Visit 2020 - visitely.org.uk - Visit Ely

Page created by Sylvia Kennedy
 
CONTINUE READING
Visit 2020 - visitely.org.uk - Visit Ely
visit                              2020
YOUR GUIDE TO ELY AND THE SURROUNDING AREA

                          visitely.org.uk
Visit 2020 - visitely.org.uk - Visit Ely
Visit the actual family home of one of
England’s most remarkable historical figures
   Experience 17th Century         Audio handsets bring the story of this
   domestic life in                impressive house vividly to life. Or try our
   Mrs Cromwell’s Kitchen          augmented reality trail – The Cromwell Quest,
                                   perfect for families
   Try dressing-up or playing      Guided tours and group visits welcome
   with the toys of the time
                                   Plus Gift Shop, Tourist Information Centre,
   Visit the new immersive Civil   Function Room and Ely’s Escape Room
   War Exhibition
                                   www.olivercromwellshouse.co.uk
   Cast your vote – was Cromwell
   a Hero or a Villain?            or call 01353 662062
                                   29 St Mary’s Street, Ely, Cambs CB7 4HF
   Venture into the Haunted
   Bedroom if you dare!              @Cromwells_House         /cromwellshouse
Visit 2020 - visitely.org.uk - Visit Ely
2020                        visitely.org.uk

Ely 2020
Welcome to the wonderful world of Ely -– a
magnificent city, a beautiful region, and a
gateway to the East of England with landscapes
and dramatic views which you won’t find
anywhere else in the world.

What makes Ely such a great place to live
and visit? Here you can enjoy a wealth of
shops, great restaurants, bars and cafes,
                                                                  Contents
fascinating museums and galleries, plenty of                      History and Culture           5
green open spaces and a beautiful stretch
                                                                  Days of tranquility           8
of riverside. The city is an unusual and
intriguing mixture of old and new, with many                      Days of activity              9
quaint side streets, always bustling but
never frantic, a place which always makes                         The local area               11
you smile.
                                                                  Three of a kind              18
This Guide aims to provide a flavour of
                                                                  A feast of food              20
the variety of life in and around Ely and
a chance to plan your time whether you                            What’s on                    26
wish to expend some energy or simply
relax. You’ll find the latest updates at                          30 Things you can see and
www.visitely.org.uk or call the Ely Tourist                       and do in and around Ely     28
Information Centre on 01353 662062.
                                                                  Eel Day                      30

www.visitely.org.uk                                               Food festival                31
    @visitely            /visitely                                Shopping                     37
© Visit Ely 2020. Produced by Visit Ely. We have tried to make    Arts and Entertainment       39
this guide as accurate and user-friendly as possible. Visit Ely
does not accept responsibility for errors and omissions, nor
does inclusion in the guide imply recommendation.                 Tourist Information Centre   44
Written and designed by Cambridge Marketing Limited
www.cambridgemarketing.co.uk
                                                                  Guided Tour and Walks        47
Cover illustration © K J Lewis www.cambridgeart.com
                                                                  Always Accommodating         49
We are grateful to Andrew Sharpe (SharpeImages.co.uk) for many
of the photographs used in this Guide.                            Finding Ely                  55
Visit 2020 - visitely.org.uk - Visit Ely
Come and experience one of the
                                 wonders of the Medieval World
                                 • Daily Ground Floor & Tower Tours
                                 • Restaurant, Café & Gift Shops
                                 • Stained Glass Museum
                                 • Monastic Buildings & Gardens
                                 • Specialist Exhibitions & Events
                                 • Major Film & TV Location
                                   (The King’s Speech, The Crown)
                                 • Beautiful Riverside & Shops
                                 Open Daily from 7am
                                 01353 660349
                                 www.elycathedral.org

          Visit Ely Museum!
    Reopening in autumn 2020
      following a £2.2 million              IN ELY CATHEDRAL

           redevelopment

    Exciting, new
     interactive
      galleries

    www.elymuseum.org.uk
4
Visit 2020 - visitely.org.uk - Visit Ely
History and Culture
 There has been a settlement in Ely since medieval
 times and signs of its diverse history still abound.
The Cathedral has been the focal            of carpentry ever made and gives
point of Ely since the late 11th century,   the Cathedral an unparalleled central
sitting on the high ground above the        space, with a unique system of natural
Fens teeming with by the eels which         light. Further work by renowned
gave the city its name. An astonishing      Victorian architect George Gilbert
feat of construction, it is the only UK     Scott, notably on the West Tower, gave
building to be listed as one of the         the building further splendour and
‘Seven Wonders of the Medieval              solidity which are still so evident today.
World’. Both inside and out, it presents
a breathtaking vision, an embodiment        Guided tours are available daily and
of beauty and serenity. The Octagon         within the precinct you can enjoy the
Tower is perhaps the most distinctive       shop and the Almonry Restaurant.
part of the Cathedral and dates back        The Cathedral area still covers much
to the 14th century: it is probably the     of the centre of the city and the walk
largest and most complicated piece          from the archway on the Gallery down
                                            through Cherry Hill and towards
                                            the river must be one of the most
                                            attractive in any city.

                                                                                         5
Visit 2020 - visitely.org.uk - Visit Ely
Photography © National Trust Images
                                                                                                                                                       © National Trust 2019. Registered Charity no. 205846.
    Space to breathe

        made at Wicken Fen

    Visit Wicken Fen this year for
    the biggest skies and the tiniest
    creatures.
    Explore on foot, bike or boat.

