Longthorpe Tower is one of Peterborough's historic gems. The stone tower, built between about 1290 and 1300, is the only surviving part of a 14th century fortified manor house and its great significance derives from the spectacular wall paintings in the main first-floor room. Added about 1330, they are among the most impressive examples of medieval domestic wall painting in northern Europe.

The paintings give a vivid glimpse into the medieval mind, with a mix of religious and secular themes. Recognisable themes include the Wheel of Life, the story of King David, and the Nativity of Christ. Richly decorated scenes show people from every walk of life, from kings to animals, saints to knights and musicians.

Longthorpe Tower continues to be cared for by English Heritage, but the day to day management of visits to Longthorpe Tower changed hands from Vivacity to Nene Park Trust in 2021.

The Tower is open for pre-booked 1 hour tours on Saturdays and Sundays from 2 April until the 30 October, 10am – 4.30pm (last admission is 3.30pm). The guided tours are led by our team of enthusiastic and experienced volunteers, who have a passion for the history of the Tower and bring its wall paintings to life.

Admission prices:

	With donation (gift aid)	Without donation
Adult	£5.50	£5.00
Child	£3.30	£3.00
Concessions*	£5.00	£4.50
Under 5s	FREE	FREE
English Heritage Members	FREE	FREE

*Concessions include: students, job seekers, over 65s. Please produce the relevant ID card at your visit.

Book your visit here

Pre-booked groups and school parties will be able to view the Tour at other times by prior arrangement. Please contact [email protected]

How to find it:

Longthorpe Tower is located two miles west of Peterborough city centre, off the A1260 and A47 in Longthorpe. Address is: Thorpe Road, Peterborough. PE3 6LU.

Parking:

There is free parking for approximately 20 cars, located 100 metres away from the Tower at St Botolph's Church. Please note that these spaces are shared with the church. There is some on-street parking available close to Longthorpe Tower, as well as in Longthorpe Village.

Access:

Access to Longthorpe Tower is restricted due to narrow access points and staircases. To find out more, go to our more detailed Access page.

Review 2022

"I just wanted to take a few minutes to heap praise on the lady who was working at Longthorpe Tower on Saturday April 2nd. We called in on the off chance, expecting little more than the chance to look inside the tower, but instead were treated to an hour long talk by an extremely personable and informative lady about the history of the tower and of the era in general. She was both charming and enthusiastic and shed light on things we simply wouldn't have noticed otherwise. The best £5.50 I've spent in a very long while and I fully expect to see her hosting her own TV show in years to come. Please pass on our thanks."