Peterborough Cathedral

School Visits

Peterborough Cathedral is a fantastic place to visit, whether you’re into history, architecture, or just looking for a peaceful day out. The cathedral’s stunning architecture is absolutely breathtaking, especially the iconic West Front that greets you as you arrive.

With over 900 years of history, the cathedral’s stunning architecture is absolutely breathtaking, especially the iconic West Front that greets you as you arrive. Inside, you’ll find incredible details like stained-glass windows and intricately carved ceilings that make it feel like you’re stepping back in time.

One of the best ways to explore is by joining a guided tour. The guides are full of fascinating stories about the cathedral’s past, including its royal connections—Katharine of Aragon is actually buried here!

If you want a more tailored experience, there are private bespoke tours available too. These can be customised around your specific interests, whether you’re curious about the history, art, or architecture.

Accessibility is another thing we do really well. The site is set up with accessible restrooms, and plenty of support to ensure everyone can enjoy their visit. The volunteers here are fantastic—they’re friendly, helpful, and genuinely passionate about the cathedral’s history, which really adds to the experience.

Whether you’re taking a tour, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, or chatting with one of the knowledgeable volunteers, Peterborough Cathedral is the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression.

It’s not just a visit—it’s an experience that’s both enriching and welcoming for everyone.

Family Visits

Peterborough Cathedral is an ideal destination for a fun family day out, blending history, adventure, and engaging activities.

School Visits

Using the Cathedral as an inspirational resource, we provide high-quality, interactive and inspiring activities to support your class-based learning

Group Visits

Whether your group is looking for a family friendly day out or a specialist tour for those interested in history or architecture, Peterborough Cathedral has much to offer visiting groups.

Top 10

Things To See

As you explore the stunning interior of Peterborough Cathedral, you’ll find a wealth of fascinating sights enhanced by informative panels that reveal insights into its history and architecture. Here are ten highlights to look for:

1 The Font: Located in the nave, this 13th-century bowl carved from Alwalton marble is used for baptisms.

2 The Nave Ceiling: Completed around 1240, this unique painted wood ceiling is one of only four in Europe.

3 The Hanging Crucifix: Designed by George Pace in 1975, it features a figure sculpted by Frank Roper and an inscription meaning “the cross stands while the world turns.”

4 The Choir Stalls: These intricately carved oak stalls from the 1890s showcase figures from the Cathedral’s history.

5 Katharine of Aragon’s Tomb: The first wife of Henry VIII was buried here in 1536; her memorial slab was installed in 1893 after being vandalised in the Civil War.

6 The New Building Ceiling: Constructed around 1500, it exemplifies late-Perpendicular architecture with a fan-vaulted ceiling.

7 The Hedda Stone: Dating from around AD 800, this stone is the only remaining artifact from the original Saxon monastery.

8 Mary, Queen of Scots’ Former Burial Place: After her execution in 1587, her body was interred here before being moved to Westminster Abbey in 1612.

9 St Oswald’s Chapel: Dedicated to the Northumbrian king, this chapel housed his arm as a prized relic.

10 Portraits of Old Scarlett: These portraits honour Robert Scarlett, who died in 1594, having buried both Katharine and Mary.

Entry: Donations are welcomed to support the Cathedral’s upkeep, and it’s advisable to check opening times before visiting. Tours are available on selected dates.

Points of interest at the Cathedral

Support Us

There are many ways that you can support Peterborough Cathedral. We rely on the generous donations of benefactors to sustain this magnificent site.

Book A Visit

Peterborough Cathedral is a fantastic place to visit, whether you’re into history, architecture, or just looking for a peaceful day out.