Welcome to Ely, a charming city in Cambridgeshire that captivates visitors with its rich history and serene landscapes. Far from the hustle and bustle of big cities, Ely offers a unique blend of architectural splendor, ancient stories, and expansive green spaces along the River Great Ouse. It's a place where every cobblestone whispers a story and where time seems to slow down, giving you the chance to immerse yourself in an authentic piece of England.
The Majestic Cathedral and its Heritage
Ely's skyline has been dominated for centuries by the majestic Ely Cathedral, an architectural marvel that immediately captivates you upon arrival. Inside awaits the Octagon, a unique wooden lantern tower that magically draws light inwards, creating a breathtaking spectacle. This place touches you with its grandeur and craftsmanship.
Directly connected to the cathedral is The Porta, an entrance gate that has served for centuries as the threshold to the College and the imposing cathedral. This stone masterpiece is a living remnant of medieval monastic life, through which monks walked daily. It is a majestic gate that invites you to step into history.
Within the walls of the cathedral is also The Stained Glass Museum, a collection that celebrates the art of stained glass. From ancient masterpieces to modern creations, each window tells a unique story in light and glass, a breathtaking journey through the history of craftsmanship.
Echoes of the Past: From Castles to Lord Protector
Ely's history extends beyond the cathedral. On the elevated Ely Castle Mound once stood the imposing Ely Castle, a Norman fortress that controlled the city and the surrounding Fens. Imagine knights patrolling here and William the Conqueror's flag proudly waving. What is now a quiet hill was once the beating heart of power and conflict.
A strategic lookout point that was once part of Ely Castle's defenses is Cherry Hill Park. From here, you can enjoy a truly spectacular view of the winding river and the cathedral, a panorama that emphasizes the historical significance of this place.
Another crucial era comes to life in Oliver Cromwell's House, a beautifully preserved 17th-century home. Here you can walk through the rooms where England's 'Lord Protector' lived, worked, and made important decisions that shaped British history. It's a unique opportunity to come face-to-face with a pivotal era.
The Ely Museum, housed in the impressive Old Gaol – the city's former prison – showcases the magnificent history of Ely and the Fens, from prehistoric artifacts to Roman remains. The transformation of this place from dark history to enlightening insight is fascinating.
A surprising piece of world history can be found at The Russian Cannon, a captured trophy from the Crimean War. This mighty cannon now stands here as a silent witness to a distant past, right in peaceful Ely, a powerful symbol of conflict and subsequent peace. Finally, there is the Ely War Memorial, a place of deep reverence and remembrance, honoring the brave sons and daughters of Ely who gave their lives in service of peace and freedom. The names, carefully carved into the stone, whisper stories of sacrifice and courage.
Green Oases by the Water
Besides its rich history, Ely also offers ample space for relaxation in nature. The Jubilee Gardens, a vibrant green lung along the beautiful River Great Ouse, were created in honor of Queen Elizabeth II's Golden Jubilee. It's a perfect place to relax, picnic, and enjoy the rippling water and passing boats.
The expansive Pegasus Open Space offers a breath of green and tranquility, perfect for escaping the daily hustle and bustle. This public park provides wide views of the surroundings and is a beloved spot for walkers, joggers, and dog walkers, where you can enjoy freedom and fresh air.
For families and nature lovers, there is the lively Ely Country Park, a vast area where you can stroll along the River Great Ouse, explore the adventurous playgrounds, or simply soak up the open space and fresh air. It's a fantastic modern addition to Ely's natural beauty.
- 12 stops
- Start anywhere
- ~3,5 km route length
- ~505 m longest stretch
- about 1,5–2 h duration
- Free
