2026 Ely Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in March)

This is second smallest city in the UK (please don’t ask me which the smallest city is :) The city centre is small, however, you can feel history at wherever you are and look at in the city centre area. The big cathedral is suppose to be the centre piece of Ely and many visitors come and see it. The cathedral is also used partly by an independent school called Kings Ely. This school has a very long history and is so English and traditional - compliment. If you are nearby, you can spend a day or a weekend in Ely, it’s relaxing, enjoyable and full of history. By the way: it’s only 15 mins and one stop away from Cambridge by train.

How to get around: Ely เป็นเมืองที่เรียกว่าCity เพราะมี cathedral อยู่ในเมืองและนับเป็นซิตี้ที่เล็กที่สุดอันดับ2ของอังกฤษ สามารถเดินเที่ยวได้รอบในวันเดียว Must-see attractions: โบสต์เก่าแก่อายุ 700 กว่าปี Hotel guide: มี เกสเฮ้า ของคนไทย และอังกฤษ วิธีเดินทาง มาทางรถไฟจาก King's Cross ตรงมา Ely สถานีรถไฟอยู่ใกล้ใจกลางเมือง หรือรถ Coach จากวิกตอเรียมาลงที่ เคมบริดจ์ แวะเที่ยวเคมบริดจ์ แล้วค่อยนั่งรถไฟไป Ely แค่ 10 นาที

Located in the town of Ely in Cambridgeshire, England, Ely Cathedral is a magnificent medieval Gothic structure, hailed as one of the most stunning churches in the UK. With its grand appearance and rich historical background, it serves not only as a religious center but also as a popular tourist attraction for architecture and culture enthusiasts. The history of Ely Cathedral dates back to 673 AD when St. Etheldreda founded a monastery there. The original building was destroyed by Vikings in 870, but after the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, it was rebuilt and developed into the cathedral we see today. The architectural style of the cathedral combines Norman, Gothic, and other elements, especially known for its striking Octagon Tower and extensive carvings.

#uktrip Peaceful Solitude "What I loved most about our Valentine’s Day at Wicken Fen was the silence. In a world that’s always so loud, being able to walk for miles with my husband and just hear the birds and our own footsteps was a gift. We took the Four Lodes Trail, and at times it felt like we were the only two people on earth. It’s a very restorative place. If you’re looking to escape the commercialism of Valentine’s Day and just spend quality time together, Wicken Fen is the perfect sanctuary."

#uktrip A Photographer’s Dream "My girlfriend is a keen photographer, so I surprised her with a trip to Wicken Fen for Valentine’s. She was in heaven! Between the textures of the dried reeds, the dramatic sky, and the rustic charm of the windpump, she took hundreds of photos. The light in the Fens is unlike anywhere else in the UK—it’s so vast and clear. Even if you aren't a pro, the scenery is so photogenic that it’s hard not to take a great couple’s selfie. It was a unique and thoughtful way to spend the day."

#uktrip The Beauty of the 'Wild Wide' "Wicken Fen is described as a ‘window onto a lost landscape,’ and it really feels that way. My boyfriend and I took the longer loop past the Mere, and the scale of the place is just incredible. The Highland cattle were out grazing, looking very sturdy and unimpressed by the February chill! There’s a raw, rugged beauty to the fens in winter that is very romantic in a 'Wuthering Heights' kind of way. It’s bracing and refreshing, and it definitely earns you that pub lunch in the village afterward!"

#uktrip A Step Back in Time "We loved visiting the Fen Cottage during our Valentine’s trip. It’s a charming little piece of history that gives you a glimpse into how people used to live in the fens. The low beams and simple interior are so atmospheric. It made us appreciate the comforts of modern life, but also the beauty of a simpler time. Walking from the cottage out into the vastness of the reserve felt like a real adventure. It’s a great spot for couples who like a bit of history mixed in with their nature walks."

