Nene Park

Nene Park - Dog Friendly Dog Friendly Attractions & Places in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire

Nene Park is a vast greenspace on the western edge of Peterborough, offering an extensive network of trails, lakes, meadows, woodlands and sports pitches to explore. Managed by the charitable Nene Park Trust, this destination provides a welcoming environment where visitors and their canine companions can enjoy fresh air, accessible paths, picnic spots and family-friendly attractions throughout the year. The River Nene weaves through the estate, linking six distinct areas and creating scenic riverside routes.

About Nene Park Trust
Since 1988, Nene Park Trust has been dedicated to caring for parks, greenspaces, heritage sites and community places across the region. As a pioneering charity, their work focuses on conserving wildlife, promoting biodiversity, celebrating local history and supporting health and wellbeing through sport, leisure and cultural activities. Community engagement projects and volunteer-led initiatives ensure the park continues to thrive for generations to come.

Parks & Places
Nene Park encompasses six key areas: Ferry Meadows, Orton Meadows, Orton Mere, Woodston Reach, Thorpe Meadows and The Rural Estate. Ferry Meadows boasts shimmering lakes and woodland walks, while Orton Meadows and Orton Mere offer peaceful riverside scenery. Woodston Reach features coastal-style landscapes, and Thorpe Meadows is home to a unique sculpture trail and welcoming café. The Rural Estate showcases open countryside, livestock grazing and gentle footpaths. Additional attractions include a community plant nursery, sports pitches and special project sites dotted around the park.

Watersports & Outdoor Fun
At the Nene Outdoors Watersports & Activity Centre, located in Ferry Meadows, visitors can try canoeing, paddleboarding and other adventure pursuits. With equipment hire, expert instruction and sheltered picnic areas overlooking the water, it’s a great spot for families, solo explorers and their dogs to enjoy a day outdoors, whether you’re dipping a paddle or simply soaking in the views.

Events & Community
Throughout the year, Nene Park hosts a varied events programme for all ages. Free Wellbeing Wanders led by Visitor Rangers provide social group strolls, while pond dipping sessions at Lynch Lake and bug hunts in Thorpe Meadows reveal the park’s hidden wildlife. Foodie Fridays at Ferry Meadows feature street food vendors, live music and outdoor seating. Visitors can also join Longthorpe Tower tours to uncover local history or try Archery for Everyone sessions at the activity centre.

Heritage & Projects
Nene Park Trust supports major heritage and infrastructure initiatives funded by bodies such as The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic England. The Community Greenspace project is improving paths, facilities and community events to meet regional growth, while the Norman Cross project preserves the site of the world’s first purpose-built prisoner-of-war camp, sharing its fascinating story with visitors.

From peaceful riverside walks to watersports adventures and lively community events, Nene Park offers a diverse range of experiences across its extensive landscapes. With accessible routes, picnic areas and a warm welcome for dog owners, it’s the perfect destination for outdoor lovers and their four-legged friends to explore nature, heritage and community spirit in Peterborough.