Peterborough People
More Than You Imagine
Peterborough’s history and culture have been shaped by remarkable individuals — from monarchs and martyrs to inventors, artists, and everyday heroes. Their stories weave through the city’s past and present, leaving legacies that continue to inspire, challenge, and connect our community today.
A City of Characters
From pioneering engineers to celebrated authors, sports stars, and performers, Peterborough has been home to people whose achievements have reached far beyond the city’s borders. Their stories reflect the character of the place — determination, creativity, and a knack for making a mark on the world.
This is the birthplace of Sir Henry Royce, co-founder of Rolls-Royce and a master of precision engineering; the poetic homeland of John Clare, the 19th-century “Peasant Poet” whose verses still capture the English countryside; and the adopted home of Edith Cavell, the First World War nurse remembered for her courage and compassion.
Modern voices and talents continue the tradition, from sports legends and television personalities to artists whose work shines on national and international stages. Each has their own story, rooted in Peterborough’s streets, villages, and landscapes — and each adds a thread to the city’s rich human tapestry.
Catherine of Aragon (1485–1536)
Born in Spain, Catherine of Aragon was the first wife of King Henry VIII and Queen of England from 1509...
Dr Thomas James Walker
A pioneering surgeon at Peterborough Infirmary (now the Museum) from 1862 to 1906. A Fellow of the Royal...
Edith Cavell (1865–1915)
Although born in Swardeston, Norfolk, Edith Cavell’s story has strong roots in Peterborough. As a young...
Eric Dodson (1920–2000)
Born in Peterborough, Eric Dodson was a versatile British character actor whose warm, authoritative...
George Alcock (1912–2000)
Born and raised in Peterborough, George Alcock was one of Britain’s most remarkable amateur astronomers,...
Henry Royce (1863–1933)
Born in Alwalton, near Peterborough, Sir Frederick Henry Royce rose from humble beginnings to become one...
Jake Humphrey
Born in Peterborough in 1978, Jake Humphrey is a well-known British television presenter, best recognised...
James Blades (1901-199)
Born in Peterborough, James Blades became one of the world’s most respected percussionists and an...
John Clare (1793–1864)
John Clare (1793–1864) is celebrated as one of England’s finest rural poets, famed for capturing the...
John Fletcher (1579–1625)
John Fletcher (1579–1625) was one of the most celebrated playwrights of the early 17th century and a key...
Larry Taylor (1918–2003)
Character actor Larry Taylor was born in Peterborough and went on to enjoy a long career in British film...
Louis Smith
Born in Peterborough in 1989, Louis Smith is one of Britain’s most successful male gymnasts. Specialising...
Maxim (Keith Andrew Palmer)
Born Keith Palmer in Peterborough in 1967, Maxim is best known as the charismatic MC of the pioneering...
Paul Nicholas
Born in Peterborough, Paul Nicholas is a multi-talented actor, singer, and producer whose career has...
Sir Henry Hodge (1944–2009)
Born in Peterborough, Sir Henry Hodge became one of the UK’s most respected and progressive legal minds,...
Walter Cornelius (c. 1913–1983)
Walter Cornelius (c. 1913–1983) was one of Peterborough’s most colourful local legends. A Latvian-born...