Ely in one day: Cathedrals, Cromwell, and Chocolate Scones
- teamthomastravels
- May 5
- 4 min read
We spent a beautiful day exploring Ely, Cambridgeshire – England’s second smallest city (after Wells in Somerset) – and were utterly charmed. With its iconic cathedral, riverside charm, fascinating history and relaxed pace, Ely makes for a perfect day trip from Cambridge, London or beyond. Whether you’re a history lover, bookworm, antique hunter or just looking for a picturesque wander, this little city has something to surprise and delight you at every turn and is the perfect destination for a relaxing potter.
Here's our recommended itinerary for spending one day in Ely:
1. Start at Oliver Cromwell’s House
Begin your day at Oliver Cromwell’s House, the former home of England’s controversial Lord Protector – and conveniently, Ely’s Tourist Information Centre. Step back into the 17th century as you explore rooms recreated in period style, complete with an atmospheric audio guide (included in the £8 ticket). The exhibits bring Cromwell’s life and the English Civil War vividly to life. Don’t miss the Civil War room with interactive displays – kids and adults alike will be intrigued.
Before you leave, pick up a copy of the Eel Trail (£2 from the front desk). This self-guided walking route takes you past many of Ely’s historic highlights, with plenty of stories, fun facts and architectural gems to discover en route.
2. Next Stop: Ely Cathedral – The Ship of the Fens
Just a stone’s throw away rises Ely Cathedral, one of the most jaw-dropping buildings in England. It's hard to put into words quite how special this building is. Close to 1000 years old, with its vast, painted ceiling, intricate stained glass, and the awe-inspiring Octagon Tower, this architectural masterpiece dominates the skyline. You can see it from miles away across the flat Cambridgeshire fens, as people have done for centuries. Out front, you’ll spot a Crimean War cannon, donated to the city by Queen Victoria.
Admission is £14 (which includes a free return within 12 months – handy if you’re planning a second trip) and under 16s can visit for free. If you have the energy, we highly recommend the Octagon Tower climb for a bird’s eye view of Ely and the surrounding Fens.
3. Monastic Marvels and Hidden Corners
From the Cathedral, wander through the Porta, the medieval gateway that leads to the monastic precinct – one of the most intact collections of monastic buildings in Western Europe. It’s a peaceful and atmospheric area to explore, steeped in centuries of sacred history.
4. Independent Gems and Bookish Delights
Make your way to Ely’s High Street and marketplace, lined with independent shops, cafés, and character. Our top pick? Topping & Company Booksellers – a true treasure trove for book lovers. With three floors of floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, free tea and coffee while you browse, and a cosy reading corner with a view of the cathedral, it’s the perfect place to pause.
5. Time for Tea – and Scones!
You’re bound to be peckish by now, so head down to Peacocks Tearoom, right by the riverside. This family-run favourite is a vintage dream with its floral china and extensive tea list – over 70 teas from six continents! Grab a spot in the sun-drenched, wisteria-draped garden and indulge in their chocolate chip scones. Thank us later...
6. Treasure Hunting at Waterside Antiques
Next door is the Waterside Antiques Centre, a vast labyrinth of vintage and antique delights spread over three floors. From retro kitchenware and rare books to jewellery and Victorian oddities, it’s dangerously tempting!
7. Riverside Wanders and Optional Cruise
Ely sits beside the River Great Ouse, and a walk along the riverside is a must. Colourful canal boats andducks bob along peacefully and willow trees line the path. If the weather’s fine, you could even hop on a 30 minute Liberty Belle river cruise (check seasonal availability at the quay).
8. Park Life
End your day with a relaxing stroll through Jubilee Gardens and Cherry Hill Park. Jubilee Gardens is currently blooming with wisteria, while Cherry Hill Park offers panoramic views of the cathedral’s towers rising above the trees – especially gorgeous at golden hour.
9. A Pint with a View
If you fancy a scenic sundowner before you head home, grab a table outside at The Cutter Inn, right on the riverside. It’s a lovely spot to toast the day with a chilled pint or glass of wine, watching the river glow in the evening light.
Practical Tips: How to get to Ely and Parking
Ely is in Cambridgeshire, in the east of England. It's 37 minutes drive from Bury St Edmunds, 39 minutes drive from Cambridge and 52 minutes from Peterborough.
Ely is also easy to reach by train: only 14 minutes (and under £5 return!) from Cambridge, and from London, direct trains from Kings Cross station run every 30 minutes and take about 1 hour 10 minutes.
We drove and parked at Ship Lane car park, which is free all day after 8:30am and just a 10-minute stroll from the Cathedral via Cherry Hill Park – perfect for an easy start and scenic route into town.
Ely exceeded our expectations – a compact city with grand architecture, gentle walks, quirky shops and a deep sense of history. We hope this one day Ely itinerary helps you make the most of your time there.
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