#uktrip Cozy Treats at the Docky Hut "After a chilly walk around the Adventurers’ Trail, we headed straight to the Docky Hut Café. They had some lovely seasonal treats, and sharing a hot chocolate and a slice of homemade cake was the perfect way to warm up. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, even in mid-February. It was nice to see other couples enjoying the quiet vibe. We also popped into the gift shop and found some beautiful local crafts to take home as a souvenir of our day. A wonderful, low-pressure way to celebrate Valentine’s Day together."

#uktrip Romantic Serenity on the Boardwalk "There is something very intimate about the boardwalk at Wicken Fen. Because it’s a raised path through the reeds, it feels like you’re in your own private world. We visited on February 14th and, despite it being a popular spot, it never felt crowded once we got away from the visitor center. We loved the historic windpump—it’s such a striking silhouette against the flat landscape and makes for a great photo op. It’s a peaceful, grounding experience that allows you to actually talk and enjoy each other's company without distractions."

#uktrip Accessible and Inclusive Romance "I was worried about the paths being muddy in February, but the boardwalk is fantastic. As someone with limited mobility, it was lovely to find a nature reserve where my partner and I could still enjoy a significant walk together without stress. We saw plenty of wildlife right from the accessible paths, including a very bright Kingfisher! It’s wonderful that such a beautiful, wild place is accessible to everyone. We had a lovely Valentine's lunch at the café afterward. Highly recommended for a stress-free, beautiful day out."

#uktrip Perfect Sunset Vistas "If you want a Valentine's date with a view, time your visit for the sunset. The Fen is famous for its wide, uninterrupted skies, and seeing the sun dip below the horizon over the marshes was breathtaking. The sky turned shades of deep violet and orange, reflecting perfectly in the lodes. We stood on one of the footbridges just watching the light change—it was incredibly romantic and much more memorable than a box of chocolates. We’ll definitely be making this a yearly tradition. Just make sure to bring a warm scarf and a camera!"

#uktrip A Winter Wonderland Escape "We visited Wicken Fen for a Valentine’s Day walk, and it was absolutely magical. The winter air was crisp, and the ancient Sedge Fen was covered in a delicate layer of frost that shimmered in the morning sun. Walking hand-in-hand along the wooden boardwalk felt like stepping back in time to a wilder version of England. It’s so quiet out there; all you can hear is the wind in the reeds. If you’re looking for a romantic spot that isn't a cliché restaurant, this is it. We spent nearly two hours exploring the trails and felt completely reconnected with nature and each other."

#uktrip Majestic Wildlife Encounters "My partner and I are big birdwatchers, so Wicken Fen was our top choice for a Valentine’s outing. We weren't disappointed! We spent a good hour in the Tower Hide and were lucky enough to see a Marsh Harrier hunting over the reedbeds. Seeing such a majestic bird in its natural habitat was a real highlight. The reserve is so well-managed, and the staff at the visitor center were incredibly helpful, pointing out where the Konik ponies were grazing. It’s a fantastic place for couples who enjoy sharing a hobby and being outdoors."

Ely is a lovely little town. Enjoyed a beautiful wedding there. Had a change to quickly pop into the cathedral on our way back to the station. Was surprised you had to pay to see the majority of it, most other cathedrals I've been to lately are free, and you can give donations. What we could see was fairly pretty though. will visit again.

