Ely might be a small city, but don’t let the size fool you. The first time I arrived, I expected a quiet cathedral town with maybe one or two attractions. Instead, I found historic streets, a magnificent cathedral, riverside walks, cozy cafés, and surprisingly rich local history.
Located about 15 miles from Cambridge, Ely makes a fantastic day trip—or even a relaxed overnight stay. If you enjoy historic towns that move at a slower pace, you’ll probably love it here.
Let’s walk through the best things to do in Ely, Cambridgeshire, so you can plan a visit without missing the highlights.
Visit Ely Cathedral – The Ship of the Fens
You simply can’t talk about Ely without mentioning Ely Cathedral. The massive structure dominates the skyline and appears long before you reach the city.
Locals call it “The Ship of the Fens” because the cathedral rises dramatically above the flat Fenland countryside.
Ever walked into a building that makes you instantly whisper? Ely Cathedral creates that exact feeling.
Highlights Inside Ely Cathedral
Visitors come here to see:
- The famous Octagon Tower
- Stunning medieval architecture
- Beautiful stained glass windows
- The impressive nave and choir
Construction began in 1083, which means this cathedral has stood here for nearly a thousand years.
Official website: https://www.elycathedral.org
Walk Along the Riverside
After exploring the cathedral, head toward the River Great Ouse. Ely’s riverside area feels peaceful and scenic, especially on sunny days.
The river attracts walkers, boaters, and cyclists who enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
Things to Do by the River
- Take a scenic riverside walk
- Watch narrowboats travel along the water
- Stop at a riverside café
Personally, I like grabbing a coffee and simply sitting near the water for a while. Sometimes the best travel moments happen when you slow down a little.
Explore Ely Market Square
The Ely Market brings life to the city centre several days a week.
Markets have taken place here for centuries, and the tradition continues today.
What You’ll Find at Ely Market
- Fresh local produce
- Street food stalls
- Handmade crafts
- Vintage items
Ever visited a market where you only planned to browse but somehow ended up buying pastries, local honey, and random souvenirs? That happens here more often than expected.
Official information: https://www.elymarkets.co.uk
Visit Ely Museum
If you want to understand the history of the region, Ely Museum makes a great stop.
The museum sits inside a former prison building from the 13th century. Yes, a medieval jail turned museum. Pretty interesting, right?
What You’ll Learn Inside
- The history of the Fenland landscape
- Local farming traditions
- Stories from Ely’s past
Official website: https://www.elymuseum.org.uk
The exhibits explain how people transformed wetlands into farmland across the Fen region.
Discover Oliver Cromwell’s House
History lovers should visit Oliver Cromwell’s House, one of Ely’s most famous historic buildings.
Cromwell lived here during the 1630s before becoming a major political figure during the English Civil War.
Why Visit Cromwell’s House
- Interactive historical exhibits
- Costumed guides during events
- Insight into 17th-century life
Official website: https://www.olivercromwellshouse.co.uk
Ever wondered what everyday life looked like in England during the 1600s? This museum gives you a surprisingly vivid picture.
Climb the Ely Cathedral Tower
If you want the best view in Ely, consider climbing the cathedral tower.
Guided tours take visitors up through the Octagon structure and eventually onto the roof.
What You’ll See From the Top
- Ely city rooftops
- The River Great Ouse
- Miles of Fenland countryside
Because the surrounding land stays extremely flat, the views stretch incredibly far. On clear days you might feel like you can see half the county.
Walk Around Jubilee Gardens
Right next to the river you’ll find Jubilee Gardens, a peaceful green space perfect for relaxing.
Why People Like This Park
- Riverside views
- Picnic areas
- Open green lawns
Families often stop here during sunny afternoons. It’s a simple park, but the river setting makes it feel special.
Take a Boat Trip on the River Great Ouse
Want a different perspective of the city? Consider a boat trip along the River Great Ouse.
Several operators offer small cruises during warmer months.
Why Boat Trips Are Popular
- Scenic countryside views
- Relaxing pace
- Great photo opportunities
FYI, the calm river makes boat trips surprisingly relaxing 🙂
Explore Ely’s Independent Shops and Cafés
Ely’s city centre offers a nice mix of independent shops, bakeries, and cafés.
Unlike larger tourist cities, the atmosphere here feels friendly and unhurried.
Local Favorites
- Artisan bakeries
- Traditional English tea rooms
- Small antique shops
Honestly, wandering through these streets without a strict plan can become one of the most enjoyable parts of the visit.
Best Time to Visit Ely
Ely looks beautiful throughout the year, but certain seasons stand out.
Ideal Seasons
Spring (April–June)
Flowers bloom around the cathedral grounds.
Summer (July–September)
Perfect weather for riverside walks and outdoor cafés.
Autumn also brings golden colors across the countryside.
Winter feels quieter but charming—especially around Christmas markets.
Travel Tips for Visiting Ely
Before your visit, keep these practical tips in mind.
Helpful Tips
- Arrive early if visiting during weekends
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Combine Ely with other nearby attractions
Many travelers combine Ely with destinations like Cambridge or nearby nature reserves.
Link here to “Best Day Trips from Cambridge”.
Final Thoughts
Ely may be small, but it delivers a wonderful mix of history, architecture, riverside scenery, and relaxed charm. From exploring the magnificent Ely Cathedral to wandering along the River Great Ouse, the city offers plenty to enjoy in a single day.
If your Cambridgeshire trip already includes Cambridge, consider adding Ely to your itinerary. The slower pace, historic streets, and impressive cathedral create a travel experience that feels both peaceful and memorable.
And honestly, who doesn’t enjoy discovering a charming small city where the main landmark has stood for nearly a thousand years?
