedictine Abbey between 960 and 970. The Abbey church then survived Hereward the Wake’s attack on the Abbey in 1069, and remained intact until an accidental fire destroyed the second Abbey here in 1116. It was rebuilt in its present form between 1118 and 1238. It became the Cathedral of the new Diocese of Peterborough in 1541 and it is now known as the Cathedral Church of St Peter, St Paul and St Andrew.
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  • Alix
    6 contributions
    Wonderful experience
    Stained glass windows are spectacular, absolutely stunning. Beautiful architecture. Catherine of Aragon tomb (with pomegranates gifts) worth seeing as well as the memorial to Edith Cavell WW2 heroine. Guide was very friendly and helpful.
    Visited December 2022
    Travelled solo
    Written 13 December 2022
  • Alan F
    5 contributions
    Katherine of Aragon Festival
    The Katherine of Aragon Festival (25th to the 29th January) was exceptionally well organised and informative. Re-enactors were readily available to photograph and discuss their characters with members of the public. The queen herself was stunningly and authentically robed, but so was Thomas Cromwell, Henry VIII and the ladies-in-waiting, all of whom were ready to talk to onlookers. Credit must go to all who organised this historical pageant because they generated so much interest in the tudor period, especially in the loyal Katherine herself who was shamefully rebuffed by an ungrateful King because his needs had changed. I hope this festival becomes an annual event of the same magnitude. What an outstanding cathedral Peterborough is and rightly named "Luckiest of All".
    Visited January 2023
    Written 31 January 2023
  • Anne W
    17 contributions
    Beautiful and historic
    The cathedral is beautiful and feels like an island of serenity in the centre of Peterborough. There is a wonderful atmosphere inside and all the staff and friendly and enthusiastic but also respectful. We found the little card guides really helpful . I was particularly interested to see the tomb of Katherine of Aragon but once inside realised there were other fascinating sights, such as the centuries-old painted oak ceiling. We were so fascinated by the cathedral that we went on the Tower Tour . Our fantastic guides Barry and Paul were brilliant and the whole tour - especially the magnificent views inside and outside (on the top of the cathedral ) was amazing . It really made our day. Highly recommend!
    Visited February 2023
    Travelled with friends
    Written 5 February 2023
  • emma27025
    Ferndown, United Kingdom82 contributions
    Stunning
    Absolutely stunning, the volunteers were so lovely. It's free to enter but they do have donation boxes. The ceilings are out of this world. They have 2 disabled parking spaces on the grounds but couldn't find how to get in but we did park in the disabled bays that were a 3 min walk. Would definitely go again if I'm in the area.
    Visited March 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 25 March 2023
  • SL Y
    657 contributions
    Beautiful cathedral
    Impressive cathedral. Very large space. Impressive brickwork, arches, ceiling and tower. Didn't realise Petersborough had such an impressive monument. Church where Katherine of Aragon is entombed, and well as original burial site of Mary Queen of Scots. Magnificent ceiling. Very high arches. Impressive old heaters inside heating up the inside of the cathedral
    Visited April 2023
    Travelled solo
    Written 7 April 2023
  • tams74
    Peterborough, United Kingdom46 contributions
    Amazing tour!
    Took my dad for the upper levels and tower tour as a Father’s Day present and I can’t recommend this tour enough! Our guide Gareth was so friendly and knowledgeable, we learnt so much about our beautiful cathedral. Loved it!
    Visited June 2023
    Travelled with friends
    Written 24 June 2023
  • JohnnyUttah
    Ilkeston, United Kingdom40 contributions
    Fabulous
    My wife and I visited this wonderful Cathedral today for the first time. We had a fantastic time all thanks to our guide, Brian. Brian gave us a superb guided tour and although it should have only lasted one hour he stayed with us for one and a half hours at our request. His knowledge was impressive and he relayed it in a manner that had us hooked to the end.
    Visited July 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 8 July 2023
  • Thomas M
    Offenbach, Germany6,656 contributions
    Impressive, Important Medieval Cathedral, Lots to See (Normally, i.e.)
    Peterborough Cathedral (or, as it's officially named, the Cathedral Church of St Peter, St Paul and St Andrew) is the seat of the Anglican bishop of Peterborough and one of the most imposing medieval churches in England, its present building dating back to the 12th century, while the West facade is an impressive example of Early English Gothic. It features many busts, stone tables and church insignia; alas, during my visit less than half of the building was accessible, because a Star Wars-y show occupied most of the Eastern part of the church which I did not want to see. John Williams-type music was playing in the church constantly. This was actually my second visit to Peterborough Cathedral, but my first extended stay in the city. Entry is "free", but you're supposed to donate some money before you enter the nave proper. It's certainly worth parting with a few quid. The church grounds are also worth seeing, though the monastery garden wasn't accessible this time either. Entry is through the gate on the West side, which opens to Cathedral Square, the prettiest part of Peterborough.
    Visited August 2023
    Travelled solo
    Written 31 August 2023
  • John Actor
    Matlock, United Kingdom24 contributions
    Wonderful cathedral - superb tour
    Took an afternoon tour of Peterborough cathedral yesterday (start time: 2.30pm; cost: fiver): it was as excellent as the cathedral itself was marvellous. Guide Barrie Cull did a very, very fine job. Not only extremely knowledgable but highly personable with it. We had a delightful time.
    Visited September 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 15 September 2023
  • John Hood
    Exeter, United Kingdom6 contributions
    Star Wars adventures in Unofficial Galaxies
    During a much-needed summer break, we got to see the Unofficial Galaxies Star Wars exhibition at Peterborough Cathedral. This was the first Star Wars-related event I've attended since Star Wars Celebration Europe 2016. Dad wielding a lightsaber was a highlight. Special thanks to the volunteers who made us feel so welcome and part of an amazing community of fans.
    Visited August 2023
    Travelled with family
    Written 21 September 2023
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4.5
2,170 reviews
Excellent
1,609
Very good
468
Average
65
Poor
15
Terrible
13