    These are the places that make us.                                                                                Social icon

                                                                                                                      Circle
                                                                                                                      Only use blue and/or white.

    nationaltrust.org.uk/wicken-fen
                                                                                                                      For more details check out our
                                                                                                                      Brand Guidelines.

    Get closer to nature                                                at Welney Wetland Centre

                                                                                       wwt.org.uk/Welney
                WWT Welney, Hundred Foot Bank, Welney, Nr. Wisbech, PE14 9TN. WWT reg. charity in E & W, no. 1030884 & Scotland, no. SC039410

6
Visit 2020 - visitely.org.uk - Visit Ely
Ely Cathedral is especially known for
                                           the incredibly colourful windows and
                                           the Stained Glass Museum, situated
                                           in the South Triforium of the Cathedral,
                                           houses a wonderful and vivid collection,
                                           and is the only one of its kind in the
                                           country. A hidden treasure, it offers
                                           a highly acclaimed audio-guide tour
                                           which tells the history of stained glass
                                           through the ages.

Oliver Cromwell’s House                          AUTUMN 2020
Oliver Cromwell is perhaps Ely’s best
known former citizen and his house
on St Mary’s Street pays homage to                 Just two minutes from the
his influence and gives a fascinating                Cathedral, Ely Museum
insight into life in the 17th century.              is currently undergoing a
Oliver Cromwell’s House, which also               comprehensive £2.2 million
serves as the city’s Tourist Information         redevelopment to showcase
Centre, provides a fascinating                   the fascinating collection of
snapshot of how Cromwell and his             memorabilia relating to the Isle of
family would have lived during their          Ely and the surrounding Fenland
ten years in Ely from 1636. Audio tours           from prehistoric to modern
bring this impressive building and its       times. The Museum will reopen in
history back to life. Oliver Cromwell’s      autumn 2020 with a new range of
House was substantially redeveloped            interactive exhibits for all ages.
in 2019 and is well worth a visit.
                                                                                      7
Visit 2020 - visitely.org.uk - Visit Ely
Days of tranquility

                                                      It is often said that Ely has the feel of
                                                      a large village, where life proceeds
                                                      at a leisurely pace which visitors from
                                                      all parts of the world find immensely
                                                      appealing. The city is compact and all
                                                      areas can easily be reached on foot,
       Complementary Therapy Centre and               and there are plentiful opportunities for
    Esoteric Gift Shop nestled in the heart of Ely.   some shopping or a drink and a spot of
                                                      lunch along the way.
     Offering a wide range of treatments for body
      and soul, along with a Gift Shop offering a     The long stretch of riverside has a
     wide range of products, including Fair Trade     magnetic attraction. The area near
    and Ethically sourced gifts and a full calendar   Jubilee Gardens is a great place to
      of events throughout the year including the     watch people and boats go by, and
    successful "Ely Pagan and Alternative Fayres"     perhaps enjoy the traditional sound of a
                                                      brass band on Sundays in the summer.
                                                      Cruises on the Liberty Belle are available
               www.positivelytreated.co.uk            and boat hire can be arranged for the
                      01353 666380                    more intrepid seafarers.
             Facebook.com/positivelytreated
       3 High Street Passage, Ely, Cambs, CB7 4NB
                                                      The message is:   Take it easy!
8
Visit 2020 - visitely.org.uk - Visit Ely
Days of activity
On foot
Ely’s name is
derived from
the time when
the city was
surrounded by
waterlogged
fenland and its
main trade was in
eels, providing the
inspiration for The
Eel Trail. This heritage
public art trail takes you on a
delightful circular walk through the
oldest parts of the city and down to
the riverside. Just follow the brass
way markers on this self-guided tour
and along the way you can enjoy
seven pieces of stunning art which
portray the life cycle of an eel.

Four legs good
Ely is well known as a dog-friendly centre and our four-legged friends are
welcome at many hotels, pubs and street cafes. There are of course plenty
of opportunities for dog walking throughout the area and the stretches of
riverbank to the east and west of the city are particularly popular. The local
accommodation which welcomes dogs includes the Lamb, the Nyton, Willow
Cottage, Hawthorn Cottage, Wood Fen Lodge, Garden Cottage, Hilary’s
Cottage and of course all the campsites and Head Fen Country Retreat.

                                                                                 9
Visit 2020 - visitely.org.uk - Visit Ely
The self-guided Ely Tales walk provides         Bishops of Ely to their palace in Little
     an enjoyable way to explore the city’s          Downham, and there is an attractive
     historic past. This tour follows the same       circular walk south through Little
     route as the Eel Trail but tells the story of   Thetford in an area known as Cawdle
     Ely through the eyes of the people who          Fen. Devil’s Dyke is an Anglo-Saxon
     would have lived and worked in the City.        Earthwork which crosses three ancient
     Learn about characters from the past,           Roman roads south of Newmarket and
     vividly described at each of the twelve         is up to 10m high in parts. A footpath
     stops. For a more personal tour, you            enables you to walk the seven mile
     may prefer to book a place on one of            length of Devil’s Dyke, and the
     the many guided walks organised by the          Earthworks Way walk is an eight mile
     Tourist Information Centre (see page 47).       route that encompasses three local
                                                     villages starting and ending at the
     Beyond the City there are a number              quaint village of Reach and crossing
     of historic walks, many following the           Devil’s Dyke along the way. The Fen
     river or visiting some of the pretty            Rivers Way follows the Rivers Cam and
     surrounding villages. The Bishops Way is        Great Ouse between Cambridge and
     a circular route which follows the tracks       King’s Lynn; you can of course choose
     that were used in medieval times by the         any section of the route.

