Thorpe Meadows Sculpture Trail
Discover art amidst nature at Thorpe Meadows Sculpture Trail, a serene escape with diverse sculptures and peaceful riverside walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms and fresh air
Thorpe Meadows Sculpture Trail
Best Time
Blossoms and fresh air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover art amidst nature at Thorpe Meadows Sculpture Trail, a serene escape with diverse sculptures and peaceful riverside walks.
"A perfect escape into nature—lush greenery, well-maintained trails, and peaceful surroundings."
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail involves walking, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the sculptures and paths. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Art
Bring your camera or phone to capture the unique sculptures and scenic views. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artistic Encounters
Throughout the trail
Discover a diverse collection of sculptures by various artists, each offering a unique visual experience.
Tranquil Nature Walks
Along the River Nene
Enjoy peaceful walks amidst lush greenery, perfect for relaxation and connecting with nature.
Local Artist Spotlights
Various installations
See how local artists interpret and interact with the sculptures, adding a personal touch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art & Nature
Sculpture Spotting Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail involves walking, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the sculptures and paths. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Art
Bring your camera or phone to capture the unique sculptures and scenic views. :iphone:
📚 Learn the Stories
Look for information panels near sculptures to understand their meaning and artist. :books:
🦢 Enjoy the Wildlife
Keep an eye out for swans and other local wildlife along the riverbanks. :duck:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail involves walking, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the sculptures and paths. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Art
Bring your camera or phone to capture the unique sculptures and scenic views. :iphone:
📚 Learn the Stories
Look for information panels near sculptures to understand their meaning and artist. :books:
🦢 Enjoy the Wildlife
Keep an eye out for swans and other local wildlife along the riverbanks. :duck:
🅿️ Parking Info
1 hour free parking is available, with a 24-hour charge of £2.50. :parking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Thorpe Meadows Sculpture Trail as a perfect escape into nature, offering lush greenery and peaceful surroundings ideal for walks and relaxation. While the sculptures are appreciated, some note that a few pieces show signs of wear, though this is seen by some as adding to their historical charm. It's a beloved spot for locals seeking a connection with art and the outdoors.
"This park is a perfect escape into nature—lush greenery, well-maintained trails, and peaceful surroundings. Ideal for walking, jogging, or just relaxing. A great spot to unwind and enjoy the outdoors!"
marlin gulam
"It is a beautiful spot for walking or jogging. During the lockdown, this location was a lifesaver. Seeing people enjoying nature on foot and not caring about the outside world was a breath of fresh air. Observing the state of some of the statues was disheartening. They bring back memories of a bygone era. I hope more people come to appreciate and learn the hidden history in all the pieces.
Here are some of the sculptures on display in the park are:
– Boundaries by Veronica Ryan
– Cormorant by Elizabeth Cooke
– Creature by Anne Nicholson
– Endless Omen by Emmanuel Jegede
– Festival Boat by Sokari Douglas Camp
– Helios XVI by Barry Mason
– Little Prince by Jane Ackroyd
– Odd Oaks by Nicholas Pope
– Outside In by John Foster
– People by Tolleck Winner
– Peterborough Arch by Lee Grandjean
– Quarry by Simon Perry
– Regeneration by Richard Gibson
– Under the Ocean, Under the Sea by Christine Angus
– Untitled 1989 by Miles Davies
– Untitled 1990 by Miles Davies
More information on the sculptures can be found on this site: https://peterboroughsculptures.co.uk"
Ronna Fu
"Lovely park, so relaxing to sit and watch the swans! Pub nearby for lunch and drinks (when the world resumes again!
Short walk to the nearby lock, slightly longer walk to Ferry Meadows (both recommended!)"
Jack Allen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Thorpe Meadows Sculpture Trail is located in Peterborough. You can reach it by car, with parking available on-site. Public transport options might involve local bus routes to nearby areas, followed by a walk. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information. +1
Yes, there is parking available. The first hour is free, and then it costs £2.50 for 24 hours.
Cycling is a great way to explore the area. The trail is part of a network of paths, making it accessible for cyclists.
While direct public transport to the trail's entrance might be limited, you can likely reach nearby areas in Peterborough via bus and then enjoy a walk or cycle to the trail.
Driving is generally the most convenient option. Alternatively, a combination of bus and a pleasant walk or cycle ride can be a good choice for those who prefer not to drive. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Thorpe Meadows Sculpture Trail is generally free. There are no admission fees to wander through the park and admire the sculptures.
The park and sculpture trail are typically open 24 hours a day, allowing for visits at any time.
No, there is no specific entrance fee for the sculptures themselves. The trail is an open public space.
While official guided tours might not be regularly scheduled, you can find information about the sculptures online and create your own self-guided tour. 
Yes, the trail is accessible 24 hours a day, so you can visit at night, though visibility of sculptures may be reduced.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a variety of sculptures, from abstract pieces to more representational art, created by different artists. Some are noted to be showing signs of age, adding a historical element.
The time needed depends on your pace and how long you spend admiring each sculpture. A leisurely walk can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours.
While the trail itself might have limited facilities, nearby Ferry Meadows and pubs offer amenities like restrooms and dining options.
Yes, children can enjoy exploring the sculptures and the natural surroundings. It's a great way to introduce them to art and nature.
Take your time, walk around each piece, and read any accompanying information. Consider the artist's intent and how the sculpture interacts with its environment.
📸 📸 Photography
The sculptures themselves offer unique photographic opportunities. The natural landscape, especially along the river, also provides beautiful backdrops.
Yes, photography is generally allowed. It's a great place to capture art in nature.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best natural light for photography, creating interesting shadows and highlights on the sculptures.
Many sculptures are visually striking. The 'Peterborough Arch' and 'Boundaries' are often mentioned, but exploring and finding your personal favorite is part of the fun.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check local regulations and any specific rules for Thorpe Meadows before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your children to explore the different shapes and forms of the sculptures, and perhaps even create their own stories about them. The natural surroundings also offer opportunities for spotting wildlife like swans, adding an element of discovery to the visit. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for little feet and perhaps a picnic to enjoy amidst the greenery.
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & Nature Lovers
It's an ideal spot to unwind, reflect, and enjoy the quiet beauty of the Cambridgeshire landscape. The combination of art installations and natural scenery makes for a truly rejuvenating experience.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
+2Take the time to study each piece, consider its placement within the landscape, and learn about the artist's background. The ongoing engagement with local creatives ensures the trail remains a dynamic space for artistic appreciation.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Sculptures
Many of these artworks are brought to life through animations created by Aïcha El Beloui, featuring local artists and poets sharing their favorite pieces. This initiative highlights the community's engagement with the art and adds another layer of appreciation for the trail.
+4While the sculptures are a primary draw, it's worth noting that some visitors have observed that certain pieces show signs of wear. This can be seen as a testament to their history and exposure to the elements, adding a unique character to the trail.
Nature and Recreation
This area is a popular spot for locals seeking a breath of fresh air and a break from urban life. During periods of lockdown, it was highlighted as a 'lifesaver' for many, emphasizing its importance as a green space for well-being.
For those looking for a more extended outing, Thorpe Meadows is a short walk from Ferry Meadows Country Park, offering further opportunities for recreation and exploration. A nearby pub also provides a convenient spot for refreshments after your visit.
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