Dinosaur room
1 / 10

Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery

4.6
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore local history, art, and a famous sci-fi exhibition in a beautiful Georgian townhouse.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Dinosaur room

Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore local history, art, and a famous sci-fi exhibition in a beautiful Georgian townhouse.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A great museum with plenty to see, especially the Doctor Who exhibition!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Doctor Who Ticket Tip

The Doctor Who exhibition has a separate fee. Check prices and book in advance to guarantee entry!

🚶‍♀️ Free General Entry

Most of the museum is free to enter, making it a great budget-friendly option for exploring local history and art.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Doctor Who Exhibition

Doctor Who Exhibition

Special Exhibition Hall

Step into the TARDIS with iconic props, costumes, and memorabilia from the beloved sci-fi series. A must-see for Whovians!

Victorian Operating Theatre

Victorian Operating Theatre

Medical History Section

A chillingly preserved Victorian operating theatre offering a stark glimpse into historical medical practices.

Local History Collections

Local History Collections

Various Galleries

Explore Peterborough's rich past, from Roman artifacts to social history, all housed within a beautiful Georgian townhouse.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Doctor Who Exhibition Tickets

The popular Doctor Who exhibition has an entry fee, so factor this into your budget. It's a major draw for fans and often mentioned as a highlight, so book ahead if possible, especially during peak times.

Free General Admission

While special exhibitions like Doctor Who have a fee, general entry to the Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery is free! This makes it an accessible option for exploring local history, art, and fascinating medical exhibits.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, family fun
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Katharine of Aragon, the people’s queen is buried at Peterborough Cathedral, she’s not the only queen to be buried here however. Watch out for our other videos that discuss Mary Queen of Scots. #KatharineOfAragon #PeterboroughHistory #TudorFestival #HistoricalEvent #RoyalHeritage #Peterboroughmuseum #KOA2024 #MedievalCelebration #catherineofaragon #CulturalHeritage #Peterboroughcathedral #Peterbo...
@historywithjackson
19K likes • 366.5K views

🎟️ Doctor Who Ticket Tip

The Doctor Who exhibition has a separate fee. Check prices and book in advance to guarantee entry! TikTok+1

🚶‍♀️ Free General Entry

Most of the museum is free to enter, making it a great budget-friendly option for exploring local history and art. Reddit

New Doctor Who exhibition at Peterborough Museum ! Really incredible props and costumes including many original from the show itself over at 62 year history totally worth a visit #doctorwho #peterbough #daleks #cybermen #seadevils #doctorwhoexhibition
@bunnygalore
18.6K likes • 140.7K views
What is SlideFest?! SlideFest Peterborough 2025 Join us for an inspiring afternoon of powerful photography and storytelling at the Peterborough Museum & Art Gallery. Four acclaimed photographers — Hicham Gardaf, Kalpesh Lathigra, Amak Mahmoodian, and Chris Neophytou — share visual stories exploring migration, identity, and belonging. Curated by Aisha Zia and Mohamed Somji as part of the Platfor...
62gladstonest
127 likes • 3.5K views

☕ Cafe Break

Enjoy a coffee and snack at the spacious cafe, which offers outdoor seating. Reddit

🚗 Parking Nearby

Paid parking is available a short walk from the museum. Allow around 5 minutes to walk from the car park. Reddit

Thursday 5th June,Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery
venables1529
26 likes • 316 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Doctor Who Ticket Tip

The Doctor Who exhibition has a separate fee. Check prices and book in advance to guarantee entry! TikTok+1

🚶‍♀️ Free General Entry

Most of the museum is free to enter, making it a great budget-friendly option for exploring local history and art. Reddit

☕ Cafe Break

Enjoy a coffee and snack at the spacious cafe, which offers outdoor seating. Reddit

🚗 Parking Nearby

Paid parking is available a short walk from the museum. Allow around 5 minutes to walk from the car park. Reddit

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

Plan for at least 3 hours to fully explore all the exhibits, especially if visiting the Doctor Who section. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery for its engaging exhibits, particularly the popular Doctor Who attraction and the historical displays like the Victorian operating theatre. The free general admission is a significant plus, making it an accessible and worthwhile visit for families and history buffs alike. While the Doctor Who exhibition has a fee, it's widely considered a highlight.