         Details of all the local walks are available from the Ely
         Tourist Information Centre or at www.visitely.org.uk

      Sore feet?
     Aching legs?
      Relax in Ely with a massage.
         Feet, legs or full body.
         27 Market Place CB7 4NP
             01353 655 399
         www.Thaitouch.co.uk

10
Libert y Belle
            Ely river cruises
                  Captain Bob Todd: 07927 390380
               LIBERTY BELLE RIVER CRUISES
Daily 30 minute trips of Ely’s historic     Private cruises, supper cruises and extended
waterfront from the Maltings.               evening trips to one of three local riverside
Frequent departures from 11.00am with       restaurants. With moonlight return trip for
extended cruises available for groups       six or more passengers, booking essential.

     liberty belle cruises

                   The       local area
The beautiful setting of the eighteenth        shop, and the majestic Georgian house
century estate of Fordham Abbey,               and gardens are available for meetings
around ten miles south of Ely, is              and functions. Check their website at
home to the Dojima Sake Brewery                www.dojimabrewery.co.uk for details of
and officially opened as the UK’s first        special themed events during the year.
Japanese Sake brewery in 2018. Tours
of the brewery, with sake tastings, are
available via their website. Future plans
include a café, visitor centre and a

                                                                                            11
Burwell Museum
     & Windmill
     Celebrating 200 years of Stevens’ Mill!                                          Open
                                                                                     Easter to
     •   Explore the windmill
                                                                                     October
     •   Vintage vehicles
     •   Explore fen-edge life
     •   Special event days
     •   Local history research room
     •   Refreshments and shop
     Burwell Museum, Mill Close,
     Burwell CB25 0HD
     Tel: 01638 605544
     www.burwellmuseum.org.uk
           @burwellmuseum
     PLEASE CHECK WEBSITE FOR OPENING TIMES
     AND SPECIAL EVENT INFORMATION

                                              •   Large Diesel Engines
                                              •   History of Drainage
                                              •   Fun Family Activities
                                              •   Themed Event Days
                                              •   Group bookings welcome
                                              •   Tea shop and Gift Shop

                                              Main Street, Prickwillow, CB7 4UN
                                              Tel: 01353 720737 or 0780 105 0267
                                              email: prickwillowmuseumadm1@outlook.com
                                              www.prickwillowmuseum.com
                                              Find us on facebook       @museumatprickwillow

                                              Open 11th April until 4th October 2020; Saturday to
                                              Tuesday 12.00 to 16.00; event days 11.00 to 16.00

12
If life in the Fens captures your
imagination then a visit to Burwell
Museum is a must. Understand how life
as a farmer, a blacksmith, a soldier or a
housewife was in days gone by, and see
how they struggled or prospered in this
unique part of the world.

Denny Abbey and The Farmland
Museum are within easy reach of Ely
and each gives a fascinating insight        clocks. This magnificent example of
into what medieval Cambridgeshire           Jacobean architecture is built on the
life was like. English Heritage’s Denny     site of a 12th century Augustinian
Abbey still features its spectacular        priory and is surrounded by 98 acres
Norman interiors. Learn how this            of stunning landscaped gardens and
12th century Abbey has evolved, with        an arboretum with over 100 pieces of
informative displays and an abundance       sculpture. Famous for its wonderful
of children’s activities to keep everyone   winter garden, snowdrop walks and
happy. On the same site, The Farmland       delightful dahlia collections in the
Museum depicts Cambridgeshire’s rural       summer, Anglesey Abbey and Lode
history with archaeological finds and       Mill are well worth a visit.
interesting interactive displays. You can
hear the stories handed down through        Wicken Fen, also owned by the
the generations, visit the village shop     National Trust, is the ideal place to
and the stunning 17th Century stone         explore the fenland landscape as it
barn and workshops, where you will be       once looked. This nature reserve, of
fascinated to watch a basket maker and      national importance, is one of the few
a blacksmith at work.                       remaining fragments of undrained
                                            fenland, and home to rare species of
Nearby is Anglesey Abbey, a National        plants, insects and birds. A patchwork
Trust property which is home to a           of different habitats has encouraged
priceless art collection, including a       a vast range of wildlife making the
highly acclaimed Canaletto, and one         reserve one of the most important
of the Trust’s largest collections of       wetlands in Europe.

                                                                                     13
DOJIMA SAKE BREWERY
Dojima Sake Brewery is open for tours and guided
tastings by appointment only. The first of its kind
to be built in the UK, this stunning brewery is set
in the picturesque grounds of the Fordham Abbey
estate. Come for a truly unique experience which
combines English heritage with Japanese culture
and delicious, hand crafted sake.

The Georgian manor house and gardens are
also available for functions and conferences and
Japanese cultural events are planned throughout
the year. Join a brewery tour to find out about the
exclusive Dojima Members’ Club and several exciting
developments planned for 2020 and beyond!

Dojima Sake Brewery
Fordham Abbey, Cambridgeshire CB7 5LL
Tel: 01638 721695

For Membership details:
www.dojimabrewery.co.uk/dojima-members-club/

Sake enquiries, brewery tour bookings:
www.dojimabrewery.co.uk
info@dojimabrewery.co.uk

Event, functions, garden enquiries:
www.fordhamabbey.co.uk
office@fordhamabbey.co.uk

  DojimaSake     @dojimasake     fordhamabbey
The diverse wetland habitats of the
Ouse Washes Landscape are of
international significance and crucial for
the survival of a large number of rare
species, including booming bitterns,
Bewick’s swans and barn owls. You can
enjoy incredible wildlife encounters
throughout the year by visiting the
World Wildlife Trust’s Welney Wetland
Centre or the RSPB Ouse Washes,
Ouse Fen and Fen Drayton Lakes               that faced the Fenlanders in their
nature reserves.                             quest to develop this fertile corner of
                                             England.