🇬🇧 My 2 Days in Cambridge 👣 ⚠️ During the graduation ceremony season, most of the college campuses might be closed to public 🚂 Transportation Sheffield ➡️ Cambridge ⏳ ~2 hrs train 🗓️ Day 1 📍Trinity College (Pic 9, 11) 🏗️ A must-visit for architecture lovers 🌟 Stunning grounds and rich history to explore 👟Tour to join 1: visit the Wren Library ⚠️ Check online for opening hours (Wren Library was closed during my visit) 👟Tour to join 2 (Pic 11): 📖 Guided tour of Trinity College 💷 £5pp ⚠️ Only for those who join the tour could visit the inside of Trinity College 📍 Newton's Apple Tree 🌳 (Pic 12 Bottom) 🍏 For fans of science, this is a piece of history! 🍎 Inspired Newton’s gravity theory 🆓 Free access, just a short walk from Garrett Hostel Lane 📍Cambridge Market Square 🈺 I visited around 3 PM, just before it closed at 4 PM 🛍️ Lots of unique shops to browse 📍 Punting on the River Cam (Pic 1,3,4,10,13,16,17) 🚣♀️ Incredible experience at Quayside Punting Station 🎓 It's a lovely way to see the city from the water, we passed through a few college campuses ⚠️ Book ahead 🛶 Views during the boat tour 🌁 Clare Bridge 🌁 Bridge of Sighs (similar to the one in Oxford) 🌁 Mathematical Bridge 📸 Quick stop near King's College, perfect for a photo op 🗓️ Day 2 📍King's College (Pic 2, 10-11) 🗺️ Entrance: Kings Parade (search this name in map) ⛪️ King’s College Chapel (Pic 12 above, 14) ✨ Iconic interiors ⚠️ Make sure to book your visit online, no walk in tickets 🎫 📍 Great St. Mary’s Church (Pic 15) ✨ Viewpoint of Cambridge 🆓 Church entry is free 💷 £6 for the viewpoint 📸 A lovely spot for photos! 📍Pembroke College (Pic 5-8) 💗 My FAV ✨ 🆓 Free entry 💐 Beautiful gardens EVERYWHERE!! ⏳ Suggest time spending: 1.5~2hrs 🍳🥞🥣🧇🍝☕️🥖Food & Drinks Recommendations 📍 Prezzo Italian Restaurant (Pic 19) 🏞️ Choose outdoor seats for the river view! 💗My choices: Ravioli 🍝 Garlic bread 🥖 📍 Fitzbillies (Pic 20) Famous for its bread 🍞 ⚠️ Be prepared for a little wait #cambridge #trinity #kingscollege #citydaytours #travel

📅 Itinerary Day1： Day2: Day3: 🏨 Accommodation 🍴 Food Recommendations 📌 Tips

How honoring to remember all the heroes who fought to their country. Every village must have this kind of wall!

very time

we have a good time .good room, good car park

#couplestrip

Loved my trip to Ely. So many small independent shops/cafés, very friendly vibes ❤️

#2024 Trip Review Before setting off, Ely was just a vague geographical concept in my mind, a small town in Cambridgeshire. My expectations weren't particularly high, but this trip transformed Ely into one of my most unforgettable British memories, a town filled with tranquility, surprise, and moving moments. The moment we arrived in Ely, we were struck by a scene of tranquility and peace. Compared to the bustle of London or Cambridge, Ely was exceptionally quiet, and the air was filled with the subtle scent of earth and grass, creating a soothing and relaxing atmosphere. The cobblestone streets, quaint buildings, and abundant green spaces created a beautiful pastoral landscape. The sunlight, dappled by light and shadow, shone a touch of mystery on the ancient buildings. Our first stop was Ely Cathedral. While history isn't discussed in travelogues, it's undeniable that this magnificent building is truly breathtaking. We wandered around the cathedral, admiring its solemn majesty and absorbing the sacred atmosphere it exudes. The church square was covered in green grass, and groups of people were relaxing, enjoying the afternoon sunshine. We sat on the grass, quietly admiring the view of the church and feeling this rare tranquility. In the afternoon, we rented a boat and sailed on the Illiore River. The water was crystal clear, and the banks were beautiful, with weeping willows and shady green trees. We drifted leisurely on the river, enjoying the scenery and feeling the gentle breeze. Occasionally, a few wild ducks frolicking in the water added a touch of vitality to the river. On the boat, we admired the scenery while enjoying our own afternoon tea. The relaxing and joyful feeling was unforgettable. In the evening, we strolled through the town center of Illiore. The shops here are diverse, from antiques to handicrafts. In a small bookstore, we found a book we really liked. Although we couldn't understand the language, the illustrations were beautiful and the story was captivating. We bought it as a souvenir of our trip. In the town center, we also found a wonderful cafe. The coffee was rich and aromatic, offering a mellow taste that brought us some solace after a tiring journey. Eli's evenings were exceptionally peaceful and tranquil. We enjoyed dinner at a restaurant recommended by a local. The food was delicious, made with fresh ingredients and expertly prepared. The atmosphere was relaxed, with people chatting and laughter filling the air. We chatted with the locals at the next table, who enthusiastically introduced us to Yili's customs and culture, leaving us feeling a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The next day, we decided to explore the countryside surrounding Yili. We rented bicycles and rode the winding paths through lush green fields. The breeze and the sun on our faces were a delightful experience. The scenery along the way was breathtaking: lush green meadows, blooming flowers, and leisurely grazing cattle and sheep created an idyllic scene. Cycling along the country roads, we felt the wonders of nature and the tranquility and peace of the countryside. Along the way, we encountered a group of adorable lambs, their furry coats and clear eyes reminiscent of fairy tales. We couldn't help but stop to take photos with them. Leaving Yili was filled with reluctance. This small town, originally planned as a transit point, brought me so many surprises and touching moments. It allowed me to experience the tranquility and beauty of the British countryside and appreciate the warmth and kindness of its people. Yili, this peaceful and beautiful town, will forever be etched in my memory and become one of the most beautiful memories of my life. It proves that the meaning of travel lies not in the fame of the destination, but in the scenery along the way and the connections you make with the world. Yili, I will definitely be back!

