Peterborough, city, seat of Peterborough County, southeastern Ontario, Canada. It is located on the Otonabee River (part of the Trent Canal system linking Lakes Huron and Ontario), northwest of Toronto. Peterborough is a commercial and manufacturing center located in the heart of the Kawartha Lakes tourist area. Major manufactures include electrical and electronic equipment, automotive parts, processed foods, machinery, and plastic and metal goods. Peterborough is served by the Peterborough Municipal Airport.
Trent University and a community college are located in the city. Attractions include the Peterborough Hydraulic Lift Lock on the Trent Canal; the Peterborough Centennial Museum and Archives, which has exhibits of local historical items; the Hutchinson House Museum, which is furnished in an 1840s style; the Canadian Canoe Museum; and the Art Gallery of Peterborough. The city is also home to the Peterborough Petes major Junior A hockey team. Located nearby are Petroglyphs Provincial Park, containing native rock carvings; Lang Pioneer Village; and Serpent Mounds Hiawatha Reserve. Annual events include the Festival of Lights summer music celebration on Little Lake and the Festival of Trees, held in November.