                                             The Cambridge Aqua Park, just south
                                             of Ely off the A10, offers families
                                             the best possible reason to get
                                             wet! Open from April, it features an
                                             incredible inflatable obstacle course
                                             where you can jump into a wetsuit
                                             and lifejacket and burn off some
                                             energy. Close by is Hannams Wake
                                             Hub where you can try your hand at
                                             wakeboarding, with coaching from
                                             licenced operators if you need it.

If historic engines are of interest, then    Many of the attractions around Ely
Prickwillow Museum is the place to           run a variety of special events, tours
see. Packed with a huge collection           and activities aimed at all ages and
of engines, pumps and related                interests.
memorabilia, this Museum reflects the
exceptional engineering history of the       Take a look at the website
area. It tells the story of ‘The Drainage    www.visitely.org.uk or contact Ely’s
of The Fens’ and a visit on a ‘Run           Tourist Information Centre to find
Day’ will demonstrate the challenges         out more.

                                                                                       15
CAMBRIDGESHIRE’S PREMIER
     WAKEBOARD CENTRE
     Located just off the A10,
     Stretham, near Ely.

 PERSONALISED COACHING •FUN, SAFE & RELAXED ENVIRONMENT
               CHANGING & SHOWER FACILITIES

     WAKE BOARDING               B’DAY PARTIES
     KNEE BOARDING               CORPORATE / STAG / HEN
     INTRODUCTORY COURSE         GROUPS
     KID’S WAKEBOARDING COURSE   AND MUCH MORE!

16
FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY

               Family sessions age 6+
             Standard sessions age 8+

      Group booking and private Hire available

VISIT WWW.CAMBRIDGEAQUAPARK.COM
FOR FAQ’S AND TO BOOK YOUR SESSION
Three of a kind
         The Cambridge - Ely - Newmarket Triangle
     encompasses many of the great delights of the East
     of England: architectural masterpieces, wonderful
      open spaces, and a wealth of history and culture.
                                                   Cambridge is world renowned,
                                                   attracting visitors from around the
                                                   globe, and is within easy reach of
                                                   Ely. With its stunning architecture
                                                   and majestic college buildings,
                                                   the University is a central part of
                                                   Cambridge history. Be inspired by the
                                                   wealth of museums and art galleries
                                                   or explore the passageways that host
     Ten miles from Ely, Newmarket is globally     an array of shops and restaurants.
     regarded as the Home of Horseracing           Take a punt along the River Cam, see
     . The National Heritage Centre for            the famous ‘Backs’ and appreciate
     Horseracing and Sporting Art is situated      the serenity of this historic academic
     in Charles II’s sporting palace and stables   centre. The Fitzwilliam Museum
     and embodies three complementary              offers a vast collection of art from the
     attractions: the National Horseracing         14th century to modern times and
     Museum, a National Art Gallery of British     Cambridge is also home to a selection
     Sporting Art and a chance to meet former      of unique and specialist museums
     racehorses and learn what they do after       such as Museum of Cambridge and
     racing, in the flagship home of Retraining    Kettle’s Yard.
     of Racehorses. Visit the Newmarket
     Gallops then take a behind-the-scenes
     tour of a busy racing yard before heading
     to the prestigious members-only club,
     The Jockey Club Rooms, or meet
     newborn foals at The National Stud Tour.

     Newmarket is not just about horses:
     there are fantastic hotels, a luxury
     spa, restaurants, independent shops,          Discover the coastlines of North
     delightful tea rooms and wonderful            Norfolk and Suffolk
     attractions both in and around                Following the A10 north to King’s Lynn
     the town. To plan your time visit             or the A11 east to Norwich opens up a
     www.discovernewmarket.co.uk                   variety of coastal joys in North Norfolk.

18
There are traditional seaside resorts
such as Hunstanton, Sheringham and
Cromer, wildlife and walking centres                Zip to London
such as Brancaster, Wells next the                  Take advantage of Ely’s excellent
Sea and Blakeney and, away from the                 rail network and visit the famous
coast, some magnificent National Trust              sites of London by hopping on
properties such as Felbrigg Hall and                one of the trains that run hourly
Blickling Hall.                                     to the capital.

A ninety minute drive from Ely will take
you through many beautiful villages
in Suffolk to the delightful seaside
towns of Aldeburgh and Southwold,
both famous for their sedate pace
– with some wonderful walks – and
opportunities for shopping, and relaxing
on or near the beaches. On the way you
can also visit the Snape Maltings and
the attractive town of Woodbridge.

      Ely Tourist Information Centre can help you to plan
      your days out and meet your personal preferences.
                              See page 44 for details

                                       EXPERIENCE THE
                                     HOME OF HORSERACING
                                           Newmarket is a town that has strong ties to the Royal family. Go
                                           behind the scenes on one of Discover Newmarket’s public or bespoke
                                           guided tours and find out more about the history and heritage of
                                           this unique town. It’s not just about the horses though with fantastic
                                           hotels, award-winning restaurants, delightful independent shops
                                           and wonderful attractions like Palace House and The National Stud.

