Ely Hotels

Arts and culture

The flat nature of the Fenlands ensures that Ely Cathedral is even more imposing than it might otherwise be. For this reason it has often been referred to as the Ship of the Fens. This fine Norman edifice encompasses the Romanesque and Gothic styles and within you'll be able to chart Ely's journey through nearly 1, 000 years of history.

The Stained Glass Museum is located inside Ely Cathedral and you'll find over 100 stained glass panels on display, dating back to the early 13th century.

No trip to Ely would be complete without a visit to the home of its most famous resident. St Mary's Vicarage was the home of Oliver Cromwell and his family for 10 years in the mid-17th century. The property has been refurbished to its former glory, creating an interactive environment that shows how the Lord Protector's household operated in its heyday.

The Great Outdoors

Ely possesses a great deal of natural beauty and charm and it's well worth taking the time for a riverside walk or hiring a boat for a trip down the river itself.

A great way to see Ely is by walking the Eel Trail which encompasses all the major sites of the town. Along the way you'll discover the lifecycle of an eel through five pieces of art depicting this slippery creature's longstanding association with this historic city.

High tea, tempting cuisine and little treasures

The pace of life in Ely is sedate, something that makes it so appealing to locals and visitors alike. Enjoy an invigorating brew in one of the town's many tearooms such as Peacock's or a hearty meal in a fine English tavern like the Anchor Inn or the Ship Inn. Don't miss the chance to peruse the selection of little shops that sell antiques and arts and crafts.