Stay Close to Nature: The Appeal of Choosing Ascot House near Ferry Meadows
Nestled just a few miles from Peterborough city centre, Ferry Meadows lies at the heart of Nene Park and is one of the region’s most beloved outdoor destinations.
Its rich mix of meadows, waterways, woodland, lakes, trails, and recreational activities makes it a magnet for families, walkers, cyclists, nature lovers, and outdoor adventurers alike.
By staying locally for instance at Ascot House Hotel / serviced apartments, guests are perfectly placed to enjoy every facet of this beautiful setting, while also benefitting from the comforts, flexibility and security of more substantial accommodation than a traditional hotel or campsite. Below is an in-depth exploration of the advantages that your guests gain from staying close, and why Ascot House offers a compelling alternative to camping or standard hotel stays.

The Allure of Ferry Meadows: More Than Just a Park
1. Proximity & Convenience
Ferry Meadows is less than three miles from Peterborough city centre, making it remarkably accessible for day visits or extended stays. The park forms the central section of Nene Park, extending over a ten-kilometre stretch along the River Nene.
It is served by the Nene Valley Railway, with stations such as Orton Mere providing access to the eastern end of the park.
2. Diverse Outdoor Activities
Ferry Meadows is far from being a passive “green space” it is alive with opportunities for active and contemplative recreation:
Cycling & walking trails: Many paths are shared or waymarked for cyclists, with bike hire available locally. Watersports & boating: Lakeside hosts a hub for pedalos, kayaks, paddleboards and other “pay & play” water activity options.
Fishing, orienteering, geocaching, and nature spotting: Quiet corners and meadows allow wildlife watching and contemplative walks. Family-friendly features: Multiple playgrounds catering to various age groups, miniature railway rides, cafés, and organised events all year round.
Seasonal or themed experiences: From guided nature walks or history trails to special events, there is almost always something going on. In short, staying right on the doorstep of Ferry Meadows means your guests don’t have to drive, transport bulky equipment, arrange storage elsewhere, or waste time commuting in and out each day.
Why Staying Locally at Ascot House Adds Value
Key benefits to Ascot House guests when stopping close to the park:
1. Easy Storage and Security for Outdoor Equipment
One obstacle to enjoying nature is the hassle of handling gear bikes, kayaks, paddles, fishing tackle, even wet boots or paddling shoes. By staying at a local base that can safely store equipment overnight, guests enjoy:
- Peace of mind that expensive bikes, boats, and outdoor gear are locked away securely
- No need to transport heavy equipment back and forth each day
- Convenience to set off early or return late without worrying about logistics
Ascot House offers secure bike racks, undercover storage, trailer parking, & designated equipment rooms that set it apart from standard / traditional hotels.
2. The Suite-for-the-Price-of-a-Room Concept
One of the greatest selling points is that at Ascot House, guests can enjoy apartment-style accommodation (suites, one or two bedroom units) with kitchens, lounge areas, and laundry facilities often for a cost comparable to a standard hotel room.
- Ascot House offers one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and executive suites/apartments with private kitchens, washer/dryer, and lounge areas.
- Apartments include conveniences such as refrigerators, microwaves, and full kitchens.
- The facility offers flexible stay lengths (1 night, 1 week, even longer terms) which is ideal for a mix of travellers.
- Free parking, free WiFi and self-parking are included features.
Because guests can self-cater, they have flexibility over meals (especially helpful for families, dietary restrictions, or travellers on flexible budgets). They also gain more living space, privacy, and freedom compared to a standard hotel room.
A Superior Alternative to Camping
Camping in or around Ferry Meadows is popular, especially for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature. But there are several trade-offs. Ascot House offers a compelling alternative with many of the benefits of camping plus comforts and conveniences camping often lacks. Here’s how:
| Feature | Camping | Staying at Ascot House |
| Immersion in nature / waking near trails | ✔️ | ✔️ (just minutes away) |
| Sense of adventure / simplicity | ✔️ | Partially (you still have local access) |
| Exposure to weather, insects, and noise | ❗ | Much lower — indoor shelter, solid structures |
| Toilets & showers | Shared or basic | Private bathrooms with modern plumbing |
| Cooking / kitchen facilities | Often rudimentary (camp stove, tent kitchen) | Full kitchens, appliances, ample cupboard & fridge space |
| Storage & security for gear | Risk of theft, wet storage, inconvenient | Safe, dry, locked storage onsite |
| Sleep comfort | Sleeping bags, ground mats | Quality beds, sound insulation, climate control |
| Flexibility and accessibility | May have restricted access during poor weather or seasons | All-weather, all-season access; no need to erect tents or pack/unpack daily |
In effect, Ascot House gives your guests many advantages of camping the closeness to nature, flexibility, and relaxed pace but without the discomforts, logistical challenges, or uncertainties.
Ferry Meadows Accommodation Ideal for Families, Couples, Groups
Because Ascot House Hotel offers multiple types of accommodation (from “hotel style” rooms to full apartments), we can cater to a wide spectrum of guests:
- Couples or solo travellers: who want simplicity yet more comfort than a hotel room
- Families: who benefit from separate bedrooms, cooking facilities, and extra space
- Groups: wedding parties, activity groups, or corporate retreats looking for coordination under one roof
- Individuals or families staying for several nights can unpack, settle in, and enjoy the stay more leisurely than they might in a standard hotel.