      BEHIND
    THE SCENES
      TOURS
     FROM £15

F            Visit the website to book your tour today                                                        I
T                          www.discovernewmarket.co.uk                                                        L

                                                                                                                    19
A      feast of food
        Great food is a key part of life in Ely and
       whatever your taste - English, European,
     American, Eastern, Traditional or Contemporary
          – you are sure to find what you crave.
            There are dozens of wonderful             From traditional to gastro, from
            places to eat within the city             fine dining to tempting set menus,
            and in the surrounding villages           there’s a great choice. Local
            and you’ll find a range of food           favourites include Poets House and
            from around the world as well             the Old Fire Engine House, both on
            as more traditional menus from            St Mary’s Street, the Prince Albert,
            restaurants boasting locally              Royal Standard, the Riverside Bar
            sourced fresh produce. And                and Kitchen, the Cutter, or try a taste
            where else might you be offered           of the exotic at Le Spice. There are a
            the delicacy of smoked eel pâté           number of popular restaurants which
            or eel pie? Don’t be daunted –            add to the variety, including the Ely
            their taste is genuinely special!         Turkish Restaurant and Meze Bar on

                                       A Family owned Deli Café Located on Ely Market Square
                                       offering a wide selection of Local Cheeses, Homemade
                                       Cakes, Brownies, Chutneys, Jams and Marmalades as
                                       well as flavoured Oils and Vinegars in refillable bottles.
                                       At our licensed café we have inside and outside seating.
                                       Our menu consists of Deli style rolls, Flatbreads, Toasted
                                       Focaccia Sandwiches, and Panini all filled with fresh
                                       ingredients. We have traditional Ploughmans lunches and
                                       specialise in Antipasti and cheese platters.
                                       Our passion for baking means we can offer an extensive
                                       range of our very own Homemade Cakes and Bakes daily.
                                       All of these are offered Eat In or Takeaway.
                                       We also produce our own brand of Homemade Preserves
                                       Platters also available for Parties and Business Lunches.
                                       Contact us for details
                                       01353 656947
     2017       lemontreedelicafe      9 Market Place, Ely CB7 4NP

