The Spring bank holiday is almost upon us, and current forecasts suggest that it could be a scorcher here in Peterborough.
With temperatures expected to hit 29C over the next few days, we really couldn’t have asked for better weather for the late-May bank holiday.
As we all know, hot and sunny bank holidays here in England don’t come around all that often, so making the most of them is key.
There are plenty of ways to cool-off here in Peterborough, such as going for a dip in the Lido or finding a patch of shade in Central Park, but it’s worth remembering that the city is surrounded by some of the most beautiful countryside in the UK.
These miles upon miles of rolling fields are home to dozens of quaint villages that you probably haven’t thought about visiting before.
With their cricket greens, thatched cottages and historic pubs, a trip to one of these beautiful villages is a great way to spend the Spring bank holiday.
There are literally dozens of villages to choose from, but we’ve hand-picked eight of the best ones near Peterborough that you should consider visiting:
1. Wadenhoe
Located on the banks of the River Nene, Wadenhoe is roughly a 30-minute drive from Peterborough city centre, making it easily accessible for a day out. Comprising just a few streets, the quaint village is home to just over 200 people and surrounded by rich countryside. Wadenhoe is packed with stunning stone buildings akin to those found in the Cotswolds, providing plenty of inspiration for amateur photographers. Photo: Richard Croft
2. Barnack
Located between Stamford and Peterborough, near to RAF Wittering, the charming village of Barnack is well worth a visit this bank holiday. Surrounded by miles of untouched countryside, the village is a great place to park up and just walk in the sunshine. A visit to the village wouldn't be complete without a pit-stop at the local pub, The Millstone. Photo: John Salmon
3. Buckworth
Just a quick glance at a map will tell you how isolated Buckworth is. However, visitors will soon come to realise that's a positive, not a negative. Located a couple of miles west of the A1, the tiny village has a cricket club, church and stunning scenery. How quintessentially English! Photo: Hugh Venables
4. Castor
Castor may be sandwiched between the A1 and A47, but don't let that put you off visiting. Despite its small size, Castor has more than one pub and boasts beautiful walks down to the nearby River Nene. Access from Peterborough couldn't be simpler. Photo: AMR