Ely Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Ely, England with this comprehensive guide featuring top attractions, accommodations, dining, and transportation options.


Introduction to Ely

Nestled in the heart of Cambridgeshire, in the East of England, Ely is a historic city that boasts a rich and fascinating past. Synonymous with its magnificent cathedral, which dominates the skyline, Ely offers visitors an enticing blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s museums and galleries, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, or simply relax in a quaint English pub, Ely has something to suit all tastes.

List of Places to Visit in Ely

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ely Cathedral
  • Oliver Cromwell’s House
  • Ely Museum
  • Stained Glass Museum
  • Babylon Gallery

Natural Attractions of Ely: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • River Great Ouse
  • Jubilee Gardens
  • Roswell Pits
  • Pocket Park
  • Ely Country Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ely

Ely is surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of our top picks for scenic trails:

  • Ely to Wicken Fen Loop
  • Little Thetford Nature Reserve Walk
  • Ely and Witchford Walk
  • Peterborough to Ely Cycle Route
  • Lodes Way Cycle Route

Best Things to Do in Ely: Activities and Tours

  • Ely Ghost Tours
  • Ely Heritage Walking Tour
  • Ely Punting Trip
  • Ely Cathedral Tower Tour
  • Stained Glass Museum Tour

Week-Long Itinerary for Ely

Day Activity
1 Visit Ely Cathedral, Oliver Cromwell’s House, and Ely Museum
2 Go punting on River Great Ouse and explore Jubilee Gardens
3 Hike or bike along the footpaths and bridleways surrounding Ely
4 Visit Babylon Gallery and Roswell Pits
5 Take a day trip to Wicken Fen Nature Reserve
6 Explore Stained Glass Museum and Ely Country Park
7 Relax in one of Ely’s traditional pubs and enjoy a local beer or ale

Food and Drink Scene of Ely

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ely Pork Pies
  • Cambridge Burnt Cream
  • Fenland Celery Soup
  • Apple Charlotte

Local Beverages

  • Ely Gin - Try the Queen Adelaide gin
  • Milton Brewery Beers
  • English Farmhouse Cider

Where to Stay in Ely: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Poets House
  • Ely Guest House
  • Lamb Hotel
  • The Nyton Hotel
  • Riverside Inn Guest House

What to Buy in Ely: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Ely Cathedral Bookmarks and Postcards
  • Ely Cathedral Stained Glass Replicas
  • Eel Catcher’s Ale
  • Chera’s award-winning chocolates
  • Fenland Smoked Salmon

Local Culture and Customs of Ely

Ely has a proud history and strong local traditions, including the famous Eel Day festival, which takes place each May. Visitors can also experience traditional English country pursuits such as fishing and shooting in the surrounding countryside.

Best Time to Visit Ely

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is the peak tourist season when the city can get crowded, and hotels may charge higher rates.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ely

Do:

  • Visit Ely Cathedral, the city’s most famous landmark.
  • Take a stroll along the riverbank and enjoy the scenic views.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages, particularly Ely Gin and Fenland Smoked Salmon.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local traditions or customs.
  • Leave litter or damage the environment.
  • Be rude or impolite to locals and other tourists.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ely

Ely is a safe destination, but visitors should stay alert and take the usual precautions when traveling.

Health in Ely

Health services in Ely are excellent, and pharmacies are widely available throughout the city.

Getting to Ely: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ely

  • London Stansted Airport
  • London Luton Airport
  • London Heathrow Airport

Bus Stations Near Ely

  • Ely Bus Station
  • Cambridge Bus Station
  • Thetford Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train - Regular services run from London King’s Cross to Ely Station.
  • Car - Ely is easily accessible via the A10 and A142 roads.

How to Get Around in Ely

Ely is a small city and easy to explore on foot. Alternatively, visitors can rent bikes or hire a taxi or minibus for longer journeys.

Where to Go Next from Ely: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cambridge
  • Peterborough
  • Bury St Edmunds
  • Newmarket
  • Thetford Forest

Conclusion

Ely is a charming and unique city that offers something for everyone. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque countryside, it’s no surprise that Ely has become a popular destination for travelers seeking an authentic English experience. Whether you’re interested in culture, nature, or just unwinding in a traditional English country pub, Ely won’t disappoint. Start planning your trip today and experience all that Ely has to offer!

Ely Cathedral, across the Palace Green in Summer Ely Cathedral, across the Palace Green in Summer Ceiling of the nave of Ely Cathedral Ceiling of the nave of Ely Cathedral Munster Tavern Munster Tavern The Lamb The Lamb