20
Fore Hill which delivers a tasty
  New this year is     slice of Turkish cuisine and the
   the vegetarian      much-acclaimed Siam Seasons, a
    restaurant 68      Thai restaurant on Market Street.
    Market Street      Don’t miss the wide range of fresh
    (no prizes for     produce at the Lemon Tree
    guessing their     Deli Café in the Market Place
                       while 11A, just down Fore Hill, has
   address) which
                       a great selection of food and drink
 brings fresh local
                       from midday onwards. Peacocks
  ingredients into     Tearoom on Waterside also offers
 a varied seasonal     tea and cakes in the best British
    menu which is      tradition.
    largely plant-
 based. And don’t      The food theme is continued
  forget to sample     by the variety of fresh, locally
the delicious range    sourced produce available at
     of ice cream,     the regular street markets in
frozen yoghurt and     the city centre and at the Food
                       and Drink Festival in early May,
 waffles at Hadi’s
                       now in its eighth year and always a
   Gelato on Lynn
                       magnet for food and drink lovers.
Road: it’s arguably
  the coolest place    Ely also boasts a popular Cocktail
 in town and busy      Trail, stretching from Poets
   throughout the      House to the Royal Standard
          year!        on Fore Hill and on to the
                       Riverside Bar and Kitchen (RBK),
                       where experienced mixologists will
                       create the perfect drink. All of these
   There’s a strong    venues also offer great food. The
                       Waterside area has become a haven
 sense of nostalgia
                       for food lovers with a wide variety
      at Prospects
                       of venues with wonderful views
  Trust’s new shop     across the river.
  in the Lighthouse
  Building on Lynn     Head out into the nearby villages
      Road, which      and you will find restaurants
 brings a wonderful    with extensive and gourmet
selection from their   menus and a host of attractive
18 acre organic care   pubs where you can relax in
   farm a few miles    a picturesque setting while you
    from Ely. Bring    eat. The Red Lion Restaurant and
                       Bar in Soham has developed
 your own bags and
                       an enviable reputation,
    fill them with a
                       serving rustic British and
  selection of fresh   Mediterranean cuisine in a
         produce.      beautifully restored setting
                       in the centre of the town.
                                                                21
TheOld
                                                                         The
                                                                        The      Fire
                                                                             OldFire  Engine
                                                                                 FireEngine  House
                                                                                      EngineHouse
                                                                                              House
                                                                         TheRestaurant
                                                                               Old Fire
                                                                              Restaurant
                                                                              Restaurant&&&Engine
                                                                                            Gallery
                                                                                            Gallery
                                                                                          Gallery       House
                                                                                                     since
                                                                                                      since
                                                                                                   since   1968
                                                                                                            1968
                                                                                                          1968
                                                                             Restaurant & Gallery since 1968
                                                                            The  Old   Fire
                                                                          The restaurant
                                                                                             Engine       House
                                                   TheThe
                                                 The        restaurant
                                                          restaurant
                                                                restaurant& Gallery since 1968
                                                               Restaurant
                                                  The restaurant
                                                  serves       traditional
                                                 serves
                                               serves
                                                serves
                                                       serves traditional
                                                            traditional
                                                                  traditional
                                                             traditional
                                                   Fenland
                                                FenlandThe
                                                       Fenland
                                                  Fenland          recipes
                                                              restaurant
                                                                     recipes
                                                                 recipes
                                                                   recipes
                                                 Fenland
                                                  set    in
                                                    serves   a   recipes
                                                                 Georgian
                                                                traditional
                                               set
                                                set   set
                                                     in ina inGeorgian
                                                            a   a Georgian
                                                                Georgian
                                                set
                                                 housein a with
                                                     Fenland  Georgian
                                                                     walled
                                                                    recipes
                                              house
                                                househouse with
                                                             withwith  walled
                                                                   walled
                                                                     walled
                                               house        with
                                                    set gardens.   walled
                                                           in gardens.
                                                               a Georgian
                                                       gardens.
                                                          gardens.
                                                        gardens.
                                                   house       with walled
                                                 The The contemporary
                                                            gardens.
                                                            contemporary
                                              The
                                               The
                                               The   contemporary
                                                      contemporary
                                                        contemporary
                                                 art gallery
                                                        art gallery hosts  six
                                                                        hosts
                                              art
                                               art  gallery
                                                     gallery
                                                artThegallery     hosts
                                                                    hostssixsix
                                                                         six
                                                      sixcontemporary
                                                    exhibitions
                                                            exhibition and
                                                                         and
                                                  exhibitions
                                                 exhibitions
                                                   art    gallery
                                                   exhibitions       and
                                                                     and
                                                                     hosts
                                                                      andsix
      With a fantastic selection of handmade      preview
                                                      preview     evenings
                                                                    evenings
                                                preview
                                               preview         evenings
                                                               evenings
                                                      exhibitions      and
       gelato and sorbet flavours, along with   preview   per per evenings
                                                                 year.
                                                                    year.
                                                        per year.
                                                      per
                                                    preview    year.
                                                                   evenings
     freshly made crepes and waffles you can             per year.                      Lunch 12.15-2pm      daily
                                                                                 perLunch
                                                                                       year.
            enjoy a sweet treat at Hadi’s.                                            Lunch 12.15-2pm
                                                                                Afternoon     12.15-2pm
                                                                                              Teas
                                                                                                          daily
                                                                                                           daily Daily
                                                                                                    3.45-5.15pm
                                                                             Afternoon  Lunch
                                                                                            Teas12.15-2pm
                                                                                                  3.45-5.15pm daily
                                                                                                                Daily
                                                                            Afternoon    Lunch
                                                                                            Teas12.15-2pm
                                                                                                  3.45-5.15pmdaily
      Italian coffee and a range of hot/cold
                                                                               AfternoonDinner
                                                                                      Dinner    7-9pm
                                                                                              Teas
                                                                                              7-9pm     Mon-SatDaily
                                                                                                     3.45-5.15pm
                                                                                                       Mon-Sat      Daily
             beverages also available.                                            Afternoon
                                                                                      Dinner 7-9pm Mon-Sat Daily
                                                                                              Teas  3.45-5.15pm
                                                                                        Dinner
                                                                                         Dinner 7-9pm
                                                                                                 7-9pm   Mon-Sat
                                                                                                        Mon-Sat
          A short walk from the Cathedral                               Forallallreservations
                                                                       For         reservations   please
                                                                                                please    call
                                                                                                        call    01353
                                                                                                             01353     662582
                                                                                                                    662582
             3 Lynn Road Ely CB7 4EG                                  For all reservations      please call 01353 662582
                                                                                www.theoldfireenginehouse.co.uk
                                                                       ForFor
                                                                            all   reservations     pleasecall
                                                                                                           call01353
                                                                             www.theoldfireenginehouse.co.uk
                                                                                all reservations please          01353  662582
                                                                                                                      662582
                                                                            www.theoldfireenginehouse.co.uk
                                                                                info@theoldfireenginehouse.co.uk
     www.hadis-gelato.co.uk                                                  info@theoldfireenginehouse.co.uk
                                                                               www.theoldfireenginehouse.co.uk
                                                                                  www.theoldfireenginehouse.co.uk
                                                                            info@theoldfireenginehouse.co.uk
                                                                                  info@theoldfireenginehouse.co.uk
                                                                               info@theoldfireenginehouse.co.uk

     THE PRINCE ALBERT
                 Email: info@princealbertely.co.uk
                   Tel: 01353 663 494

                      Burger Fridays                                                BAR | RESTAURANT | HOTEL
                  Burger and a Drink for £10*                                   A great wine list, succulent steak’s and
        *Choice of draught beer or cider (except Old Rosie), or any
       soft drink, or any 125ml glass of wine (Booking advisable)             finest, fresh seafood are waiting for you...
                          Quiz Night
                      Every 3rd Wednesday
             Teams of up to 6, Cash Prizes - Booking Essential

                      Sunday Roasts
                        Served from 12pm
            Roast Sirloin of Beef, Pork Loin or Vegan nut roast,                              What’s on
             Main menu also available (Booking advisable)
                                                                                Live             HAPPY HOUR!                    STEAK
                     New Opening Hours
              Monday to Saturday 11am til 11:30 pm                           jazz Music       Choose from a selection
                                                                                              of our finest cocktails for
                                                                                                                               FRIDAYS
                                                                                                                            10oz flat iron steak,
                  Sunday 12pm til 10:30pm                                    with Dinner          just £5.00 each.
                                                                                              MONDAY TO FRIDAY
                                                                                                                             salad and a 175ml
                                                                                                                               glass of wine.
                                                                             FIRST THURSDAY
                                                                             OF EVERY MONTH     5PM TIL 7PM                   ONLY £15.00

22
Dating back to the 1600’s,
                                                                   The Red Lion in Soham
                                                                   is the quintessential
                                                                   English Country Pub,
                                                                   now reinvented as an
                                                                   innovative restaurant by
                                                                   Lucy Harper, formerly of
                                                                   the Old Fire Engine House
                                                                   in Ely.

