Longthorpe Tower: A Medieval Masterpiece of Wall Paintings and History
Explore Longthorpe Tower’s stunning 14th-century medieval murals and immerse yourself in one of England’s finest historic treasures.
Longthorpe Tower, located in Peterborough, England, is a remarkable 14th-century stone tower renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval wall paintings. Built around 1300 by Robert Thorpe as a status symbol attached to a fortified manor, the tower houses one of the most complete domestic mural schemes in northern Europe, depicting religious, secular, and moral themes. Now managed by English Heritage, it offers guided tours that bring its rich history and stunning artwork to life.
A brief summary to English Heritage - Longthorpe Tower
- Thorpe Rd, Peterborough, PE3 6LU, GB
- +443703331181
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Book your guided tour in advance, especially on weekends during the open season from April to November.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the tower’s narrow, steep staircases may be challenging for some visitors.
- Photography is generally allowed, so bring a camera to capture the intricate medieval wall paintings.
- Check opening times before visiting, as the tower is closed on weekdays and during winter months.
- The uppermost turret is not open to the public, but volunteers sometimes offer access for special views.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus route 3 or 4 from Peterborough city center to Thorpe Road, with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Services run hourly on weekends; check current timetables. The stop is about a 5-minute walk from the tower.
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Car
Drive from Peterborough city center to Longthorpe Tower via Thorpe Road, approximately 3 km west, taking about 10 minutes. Free parking is available near Botolph Church, roughly 300 meters from the tower. Note that the access path includes uneven surfaces.
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Walking
From Peterborough city center, a 40-minute walk along urban streets and Thorpe Road leads to the tower. The route is mostly flat but includes some uneven pavements, suitable for visitors with moderate mobility.
English Heritage - Longthorpe Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about English Heritage - Longthorpe Tower
A Testament to Medieval Status and Architecture
Longthorpe Tower stands as a rare surviving element of a fortified manor house built in the early 1300s by Robert Thorpe, a prominent local lawyer and official connected to Peterborough Abbey. The three-storey stone tower was designed more as a symbol of wealth and status than for military defense, reflecting the ambitions of its builder. Its robust construction and strategic position in the Longthorpe area of Peterborough mark it as a significant medieval architectural relic.The Unrivaled Medieval Wall Paintings
Inside, Longthorpe Tower is famed for its extraordinary collection of 14th-century wall paintings, created around 1330. These murals are among the most complete and best-preserved domestic medieval artworks in northern Europe, depicting a fascinating mixture of religious narratives, secular scenes, and moral allegories. Notable themes include the 'Three Living and the Three Dead,' a powerful memento mori reminding viewers of mortality, and a rare early depiction of the five senses. These paintings were whitewashed during the Reformation and remained hidden until rediscovered in the 20th century, preserving their remarkable detail.The Rediscovery and Conservation Journey
The murals were uncovered accidentally during World War II when a Home Guard volunteer struck the wall, revealing the hidden art beneath layers of whitewash. Subsequent careful restoration has preserved this unique artistic heritage, allowing visitors today to witness medieval life and beliefs through vivid imagery. The tower is now a Grade I listed building and Scheduled Monument, protected by law and cared for by English Heritage, with day-to-day management by Nene Park Trust.Engaging Guided Tours and Visitor Experience
Access to Longthorpe Tower is primarily through guided tours held on weekends from April to November. These tours, led by knowledgeable volunteers, provide deep insights into the history, symbolism, and artistry of the murals, enriching the visitor experience. The intimate scale of the tower—with two main rooms featuring the paintings—allows for close appreciation of the details. Visitors can also explore exhibits and displays that contextualize medieval life in Peterborough.Setting and Surroundings
Situated in a residential area about three kilometers west of Peterborough city center, the tower is surrounded by peaceful suburban greenery. Though small in footprint, its historic presence contrasts with the modern neighborhood, offering a tranquil escape into medieval England. The tower’s stone exterior and narrow spiral staircases evoke the atmosphere of a bygone era.Preserving a Cultural Treasure
Longthorpe Tower’s importance lies not only in its architecture but in its role as a cultural and historical archive. The murals provide rare visual documentation of 14th-century beliefs, social commentary, and artistry. The site continues to inspire historians, artists, and visitors, standing as a testament to England’s medieval heritage and the enduring power of art to connect past and present.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lynch Lodge
3.6 km
Step into history at Lynch Lodge, a beautifully preserved Georgian porch and unique holiday let nestled in the tranquil village of Alwalton near Peterborough.
English Heritage - Apethorpe Palace
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Trinity Bridge
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St Leonard's Priory, Stamford
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Stamford Castle
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The George
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The Warren House
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East Midlands Steam and Country Show
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Experience the rich heritage and vibrant culture at the East Midlands Steam and Country Show, where steam engines meet delicious local food and crafts.
Rushton Triangular Lodge
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English Heritage - Bushmead Priory
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England's finest surviving medieval priory refectory, where Augustinian canons once gathered to dine and pray.
