Peterborough Cathedral

With its striking West Front, Peterborough Cathedral is a standout masterpiece of medieval architecture. You might expect the interior to be less impressive by comparison, but trust me, it's nothing short of breathtaking. The Romanesque interior has remained largely unchanged for 800 years, and following a significant restoration after the fire in November 2001, it gleams with renewed splendor.

This cathedral is a fantastic destination for visitors of all ages. If you’re into tech, there's an interactive trail with augmented reality animations available for download. Just search for Gamar Ltd in your app store and look for the Peterborough Cathedral Trail. For families, there are explorer backpacks for the little ones and an activity book that older kids will love.

With over 1,350 years of Christian worship at this site, the cathedral is a trove of religious and historical artifacts. Don't miss the Saxon carvings from earlier buildings, the one-of-a-kind painted nave ceiling, and the stunning fan vaulting in the 'new' building. The Victorian Choir stalls are a marvel of detail, and history buffs will appreciate the burial sites of two queens: Katharine of Aragon and Mary Queen of Scots. The Cathedral Visitor Centre houses a fascinating timeline of objects, narrating the site’s history from Roman times to today. Plus, there's a model that shows how the abbey was constructed during medieval times. Originally closed in 1539 by order of Henry VIII, the abbey was spared demolition and instead became the Cathedral of a new diocese in 1541. Today, it remains the seat of the Bishop of Peterborough and serves as the mother church for a diocese covering Northamptonshire, Rutland, and much of Peterborough. While you're there, take a moment to appreciate the tranquil gardens surrounding the cathedral, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.