                                                                   Lucy’s aim is to create a
                                                                   constantly changing menu
                                                                   dominated by classic
                                                                   English and Mediterranean
                                                                   dishes, presented with a
                                                                   modern, rustic twist.

                                                                   The Red Lion boasts
                                                                   an extensive list of
                                                                   predominantly French
                                                                   wines, but also featuring
                                                                   some new world wines
                                                                   from small producers.

                                                                   If you are planning a
                                                                   special event, take a
                                                                   look at our Coach House
                                                                   – the perfect venue for
                                                                   a wedding reception,
                                                                   banquet or party.

                                                                   We are open from
                                                                   Wednesday to Sunday.
                                                                   Please call or visit our
                                                                   website for detailed
                                                                   opening hours and
                                                                   reservations.

Red Lion Lodgings
Oozing with period charm, but enjoying every modern
convenience, the self-contained first floor flat at the Red Lion
provides the perfect base for guests wishing to explore the
sights of Cambridgeshire and Suffolk.
The apartment has a large sitting room, fully equipped
kitchen, two double bedrooms and a large bathroom.
For reservations, please refer to our ad on Airbnb.

          The Red Lion, 17 High Street, Soham, Cambridgeshire CB7 5HA
       Tel: 01353 771633                 •   www.redlionsoham.com
             info@theredlionsoham.co.uk • insta: @red_lion_soham
                                                                                                23
Our Goal is to provide great food and excellent service.
      We also aim to provide high quality authentic Indian
        food to you prepared by our experienced chefs.
       Our mission is to achieve customer satisfaction by
     providing consistently fresh, innovative, healthy foods
                using only the finest ingredients.

                     OUR OPENING HOURS
           SUNDAY to THURSDAY – 12.00 to 2.00 PM
                    and 5.00 to 11.00 PM
            FRIDAY & SATURDAY – 12.00 to 2.00 PM
                      & 5.00 to 11.30 PM

     (We are open 7 DAYS A WEEK including Bank Holiday)

        Tel: 01353 664299         www.ely-lespice.co.uk
24
PUB & RESTAURANT

Riverside pub and restaurant with amazing views on the               01353 662713
River Ouse. Choose from a number of ales or gins in our           thecutterinn.co.uk
riverside bar or dine on our menu of traditional classics         42 Annesdale, Ely,
        with a twist, in our waterfront restaurant.                       CB7 4BN

Vibrant and contemporary Bar & Dining, serving                       01353 666699
modern classic dishes and hand-crafted cocktails                   www.rbk-ely.co.uk
     on a picturesque spot on Ely’s riverside.              Ship Lane, Ely, CB7 4BB
                                                                                       25
What’s On 2020
     January                                       Friday 8 to Sunday 10 May
     Winter Swan Feed at WWT Welney Wetland        Ely’s Eel Festival Weekend
     Centre                                        Incorporating Eel Day and Food and
     Witness one of nature’s amazing spectacles    Drink Festival
     as thousands of ducks and swans migrate for   A celebration of Ely’s eel traditions
     the winter                                    including the ‘World Eel Throwing
     www.wwt.org.uk                                Championships’ on Eel Day, and at the
                                                   Food and Drink Festival discover the
     Sunday 12 January                             best of local produce with celebrity chef
     The Soul and Serenity Fayre                   demonstrations and lots of tasters
     www.facebook.com/positivelytreated            www.visitely.org.uk

     Thursday 16, Friday 17 and Saturday 18        Sunday 10 May
     January                                       Reach Fair
     10th Ely Beer Festival (CAMRA)                Traditional Country Fair
     A chance to sample a variety of local beers   In 1201 King John granted a charter for
     and ciders                                    the holding of a fair in Reach and it has
     www.elycamrabeerfest.com                      taken place ever since
                                                   www.reachfair.org.uk
     1 February to 15 March
     Ely Cathedral Crowns and Gowns Exhibition     16 May to 15 June
     Costumes from award winning films and         Ely Cathedral Heaven & Earth:
     television series filmed on location at Ely   The world in OUR Hands
     Cathedral                                     Luke Jerram’s installation “Gaia”, a
     www.elycathedral.org                          seven metre replica of planet Earth
                                                   www.elycathedral.org
     Sunday 29 March
     Ely’s Spring Pagan and Alternative Fayre      June (date to be announced)
     www.facebook.com/positivelytreated            Etheldreda Fair
                                                   Stalls, teas and entertainment
                                                   www.elycathedral.org

                                                   June to August (various dates)
                                                   Riverside Concerts in Jubilee Gardens
                                                   Listen to some traditional band music in
                                                   a beautiful riverside setting
                                                   www.cityofelycouncil.org.uk

                                                   Sunday 5 July
                                                   Ely Aquafest
                                                   Lots of river fun and entertainment on
                                                   and around the water
                                                   www.elyaquafest.co.uk
26
@visitely

