In Ely, you can explore stained glass in the cathedral, local history and the Fenland landscape. There are also museums, gardens, walking trails and activities on the river. This makes it possible to shape a stay around different interests, with exhibitions and historical insights as well as time outdoors and birdwatching.
Stained Glass, the Cathedral and its Towers
The Stained Glass Museum is the only museum in the United Kingdom devoted to the art of stained glass. Its permanent exhibition is in the cathedral’s triforium gallery and displays stained glass in chronological order. The museum is a 15-minute walk from Ely railway station; check this walking time again before your trip.
The museum also regularly runs practical glass workshops led by professional glass artists. Alongside a chronological overview of the works, it offers the opportunity to explore stained glass in a workshop.
The cathedral offers two different tower experiences. The Octagon Tower Tours climb 170 spiral steps in the Octagon Tower to its wooden lantern. The West Tower Experience involves climbing 288 steps to the tower; from there, the 360-degree view extends across Ely and far beyond. The descriptions distinguish between the climbs on the two tours; the panoramic view is specified for the West Tower Experience.
The cathedral’s building history and garden design offer further perspectives. Ely Porta was begun in 1397 and completed under Prior Poucher (1401–1418). The cathedral’s Mary Garden was designed to represent Mary’s virtues and qualities through nature. In the past, a pair of peregrine falcons nested on the cathedral roof. With a little luck, you may see peregrine falcons flying around its towers.
Local History and Community Life
Ely Museum tells the story of the people and landscape of Ely and its surroundings, from prehistoric times to the present day. Its exhibition spaces include original prison cells, where visitors can hear the stories of the prisoners. The museum also explains how people in Ely and the surrounding area have adapted their lives, work and leisure to the unusual Fenland landscape.
Oliver Cromwell’s House offers a glimpse of domestic life in the 17th century, in the former family home of the Lord Protector. Admission includes a self-guided audio tour. Ely Market is another longstanding part of community life: it has been part of the community for over 800 years.
Trails, Gardens and Riverside
Ely Country Park has two signposted trails through a landscape with a natural Fenland character. The trails cover an area of special scientific interest (SSSI), where you can watch birds. There is a play and picnic area at the entrance by Fisherman’s Car Park. Most of the park is fully open to the public; privately used areas can only be reached via the network of public rights of way. Check the access arrangements before your visit.
Jubilee Gardens connect Ely Waterside with the city centre. Their open spaces are suitable for picnics and free play. Visitors can watch waterfowl on the banks of the River Great Ouse; boat trips are also available from Ely’s riverside.
The Eel Trail is a circular route that passes important parts of the city. This distinguishes it from the trails in the country park, which cross the Fenland landscape and include birdwatching. Ely Tourist Information Centre also offers a programme of guided walks in Ely and the surrounding area. If you would like to join one, check the dates for your travel period.
Discover more destinations: St Ives, Boxworth, Comberton, Buckden, Wisbech, Little Stukeley, Holme, Isleham
For the main travel guide: Cambridgeshire.