Giant's Hill
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Explore the tranquil earthworks of Giant's Hill, a 12th-century unfinished motte castle steeped in medieval history and local legend.
Burrough on the Hill
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Burrough Hill - Iron Age Hillfort
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Guys Head Lighthouse
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Wash Viewpoint
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Discover the stunning landscapes and diverse birdlife at Wash Viewpoint, a must-visit bird watching area in Spalding, England.
Unmissable attractions to see
Flag Fen Archaeology Park
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Explore 3,500-year-old Bronze Age mysteries and immersive reconstructions at Flag Fen Archaeology Park near Peterborough.
Sacrewell Farm
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Explore rare breeds, historic watermill, award-winning play areas, and artisan crafts at Sacrewell Farm near Peterborough.
Elton Hall and Gardens
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Holme Fen National Nature Reserve
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Explore Britain’s lowest land point and the largest silver birch woodland in lowland Europe, a tranquil haven for wildlife and nature lovers.
Great Fen
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Explore the Great Fen’s restored wetlands and woodlands at Ramsey Heights, a thriving nature reserve rich in wildlife and community spirit.
Aversley Wood
16.5 km
A 62-hectare protected woodland sanctuary offering peaceful walks through diverse natural habitats near Sawtry.
Monks Wood National Nature Reserve
17.9 km
Cambridgeshire's ancient woodland sanctuary and UK's premier beetle hotspot with over 1,000 species.
Upwood Meadows
18.2 km
A serene National Nature Reserve showcasing vibrant wildflower meadows and rich wildlife near Huntingdon.
Hamerton Zoo Park
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Ramsey Abbey Gatehouse
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Bowthorpe Oak
19.4 km
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Roundwood Gin
19.6 km
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Warboys and Wistow Woods
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Magic Mountain
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Normanton Church
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Essential places to dine
Six Bells
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The Elm
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The Manor Hotel & Pub
22.4 km
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The Crown Inn
23.7 km
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The Steak House
25.2 km
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Chi Huntingdon
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Bella Italia - Huntingdon
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The Pheasant, Keyston
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A charming thatched country pub in Keyston offering traditional British cuisine, warm hospitality, and a cozy rural atmosphere.
The Barley Mow
27.3 km
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Hambleton Hall
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Hill Ephesus Restaurant
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Olmo Lounge
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A vibrant, inclusive dining spot on Huntingdon’s High Street offering diverse British and vegan-friendly cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Local Cafe
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The Windmill
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Hartford Mill - Pub & Carvery
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A friendly marina-side pub serving fresh carvery and classic dishes daily in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dunelm
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Essential Supermarket
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Hazelmere Home & Garden
27.4 km
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James Cox
27.5 km
Historic Huntingdon department store blending timeless elegance with diverse fashion, gifts, and suit hire since 1893.
Euro Shop
27.6 km
Huntingdon's authentic European supermarket bringing continental flavors and community together.
Peacocks
27.6 km
Affordable fashion for men, women, and children at Peacocks Huntingdon, your go-to clothing store in St Germain Walk.
Robert Goddard
27.6 km
A century-old fashion destination in Huntingdon, offering premium designer clothing and tailored pieces in a classic department-store setting.
Cards Direct
27.6 km
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NECTAR Polish Delicatessen (Huntingdon)
27.6 km
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Next
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TK Maxx
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CeX
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The Works
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The Purple Spell
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Patches
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Palmerston Arms
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The Brewery Tap
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The Draper's Arms - JD Wetherspoon
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Blind Tiger
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The Stoneworks Bar
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The Bumble Inn
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The Ostrich Inn
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Geneva Bar
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Bijou, Peterborough
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Charters Bar
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O'Neill'S Peterborough
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Embassy, Flares & Red Room Peterborough
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The Oxcart
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The Wonky Donkey Micro Pub
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The Lime Tree
4.0 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Met Lounge
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Angels Peterborough
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Montagu Club
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OutOut Nightclub
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Vibrant nightlife hub in St. Ives offering dynamic club nights, private events, and a lively atmosphere from 10pm to 4am Fridays and Saturdays.
The Lounge
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Tubes
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Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
Club Angel
48.5 km
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MASH
49.0 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
Vinyl Cambridge
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Dance through decades on a glowing LED floor at Vinyl Cambridge's throwback haven—2-for-1 drinks, VIP vibes, and non-stop retro anthems await in the city center.
Glitterbomb
49.1 km
Glitterbomb: A vibrant bar in Cambridge offering creative cocktails and an electrifying atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
High Five
49.2 km
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EBC Shop
49.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
Cambridge Lola Lo
49.2 km
Step into Cambridge Lola Lo, a vibrant tiki-themed nightclub with tropical vibes, lively dance floors, and a stunning rooftop terrace in the city centre.
Bar -OH
49.4 km
Experience the best of Cambridge nightlife at Bar -OH, where exquisite cocktails meet electrifying live music in a vibrant atmosphere.
Revolution Cambridge
49.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cambridge at Revolution, where delicious food, creative cocktails, and unforgettable moments await.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
