UK city that was incredible in 80s but now has ‘atmosphere of misery’
UK city once vibrant in the 80s now faces ‘atmosphere of misery’
Peterborough, a city in Cambridgeshire, has seen a notable increase in employment figures since 2014, with a 23.9% rise by 2024. Its population has also grown by 14.2% during the same timeframe, surpassing the national average by nearly double. Despite these metrics, the city’s residents describe a starkly different reality.
Commuter hub with affordable housing
Nestled just 48 minutes from London, Peterborough has been recognized as a budget-friendly option for those seeking to live near the capital. This affordability, however, hasn’t translated into widespread satisfaction among locals.
“Peterborough city itself isn’t in great shape,” noted a Reddit user, u/Deep-Ambassaord6373. “It’s been underinvested in for years, feels stuck in its ways, and you can see the decline more or less everywhere you go.”
Online discussions on platforms like Reddit and X have labeled the city as ‘dismal’ and a ‘dump’ with an ‘atmosphere of misery.’ These sentiments align with its status as the second most depressing place to live in Britain, per a 2024 ILiveHere survey. It has also consistently ranked among the UK’s 50 worst places to reside, holding the top spot for three consecutive years before dropping in 2022.
Residents like @aaronaarrdvarrk highlight the city’s transformation: “I know Peterborough fairly well, and the change has been incredible since the 80s when it was a small, clean, modern city; it’s a total dump these days.” Similarly, @jenn53803 described its past as ‘beautiful,’ adding, “Peterborough is now a s***hole!! It used to be a beautiful market town, with a lot of heritage and traditions. Now it’s a dump.”
While some, like u/slophiewal, remain optimistic, suggesting the city could still be ‘fantastic’ and ‘thriving’ if it meets expectations, others see its current state as a far cry from its former self. Yet, its appeal persists due to the ‘great value for money’ offered by its housing market.
Property prices and comparisons
Recent Rightmove data shows the average home price in Peterborough at £254,282 over the last year. Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £239,693, while terraced homes fetched £195,691—a stark contrast to London’s average valuation of £654,969, according to Zoopla. Even when compared to the national average of £269,900, Peterborough’s prices remain significantly lower.
Tourist attractions and nearby gems
Despite its challenges, Peterborough offers cultural and natural highlights. The Norman Cathedral, built in 1238, stands as a historic landmark, while the sixteenth-century Burghley House provides a glimpse into the past. For nature lovers, Nene Park—a 10km stretch along the River Nene—features Ferry Meadows Country Park at its heart. The city’s proximity to Cambridge further enhances its charm, with opportunities for punting on the river and exploring cobbled streets.
Meanwhile, Wandsworth in South West London has emerged as a popular destination for new residents. A 2025 study analyzing over 23,000 moves identified it as the most sought-after borough, though its cost of living is steep. Average house prices there reached £810,224 in the past year, and renting averages £2,526 per month, according to Compare My Move.
Residents praise Wandsworth for its peaceful vibe, extensive green spaces, and top-rated schools, even as its prices outpace the national average. This shift in popularity contrasts with Peterborough’s struggles, highlighting the complex interplay between economic growth and community sentiment.
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