Ferry Meadows Country Park
A sprawling country park with meadows, woodlands, and lakes offering walks, wildlife, and family fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Ferry Meadows Country Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling country park with meadows, woodlands, and lakes offering walks, wildlife, and family fun.
"Ferry Meadows is hands down one of Peterborough’s best outdoor spots – a sprawling, beautiful country park that has something for everyone."
🚗 Parking Fees
Parking charges apply and vary by location. Pay when you leave.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring your own food for a budget-friendly and relaxed meal amidst nature.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lakeside Walks
Around the various lakes
Scenic paths offer stunning views and opportunities to spot local wildlife, including otters.
Adventure Playgrounds
Scattered throughout the park
Multiple well-maintained play areas cater to different age groups, ensuring fun for all children.
Miniature Steam Train
Various pick-up points
A charming ride offering a unique perspective of the park, perfect for families.
Wildlife Spotting
Woodlands and lakeside areas
Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife and the occasional otter sighting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Plan Your Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees
Parking charges apply and vary by location. Pay when you leave.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring your own food for a budget-friendly and relaxed meal amidst nature.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Lots of walking trails, so wear comfy shoes for exploring.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Ferry Meadows is great for dogs, with plenty of space to roam.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees
Parking charges apply and vary by location. Pay when you leave.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring your own food for a budget-friendly and relaxed meal amidst nature.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Lots of walking trails, so wear comfy shoes for exploring.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Ferry Meadows is great for dogs, with plenty of space to roam.
🚂 Train Tickets
The miniature train ride is £3 for a family return.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ferry Meadows Country Park is widely praised as a beautiful and versatile outdoor space with something for everyone. Visitors highlight its extensive walking trails, excellent playgrounds, and family-friendly amenities. While generally positive, some note that onsite cafes can be busy and parking fees apply.
"Lovely place for a day out .plenty of walks.
parks for kiddies cafe and ice-cream stall and a train to take you round the park.
We stayed on the caravan site for few days it was nice .you can also tents in a different area ."
Alison Topliss hunt
"Beautiful place has a lot to offer, play areas, BBQ, pedal boats, and lots of walking trails.
A small train that takes you on a tour of the park, cafes and toilet facilities.
Various parking locations which you pay when you leave.
Very pretty place, would definitely return for another visit."
maria coleman
"Ferry Meadows is hands down one of Peterborough’s best outdoor spots — a sprawling, beautiful country park that has something for everyone. Whether you're after a peaceful stroll, a fun family day out, or just some fresh air, this place delivers.
The sheer amount of space is one of its biggest draws. Wide open fields, scenic walking and cycling trails, and lakes that shimmer under the sun make it perfect for escaping the daily grind. You can walk for hours or just pitch up with a picnic and soak in the view.
The amenities are top-tier. There are well-maintained toilet facilities, a charming café for hot drinks and snacks, and even water sports and boat hire for the more adventurous. Parking is ample and reasonably priced, with easy access to key areas.
Parents will be especially pleased — the kids’ play areas are brilliant. There are multiple parks scattered throughout the grounds, each catering to different age groups, all clean, safe, and packed with fun equipment.
Ferry Meadows combines natural beauty with convenience, making it an ideal go-to all year round. Whether it's a quiet solo walk or a family day with the kids, it’s always a good idea."
Thomas Lorimer (LordTT)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ferry Meadows Country Park is located at Ham Lane, Peterborough PE2 5UU. It's easily accessible by car, with various parking areas available. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes is advisable.
Yes, there are several parking locations within the park. Charges apply and are typically paid upon exit.
Absolutely! Ferry Meadows is a popular spot for cyclists, with dedicated trails and plenty of space to ride.
Many of the main paths are paved and suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, offering good accessibility for most visitors.
Ferry Meadows Country Park is generally open year-round from dawn till dusk. Specific facilities like cafes and attractions may have their own operating hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Ferry Meadows Country Park itself is free. However, there are charges for parking and for specific activities like the miniature train and water sports.
The miniature steam train ride is priced at £3 for a family return journey, offering a delightful way to see the park.
For popular activities like boat hire or water sports, it's advisable to check the Nene Park website for booking information, especially during peak seasons.
While entry is free, discounts for activities are not widely advertised. It's best to check the official Nene Park website for any special offers or family packages.
Yes, Ferry Meadows has a Caravan and Motorhome Club campsite, offering pitches for those who wish to stay overnight.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Ferry Meadows offers a wide range of activities including walking, cycling, fishing, water sports, playgrounds, a miniature train, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Yes, the park boasts numerous walking trails along the river and lakes, suitable for all fitness levels. Some trails can extend for miles.
Absolutely! With excellent playgrounds, a miniature train, and open spaces, it's a fantastic destination for a family day out.
Yes, fishing is permitted in designated areas. You'll need to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits.
There are two onsite cafes offering refreshments and snacks. Many visitors also bring picnics to enjoy by the lakes or in designated picnic areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The lakeside views, especially during sunrise and sunset, offer stunning photographic opportunities. The woodlands and wildlife also provide great subjects.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or at specific times. It's recommended to check with Nene Park management for their drone policy before flying.
You might capture various bird species, waterfowl, and if you're lucky, otters.
The open meadows, mature trees, and water bodies create diverse landscape photography opportunities throughout the seasons.
The miniature train, the play areas with children, and the reflections on the water are popular subjects for photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Pack a picnic to enjoy in the open spaces, or utilize the onsite cafes for snacks. The park's vastness means kids can run freely, and the water sports and boat rides offer extra excitement for a small fee. It's an ideal spot for a full day of family adventure and exploration.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog under control, especially near wildlife and water bodies, and always clean up after them. The open fields and riverside paths provide plenty of sniffing opportunities, making it a happy place for both you and your canine companion.
🏃♀️ Runners & Fitness Enthusiasts
Many locals use Ferry Meadows for their Parkrun, a popular 5k event held regularly. The scenic surroundings make for an enjoyable running experience, whether you're aiming for a personal best or just enjoying a refreshing workout.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Ferry Meadows by Bike
For those without their own bikes, bike hire services might be available nearby or through local Peterborough providers. Cycling is a fantastic way to combine exercise with sightseeing, allowing you to easily access different areas like the playgrounds, cafes, and scenic viewpoints. Remember to be mindful of pedestrians and other park users to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Some of the more adventurous cyclists might explore the longer routes extending beyond the park, such as the path heading west along the Nene, which can take you all the way to Wansford. This offers a great opportunity for a longer day trip, combining the park's amenities with the surrounding countryside.
Family Fun at Ferry Meadows
+1Beyond the playgrounds, the miniature steam train offers a delightful journey through the park, a particular hit with younger visitors. For those seeking more active fun, water sports and boat rides are available for an additional charge, adding an element of adventure to the day. The open fields and lakeside areas are also perfect for picnics and casual games, making it easy to spend an entire day here.
Parents often praise the park's safety and cleanliness, making it a stress-free environment for a family outing. The presence of cafes and toilet facilities adds to the convenience, ensuring that all basic needs are met. It's a place where children can explore nature, burn off energy, and create lasting memories.
+1Wildlife Encounters
The park is particularly known for its otter population, which can sometimes be spotted along the riverbanks or lakes. While sightings are not guaranteed, the possibility adds an exciting element to any visit. Early mornings or late afternoons are often the best times to increase your chances of seeing these elusive animals.
Beyond otters and birds, keep an eye out for other small mammals and insects. The natural beauty of Ferry Meadows provides a peaceful backdrop for wildlife observation, making it a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitats.
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