Ely is very proud of it’s connection with eels as the name Ely is derived from the Isle of Eels when the city was surrounded by water and marshland. Eels are still caught in the River Great Ouse. Smoked eels, now considered a delicacy can be purchased on Ely’s award winning Farmers Market and dishes such as eel stew and eel pie can be regularly be found on several of the city’s restaurant menus.
Nestled in the Fen countryside, Ely makes an ideal destination for a day visit or short break location. As the second smallest city in England, Ely is a hidden gem, which is often remarked upon by our many visitors. It is compact enough to ensure that nowhere is too far to walk to, yet expansive enough to fill a full day and more.
For your day visit to Ely your first port of call would be the medieval Cathedral that dominates the landscape for miles around with it’s famous Octagon tower. Whilst in the Cathedral be sure to visit the Stained Glass Museum situated in the South Triforium offering a colourful experience of a stunning collection of stained glass and is the only one of its kind in the country.
Ely’s most famous resident is Oliver Cromwell and you will have the opportunity to visit the only remaining home of Oliver Cromwell with the exception of Hampton Court Palace in London. The former Lord Protector lived with his family in Ely for just over 10 years and the house has been transformed to give you an insight into 17th century life. Audio tours bring the story of this fascinating building to life. The house also doubles up as a Tourist Information Centre.
For learning about Ely’s past the Ely Museum is situated just two minutes from the Cathedral. At the museum you will discover the story of Ely from prehistoric times to the twentieth century. The museum is housed in the city’s former Gaol.
The riverside is also a hot spot for visitors wishing to relax and enjoy an afternoon tea or take a boat trip or even browse through the three storey Antiques Centre. Whilst at the riverside we strongly recommend that you follow the city’s heritage public art Eel Trail that is an excellent way of seeing the historic city at it’s best. This circular walk, self-guided by brass way makers takes you past the oldest parts of Ely incorporating the beautiful riverside area and award winning Jubilee gardens.We can plan your day for you as we can offer tailor-made programmes for your group. Further information on pre-booked tours and where to eat can be obtained from our dedicated group tours advisor on 01353 616397 or www.visitely.org.uk Coaches are able to drop off right in the heart of the City Centre. We offer free parking for coaches with accessible toilets at the coach park.