Ely Cathedral, located in the city of Ely, England, is a magnificent and enchanting place. This Gothic-style cathedral, built in the 11th century and meticulously restored, boasts an elegant and towering structure that can be seen from afar. It is a major attraction for tourists and those interested in history and architecture. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the beauty of stained glass windows that sparkle when sunlight streams through, creating a warm and uniquely beautiful atmosphere. These stained glass windows intricately depict religious stories and are impressive works of art.

Cambridgeshire may be flight, but that doesn’t mean it’s boring. There are plenty of natural sites within its countryside, one of which is Wicken fen. This national trust maintained site contains a number of boardwalks where you can walk along admiring the natural wetlands either side of you. There is also plenty of wildlife here to see from a variety of wading birds to the tiny Muntjac deer. For those wanting to get closer, there are also boat rides available along the waterways during the summer season #nationaltrust

Explore Ely, a picturesque city in Cambridgeshire, England: ### Getting There - **By Train**: Direct trains from London, Cambridge, and Norwich. - **By Car**: Accessible via the A10 with parking available. ### Top Attractions - **Ely Cathedral**: Magnificent medieval architecture, including the Octagon Tower and Stained Glass Museum. - **Oliver Cromwell's House**: Museum detailing the life of the famous leader. - **Ely Museum**: Covers local history from ancient times to today. ### Outdoor Activities - **Ely Riverside**: Scenic walks along the Great Ouse River. - **Jubilee Gardens**: Riverside park ideal for picnics. - **Roswell Pits**: Nature reserve for birdwatching and peaceful strolls. ### Dining and Shopping - **Peacocks Tearoom**: Renowned for traditional English tea. - **The Old Fire Engine House**: Restaurant serving British cuisine. - **Ely Market**: Held on Thursdays and Saturdays, offering local produce and crafts. ### Events and Festivals - **Eel Festival Weekend**: May festivities celebrating Ely's eel heritage. - **Apple Festival**: October event showcasing local produce. - **Ely Folk Festival**: Annual music festival in July. ### Nearby Attractions - **Wicken Fen Nature Reserve**: Rich biodiversity in a National Trust reserve. - **Anglesey Abbey**: Historic house with beautiful gardens nearby. ### Travel Tips - **Weather**: Prepare for changeable weather; bring layers and an umbrella. - **Walking**: Comfortable shoes recommended for exploring on foot. - **Guides**: Consider a guided tour for deeper insights into local history and culture. Enjoy your visit to Ely, a blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural delights!