Peterborough’s business landscape is ever-changing, with several openings and closings having already happened in 2026.
Perhaps most notably was the closure of the Mulberry Tree Farm in Hampton, which said goodbye to customers at the end of February.
News of the pub’s closure after little more than a decade was met with sadness by customers, but also cautious optimism at what the future held for the Kempley Close building.
In just a few months time, the building will become occupied by Hickory’s Smokehouse - a Southern-inspired BBQ restaurant with more than 30 restaurants across central England.
But what other exciting openings are taking place in Peterborough over the coming months.
We’ve taken a look at 6 new shops, restaurants and other businesses that have either opened, or will be opening in Peterborough in 2026.
Discover them below:
1. Tipsy Cow
Peterborough's newest bar, Tipsy Cow, will open on Friday, April 3. Appropriately located in Cowgate, the new bar will show show sports events, host quizes and networking events. The independently-owned bar will also feature an interactive dartboard, which can be booked for £8 per person, per hour. Photo: PT
2. Hickory's Smokehouse
The new Hickory’s Smokehouse, in Kempley Close, Hampton will replace the former Mulberry Tree Farm when it opens early this summer. The pub, which closed on February 28, is currently undergoing a major renovation ahead of reopening. The chain says that the new restaurant will include seating to suit every visit, from comfortable seating for smaller groups to larger tables perfect for celebrations and extended family get-togethers. Photo: PT
3. Lidl
Construction of the new Lidl store at The Boulevard in Hampton has been in progress for six months. The supermarket operator has revealed that work is on course for the store to open in six months time. Once completed it will bring the number of Lidl stores in Peterborough to five. Photo: PT
4. Laser Quest
The new Laser Quest Peterborough is to open in Brook Street on April 18 with the operators promising to continue the venue’s legacy as a go-to destination for laser tag. Now operators are promising a ‘new chapter in family entertainment’ as the long-established Laserforce venue transitions to become Laser Quest Peterborough. Photo: Provided