Mike
Glossop, UK563 contributions
Nov 2023 • Solo
I never realised this cathedral was as unique as it is. The 12th century painted timber roof is an amazing survivor and this is also the last resting place of Catherine of Aragon. There are several other interesting features like the Saxon carved Hedda stone, the 15th century clock and the story of the last abbot who managed to stay on as the bishop at the reformation.

Well worth a visit and the Becket cafe in the precinct serves a nice afternoon tea and cake.
Written 24 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your lovely review of our amazing building. I will pass on your comments to the Dean and Beckets cafe (they also do amazing home cooked sausage rolls!)
Written 28 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Erika W
1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Couples
Really looking forward to my visit but... at the door asked if i had a ticket ? asked what for and the person on tge door said the christmas market of course .. i said just wish to visit the cathedral and make a donation.. but told "well you cannot come in to visit" both my husband and i were somewhat perplexed as they said they are calling security ! we checked website which said free entry irrespective of any special event and was happy to donate but turned away by a surly jobs worthy personnel what a shame 😒
Written 18 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Firstly we are sorry that your experience of our wonderful Cathedral was not what you were expecting. Our Christmas market was very busy on Friday and Saturday and was enjoyed by many thousands of people, with the vast majority leaving very positive reviews. It was an event that was widely advertised in the local press, across our social media channels and on Google and Facebook. Our website clearly stated that the event was taking place and that the cost of entry was just three pounds. If you wish to visit at another time we would be more than happy to accomodate you and your family.
Written 21 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Zoe C
Milton Keynes, United Kingdom39 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
Impressive and interesting cathedral with several diverse key things to see such as the unique painted wooden nave ceiling, Katharine of Aragon's tomb, the monk's clock with no face, etc. The gentleman on the door was very welcoming.
Written 14 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Jenny J
1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Friends
Fascinating cathedral to visit. Far exceeded my expectations and our visit was enhanced by our excellent tour guide James who provided an expert potted history with many interesting details, e.g. Oswald's arm! A hidden gem of great beauty and historic interest.
Written 12 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Tony K
Los Angeles, CA211 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
This is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in England but is not an often visited one. We had a lovely afternoon walking around and stayed for choral evensong, which I highly recommend when visiting any cathedrals in England. Plan your visit later in the day and plan to stay. So few people attend that you are often invited to site in the quire.
Written 10 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Jemma G
London, UK799 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
This was a great place to visit! The building is incredible, worth going to see the ceiling alone and we found a lovely warm welcome from the volunteers. Admission is free with a suggested donation. The whole experience couldn’t have been more different to our recent visit to Canterbury Cathedral which was far from welcoming and very expensive. We parked in the Asda car park, less than 10 min walk away and is free for 2 hours.
Written 1 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Justin B
London, UK13 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
Visited the cathedral as part of architecture day. The tour started at 10:15 and concluded at 16:15. The tour included a welcome with tea and biscuits, and a light lunch.

The morning saw an outside and ground floor interior tour by Sue, she was knowledgable and welcoming.

The afternoon saw the tour transcend to the upper floors, including the roof space and towers. This was led by mark and supported by Barry. Again, both guides were friendly and knowledgable,

I have visited the cathedral many times but learned so much today with added humour.

The tour was group was kept to a small number (11 of us) meaning the guides could be heard and it was possible to easily ask questions.

The cathedral really needs no introduction, at least 900 years of history packaged in a spectacular building with passionate staff guiding visitors through it all.

The cost of todays tour was £30 which was amazing value.

If you’re looking to brighten a dreary autumn / winter day then head to this hidden gem.
Written 28 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

MTMHampshire
476 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Much bigger than I had expected. Beautiful inside and outside. Great signage for the key parts and tombs. Had not realised Katharine of Aragon was buried here.
Written 27 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Ernie H
Cardiff, UK1,817 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
Outside only review as not open after a working day. First impressions are awe as it is imposing from the front aspect after passing through the Norman arch. Walk around the whole building and it is obvious at to what has been lost over the years, There are information boards dotted around to explain those.
Written 21 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

LouEastbourne
London, UK82 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
I recommend a visit to Peterborough Cathedral. The cathedral is around a ten minute walk from the train station and easy to find. It is a large cathedral and can be explored alone but I definitely recommend booking a guided tour. I was able to book online beforehand at £5. My guide was Barry who gave an excellent and very informative tour. Barry gave many facts and stories which I would have overlooked/not known if I had not booked the tour. It is well worth the tour. There is a small gift shop where you can buy a guidebook amongst other items. I highly recommend a visit especially for people with a Tudor interest as it houses Katharine of Aragon’s tomb.
Written 20 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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Peterborough Cathedral

Frequently Asked Questions about Peterborough Cathedral

Peterborough Cathedral is open:
  • Mon - Fri 09:00 - 17:00
  • Sat - Sun 09:00 - 15:00