Looking for ways to keep the family entertained this summer without stretching your budget? Peterborough Family Hubs is delighted to bring back the Summer of Free Family Fun 2026 with an even more packed programme of activities designed to help families spend quality time together, try something new, and make lasting memories.
From outdoor adventures to creative experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy across July and August.
All events are completely free and there is no need to book – just turn up on the day!
What’s On
Circus Fun
Watch exciting circus performers and try your hand at a range of circus skills!
- Thursday 23 July
10am–12pm & 1pm–3pm
Bretton Rugby Club, PE3 8DG - Thursday 20 August
10am–12pm & 1pm–3pm (SEND families only session in the afternoon)
Woodfield Park (Charteris Centre), PE1 4XE
Animal Encounter
Get up close and personal with a range of rare and exotic animals from around the world.
- Monday 27 July
10am–12pm & 1pm–3pm
Honeyhill Family Hub, PE4 7DR
Ice Skating
Cool off this summer with a free session at the ice rink!
- Wednesday 29 July
10am–4pm
Planet Ice, PE3 8YN - Wednesday 12 August
10am–4pm
Planet Ice, PE3 8YN
Please note:
- Families should arrive on the hour to enjoy the full hour of skating
- Under-12s MUST wear gloves
- There is a charge for parking at Planet Ice
Forest Week
Explore nature and enjoy sensory outdoor activities—perfect for a summer day out with little ones. Suggested age range - 4-13.
John Clare's Countryside Picnic and Poems
- Tuesday 4 August
11am–1pm
John Clare Cottage, PE6 7ED
What's included?
- Museum entry
- Storytelling sessions
- Scavenger hunt
- Child & adult audio guides (ages 8+)
- Make clay nature tokens
- Sensory poetry writing & crafts with Roland
- Baby soft-play area & treasure baskets
Picnic & Refreshments
Bring your own picnic and enjoy the following refreshments provided:
- Tea & coffee
- Squash
- Fresh fruit
- Biscuits
Accessibility
The site includes uneven ground, grassy areas, steps, and a ladder within the museum. Breastfeeding and baby changing facilities available. Standard public toilets are available.
Please note, attendees are asked to use the nearby on-street parking within the village and to be considerate of local residents and their properties.
Urban Nature Makers Day
- Wednesday 5 August
11am–2pm
The Green Backyard, PE2 8AT
Activities
- Gardening activities including watering and planting
- Build your own bug hotel
- Create seed bombs
- Decorate plant labels
- Make nature collages
Wear clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting messy!
Accessibility
The site includes uneven ground, grassed areas. Standard public toilets are available.
Limited parking available onsite. Next nearest parking is across the road - Pleasure Fair Meadow Car Park (parking charges apply).
Wildlife Detectives in the Meadows
- Thursday 6 August
11am–2pm
Lynch Lake Community Hub, Ferry Meadows, PE2 5UU
Become a wildlife detective
- Follow a nature trail and spots signs of nature
- Explore pond dipping stations and discover fascinating pond creatures
- Bring your own lunch and enjoy a picnic in the Meadows
Activities include
- Make your own Detective Badge
- Nature sketching and wildlife drawing
- Add your artwork to the communal Detective Board
- Free Climbing Wall entry
Park at the Main Car Park (parking charges apply) and make your way to Lynch Lake Community Hub, located just past the Otter Playground.
Accessibility
Most paths are accessible, but some activities may take place on grass or uneven ground. Accessible toilets and parking are available on site.
Outdoor Cinema
Enjoy a family film together in the beautiful setting of Westraven Community Garden.
- Friday 14 August
10am–3pm
Westraven Community Garden, PE3 7LX - Hoppers (U) at 10am
- Encanto (U) at 1pm
Family Festival
A day of games, activities, food and music for the whole family to wrap up the summer holidays.
- Thursday 27 August
10am–2pm
Athletics Track, PE1 5BW
If you have any questions, please email familyhubprogramme@peterborough.gov.uk
