What are the best shops in Peterborough?
Ready for a healthy dose of retail therapy? If you’re thinking about trying somewhere new to upgrade your wardrobe, these shops in Peterborough make a great option.
With several shopping centres, outdoor markets and garden centres from which to choose, experiencing the culture of this lively cathedral city is a must for any shopping enthusiast. Read our guide below to find out everything that you need to know about shops in Peterborough.
Read more: Things to do in Peterborough
Queensgate: Peterborough’s shopping centre
The largest, widest-ranging selection of shops in Peterborough can be found at Queensgate. Whether you prefer to shop at H&M, Primark, Schuh or F. Hinds, there’s something suitable for every taste there.
You’ll also find an array of options for food and drink at Queensgate. Along with the usual favourites including Greggs, Costa Coffee and McDonald’s, you can also find pubs like The Queen’s Head and Caribbean restaurant Turtle Bay nearby.
In addition to wheelchair-accessible shops in Peterborough, Queensgate can also be reached via footbridge from Peterborough railway station, making it a convenient option for those going to Peterborough by train.
Brotherhood Shopping Park
If you haven’t found everything that you need from the shops in Peterborough city centre, heading to Brotherhood Shopping Park could make an excellent choice. Plus, you can get there easily on a short bus journey from the bus station at Queensgate.
The stores at Brotherhood Shopping Park include Asda Living, M&S, Next and TK Maxx. So, whether you’re looking for a new outfit or a couple of finishing touches for your home décor, you’ll be able to browse a fantastic selection.
Peterborough One Retail Park
PE1 Retail Park will cater for all of your shopping needs. This modern, luxury shopping centre in Peterborough is home to a number of leading stores to help to furnish your home and garden, including fitted furniture company Hammonds. If you need to stock up on groceries, you’ll also find a flagship Aldi store there, open until 10pm throughout the week.
Van Hage Garden Centre in Peterborough
The main attraction of the PE1 Retail Park is Van Hage. At this state-of-the-art garden centre, you’ll find an array of quality garden and outdoor furniture, luxury furnishings, gardening supplies and unique gifts for sale.
Discover fresh local produce and frozen specialist meals at the garden centre’s own Food Market. If you’d like a bite to eat during your visit, the Van Hage Café serves breakfast until 11am daily and hot food until 2:30pm.
Rivergate shopping centre: Covered independent and established shops
Right in the centre of Peterborough, Rivergate Shopping Centre (PE1 1EL) has been part of the city’s retail mix since 1989, sitting close to the River Nene at Viersen Platz/Bridge Street.
It’s a fully undercover shopping, food, and drink destination, which makes it a dependable option year-round, especially when the weather turns. Inside, the focus is on independent traders, with a mix of shops and services covering everything from clothing to hair and beauty, alongside a growing line-up of casual dining.
You’ll find local favourites here, including Rico’s Coffee Shop, Double Bubble Tea House, a Greek restaurant, and Fratelli’s Italian, giving it a more personal, community-led feel than larger centres. It’s also well placed if you’re heading to or from the nearby Weston Homes Stadium, adding to its role as a convenient local hub.
Opening hours are typically Monday to Saturday 9:00 to 17:30, and Sunday 11:00 to 17:00, keeping things straightforward for a quick visit or a longer browse. This is definitely one of the best places to find shops in Peterborough.
Markets in Peterborough
If you enjoy the atmosphere of shopping at an outdoor market, you’ll be spoiled for choice in Peterborough. Firstly, at the heart of the city centre, you’ll find the historic Cathedral Square, home to the distinctive city Guildhall.
You’ll always find a few traders on and around Cathedral Square but the biannual Peterborough Vegan Market is perhaps the most notable event. Operating since 2019, this market features vegan street food, sustainable jewellers, craft brewers, artisan bakers and more across over 40 individual stalls.
Bridge Street is home to Peterborough City Market, where you’ll be able to find a year-round supply of fresh produce, clothes and accessories from local traders. The all-new Food Hall there showcases the very best local meats, fish and deli foods.
Getting to the shops in Peterborough
Use our journey planner and book train tickets to Peterborough today if you’re ready to find your new favourites for the season. If you’re thinking of staying for the whole weekend, there are also plenty of quality hotels in Peterborough from which to choose. Whichever way you’d like to spend your time in the city, we’re with you.