"A great museum and I particularly enjoyed the Doctor Who exhibition (£5). Very well set out with lots to enjoy. The cafe was great too!"

Debs Middleton

"Visited Museum today (12:00) to view the "Dr Who Exhibition", this was a Payable event, but we visited the other areas of the Museum, History Local/Social, Sea/Dinosaurs, Medical/Operating , French Army. Car Parking is a Short (5 minutes) walk away, we Payed £5:50 for Three Hours.
There is also a Gift shop, Tea Shop, and Toilets."

Graham Fowkes

"Easily accessible museum and was impressed by a friendly staff who was welcoming and spent time to explain what would be expected in the museum.
Full of interactive activities for engagement especially for kids.
Worth a visit when you’re in Peterborough."

Villia Ho

What People Like

Doctor Who exhibition
Victorian operating theatre
Free general entry

What People Dislike

Fee for special exhibitions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is conveniently located and easily accessible. It's only a five-minute walk from Peterborough station, making it a great option for day-trippers arriving by train. TikTok Paid parking is available nearby if you're driving. Reddit

Yes, there is paid parking available behind the museum. It's a short, approximately 5-minute walk to the entrance. Reddit

The museum is generally accessible, with friendly staff who can assist with any specific needs. Many areas are well-suited for visitors with mobility challenges. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a popular destination for those traveling to Peterborough, with many visitors making a special trip for the Doctor Who exhibition. Reddit

The museum is centrally located, making it a pleasant walk from most parts of the city center. It's also very close to the train station. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to the Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery is free! However, special exhibitions, such as the popular Doctor Who exhibition, require a separate ticket purchase. Reddit

The Doctor Who exhibition has an entry fee, often around £5. It's highly recommended for fans and is considered worth the journey by many. TikTokReddit

Tickets for special exhibitions can usually be purchased on the day, but it's advisable to check the museum's website or social media for any advance booking recommendations, especially during busy periods. TikTok

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery website for the most up-to-date information on daily opening times and any special event schedules. Instagram

While general entry is free, discounts for special exhibitions might be available for certain groups. It's always a good idea to inquire directly with the museum or check their website for any concessionary rates. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Highlights include the unofficial Doctor Who exhibition, a preserved Victorian operating theatre, local history collections, art galleries, and exhibits on the French army. TikTokReddit

Yes, the museum is very family-friendly with interactive activities designed to engage children. The Doctor Who exhibition is also a big hit with younger visitors. Reddit

Visitors generally recommend allowing at least 3 hours to see everything, especially if you plan to visit the Doctor Who exhibition and explore all the different sections. Reddit

Information on guided tours may vary. It's best to check the museum's schedule or inquire at the information desk upon arrival for any available guided experiences. Reddit

The art gallery features a diverse collection, including local art and temporary exhibitions. Instagram reels have showcased photography events held here, suggesting a dynamic art program. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a nice, spacious cafe at the museum that offers seating both inside and outside. It's a great spot to relax and refuel. Reddit

The cafe typically offers a selection of drinks, snacks, and light meals. It's a convenient place to grab a coffee or a bite to eat during your visit. Reddit

Being centrally located, there are numerous restaurants and cafes in the surrounding area of Peterborough if you prefer to dine out. TikTok

While there's a cafe, it's generally best to check the museum's policy on bringing outside food. Picnics might be permitted in designated outdoor areas if available. Reddit

It's advisable to check with the cafe staff directly about specific dietary options. They may be able to accommodate common requests. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most areas of the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially in temporary exhibition spaces. TikTok

The Doctor Who exhibition offers many fun photo opportunities with props and displays. The Victorian operating theatre and the Georgian architecture also make for striking images. TikTok+1

Flash photography is often discouraged or prohibited in museums to protect delicate exhibits. Please look for signage or ask staff if unsure. TikTok

