A day is just not long enough to take in the full extent of Ely. With history at every turn, it’s narrow streets and waterfront, there’s plenty to be discovered.
Renowned for its Cathedral with its octagon tower, the city has developed around this amazing piece of architecture to become a thriving modern city. Originating from the 11th century, the cathedral is the ideal place to begin your trip. Opt for an informative guided tour or if you have the stamina make a climb to the top for spectacular views from the octagon and west towers. Just two minutes from the cathedral is Ely Museum. Set in the city’s former gaol, the attraction features a collection of items relating to the Isle of Ely and Fenland.
One of the highlights of Ely is its waterfront. Stroll along the footpath of the River Ouse and take in the sights. The riverside is home to the Jubilee Gardens, or you can simply sit back and watch the boats float by.
To learn more about the city stop by the Tourist Information Centre, which is housed in a former residence of Oliver Cromwell. Here you can get an insight into domestic life in the 17th century and visit the renowned haunted bedroom.
Food and Drink
You’ll never go hungry in Ely. From riverside dining and quaint teashops to independent pubs and international cuisine there is something for everyone to enjoy. Ely’s many street cafes, tearooms and restaurants mean the city is a hub for foodies. There is some great local produce and stylish venues, which offer local specialties.
For afternoon tea Peacocks is a quintessentially English experience by the river with its traditional tearoom and pretty garden, while The Cutter is great for riverside dining.
What’s on
Prickwillow Ploughing Festival, 3-4 Oct
Taking place at the Prickwillow Drainage Museum, the weekend will host vintage vehicles, working displays, arts and crafts and family entertainment.
Ghost tours
This month don’t miss the return of Ely’s Ghost Tours. With Halloween at the end of October it’s a great opportunity to hear haunted tales of the city.
To experience more of Ely’s haunted past (if you dare) then join one of the immensely popular ghost tours or walks around the city.
The tours begin at Oliver Cromwell’s House where children’s voices to can be heard laughing and there is a blue lady who wanders down the corridors late at night and then of course there is the Lord Protector himself in his bedroom.
As the tour takes you through the dimly lit streets of Ely you may also encounter characters as the body snatcher in the grave yard, the Sergeant Major, the pale nurse from the old militia hospital, ghosts from two famous murders, a medieval lady, a faceless monk and of course Black Shuck – a large one eyed black dog dating from Saxon times.
These are just few of the ghostly sightings on the Ely Ghost Tour along with the poltergeists and sprits that you may also encounter.
Ely Ghost Tours available from 27 October to 30 October. Tickets can be booked by contacting Ely Tourist Information Centre on 01353 662062
Ely’s Apple Festival, 17 Oct
A celebration of the British apple, the day will feature family fun activities such as apple and spoon races, plus folk music, morris dancing and much more.
