Peterborough

Peterborough is a city on the Otonabee River, roughly 77 miles (125 kilometers) northeast of Toronto in central Ontario. The city includes residential areas, commercial zones, and several educational institutions along the river and surrounding terrain.

The settlement began in 1819 as Scott's Plains and later took its name from Peter Robinson, who oversaw early colonization efforts in the region. During the 19th century, the community grew into a regional center with connections to the canal system.

The Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough exhibits hundreds of watercraft and artifacts that represent the maritime traditions of different North American communities.

The public transit network offers bus routes linking residential neighborhoods with downtown, shopping areas, and educational institutions. The downtown area along the river is walkable, while outlying neighborhoods are accessible by bus or car.

The lock built in 1904 lifts boats nearly 65 feet (20 meters) over the Trent-Severn Waterway and is considered the tallest hydraulic lift lock on Earth. Visitors can watch the mechanism in action as vessels move between the two water levels.

Location: Ontario

Inception: 1819

Elevation above the sea: 195 m

Shares border with: Selwyn, Douro-Dummer, Otonabee–South Monaghan, Cavan Monaghan

Website: http://peterborough.ca

GPS coordinates: 44.30000,-78.31667

Latest update: December 15, 2025 14:36