The Doctor Who exhibition is a prime spot for fan photos. The unique historical exhibits, like the operating theatre, and the museum's architecture also provide great backdrops. TikTok+1

Yes, the museum hosts photography events like SlideFest, featuring acclaimed photographers sharing visual stories, indicating a vibrant arts and photography scene. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery is a fantastic outing for families. The free general admission makes it an easy choice, and the interactive exhibits are designed to keep children engaged and entertained. Reddit The Doctor Who exhibition is a huge draw for kids (and adults!) who are fans of the show, offering a fun, immersive experience with props and costumes. TikTok+1

Beyond Doctor Who, the museum's local history displays and the intriguing Victorian operating theatre can spark curiosity. The spacious cafe also provides a convenient spot for a break, with outdoor seating available. Reddit Plan for at least a few hours to explore everything at a comfortable pace for little ones. Reddit

🚀 Sci-Fi Enthusiasts

For Doctor Who fans, the Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery is an absolute pilgrimage site. The unofficial Doctor Who exhibition is a major highlight, featuring a remarkable collection of props, costumes, and memorabilia from across the show's history. TikTok+2

Many visitors travel specifically for this exhibition, finding the £5 entry fee a small price to pay for such an extensive and well-curated display. It's a chance to get up close with iconic elements of the Doctor's adventures and relive cherished moments from the series. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find plenty to explore at the Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery. The Victorian Operating Theatre offers a chillingly realistic glimpse into historical medical practices, a truly unique exhibit. Reddit Additionally, the museum houses extensive local history collections, detailing Peterborough's past from Roman times through to more recent social history. Reddit

The Georgian townhouse setting itself adds to the historical ambiance. The free entry to these sections makes it an accessible way to delve into the region's heritage and understand its development over centuries. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unofficial Doctor Who Exhibition

The Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery is a must-visit for any Doctor Who fan, thanks to its unofficial but highly acclaimed exhibition. This attraction brings the world of the Doctor to life with an impressive collection of props, costumes, and memorabilia spanning the show's long history. Visitors can expect to see iconic items that have featured in various episodes, offering a tangible connection to the beloved science fiction series. TikTok+2

This exhibition is a significant draw, with many travelers making a special trip to Peterborough specifically to experience it. The £5 entry fee is considered well worth it by fans who appreciate the detailed displays and the chance to immerse themselves in the universe of the Time Lord. It's a fantastic opportunity to revisit favorite moments and discover behind-the-scenes details. TikTokReddit

Pro-tip: Given its popularity, consider booking tickets in advance if possible, especially during weekends or school holidays, to avoid disappointment. The exhibition is a highlight that truly elevates the museum experience for many visitors. TikTokReddit

A Glimpse into Medical History

Beyond its pop culture appeal, the Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery offers a fascinating look into the past with its Victorian Operating Theatre. This exhibit is a stark and compelling display, showcasing the medical practices and environment of the 19th century. It provides a unique educational experience, highlighting the evolution of medicine and the conditions faced by patients and practitioners alike. Reddit

The museum also features other historical collections, including those related to local social history and even exhibits on the French Army, offering a broader context of Peterborough's past. These exhibits are often praised for their connection to the local area, making history feel more personal and relevant. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the well-curated nature of these historical displays, finding them both informative and engaging. The free entry to these sections makes them highly accessible for anyone interested in delving into the rich tapestry of human history. Reddit

Art and Community Events

The Art Gallery component of the Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery provides a space for both permanent collections and rotating exhibitions. While specific details on the permanent art collection are less frequently highlighted in social media, the museum does host significant art-related events. Instagram

For instance, the museum has been a venue for events like SlideFest, an afternoon dedicated to powerful photography and storytelling. These events feature acclaimed photographers exploring themes of migration, identity, and belonging, showcasing the museum's role as a hub for contemporary artistic discourse and community engagement. Instagram

This suggests that the museum is not just a repository of history but also a dynamic cultural space that supports and showcases diverse artistic talent, making it a valuable destination for art enthusiasts and those interested in current social commentary through visual mediums. Instagram

You may also like