Friday 10 to Sunday 12 July                   Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 October
Ely Folk Festival                             Prickwillow Ploughing Festival
A bijou weekend of folk and roots music       Heavy horses and tractors, engines and
festival                                      statics. Trade, bygones and crafts plus live
www.elyfolkfestival.co.uk                     music and family entertainment.
                                              www.prickwillowmuseum.com
Saturday 11 July
World Pea Shooting Championships              Saturday 17 October
Pea shooting competitions for all,            Ely’s Apple Festival
including side stalls and entertainment       Celebration of the British apple with lots of
www.witcham.org.uk                            apple fun and entertainment
                                              www.visitely.org.uk
July and August
Summer Walks and Guided Tours                 October
Programme to be announced soon,               Halloween Ghost Tours
check website for details.                    Experience for yourself the Ghosts of Ely!
www.visitely.org.uk                           www.olivercromwellshouse.co.uk

Friday 11 to Sunday 13 September              Friday 13 and Saturday 14 November
Ely’s Heritage open weekend                   Ely Cathedral Christmas Fair
Visit many of the City’s buildings for free   Craft stalls and entertainment
and visit some venues not usually open        www.elycathedral.org
to the public. Full programme to be
announced in the Spring.                      Saturday 21 November
www.visitely.org.uk                           Ely’s Yule Ball
                                              www.facebook.com/positivelytreated
Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September
Haddenham Steam Engine Rally                  Friday 27 November
Traditional Steam and Country Fair            Ely Christmas Lights Celebrations
www.haddenhamsteamrally.co.uk                 Stalls, entertainment and music
                                              www.cityofelycouncil.org.uk
Sunday 20 March
Ely’s Autumn Pagan and Alternative            December
Fayre                                         Ely Cathedral Carol Concerts
www.facebook.com/positivelytreated            Celebrate Christmas at the Carol Concerts
                                              throughout December
Saturday 26 September                         www.elycathedral.org
Soham Pumpkin Fair
Various produce competitions and family       Friday 11 December to Sunday 3 January 2021
entertainment                                 KD Theatre Production Panto, Sleeping
www.sohampumpkinfair.co.uk                    Beauty at the Maltings, Ely Riverside
                                              www.kdtheatre.co.uk

                                                                                                 27
30 things to see and do in and around Ely
                                                                  Digest the
                                             Enjoy a day of       delights of the     Listen to a
                                             retail therapy       Ely Food Festival   Brass Band

NEQUALLED                                    Explore the
                                             former home of
                                             the Lord Protector   Hire a bike
                                                                                      Sample some
                                                                                      sweet treats

                          ESCAPE ROOM
                                                                                      Climb the 165
                                             See a twilight                           steps to the
                                             Swan Feed at         Buy an antique or   Cathedral’s
                                             Welney               a work of art       Octagon Tower
      OLIVER CROMWELL’S HOUSE
he Curious Case of Curator Chadwick

                                             Visit Newmarket’s
                                             National
                                             Horseracing          Take in a concert   Visit a
                                             Museum               at the Cathedral    street market
0 and the
 as rented the
Room of the
ge out to his
 end, Curator
 us Chadwick.
  few weeks                                  Test your wits in                        Revel at the
 teriously
    28                                       the Escape Room      Go fishing          Eel Festival
30 things to see and do in and around Ely
                                          Find out how
Discover the world   Go for a             the Fens were
of stained glass     river cruise         drained

 Indulge yourself    Visit a
 with a massage      garden centre       Go for a swim

                                         Treat yourself to
                                         lunch or dinner
 See the ancient                         at any number of
 Fen landscape       Enjoy a cocktail    restaurants and
 at Wicken Fen       or two              cafes

 Watch the                               Investigate the
 Cambridge                               quaint side street
 University rowers                       shops that criss-
 train on the Ouse   Take a Ghost Tour   cross the City

 Attend the World
 Pea Shooting                            Savour the taste of
 Championships       Visit a Museum      Japanese Sake                                    29
Thursday 7 to
                                                      Sunday 10 May
     A celebration of all that’s best in Ely with
     a special 1940s’ theme to mark the 75th
     Anniversary of VE Day
     Thursday 7 May
     The Eel Food Safari and Eel Throwing
     Championships on St Mary’s Green
     This year the celebrations over the Bank Holiday Weekend in Ely
     take on a 1940s’ theme to mark the 75th Anniversary of Victory in
     Europe (VE) Day.

     The Festival weekend kicks off with the launch of the fabulous Eel Food Safari and
     runs across all four days of the Eel Festival. Every year some of the finest restaurants,
     cafes and other businesses in Ely create a dish or drink involving or inspired by the
     Eel. In past years there have been smoked eel platters and eel shaped cheese straws
     and even seen a cocktail inspired by the eel and its more electrifying cousin from the
     Atlantic. If you have ever been tempted by the prospect of eel, now is the time to try
     it – or just stick with the hundreds of other dishes on offer.

     Check the website at www.elyeelfestival.co.uk for the latest information.

       MAIN SPONSOR

30
30
Friday 8 May
Eel Day and the 75th Anniversary
of Victory in Europe (VE) Day
10.30 am to 4.30 pm, Jubilee Gardens
Eel Day incorporates the Eel Parade, the World Eel Throwing Championships and
features a Morris Dancing Festival.

New for 2020 will be a mini Folk Festival organised by The Cutter Inn taking place in
the evening in Jubilee Gardens. Please visit www.elyeelfestival.co.uk for details.

This day is part of a national celebration of VE Day and will include a service at the
Cathedral. It encompasses everything from eel throwing to eel tastings but it also
has a serious side. An established annual festival, it commemorates traditions that
all too often ebb away, with folk music, dancing, historical displays, games, craft and
food stalls.

It starts with a colourful, musical procession from Cross Green, next to the Cathedral,
headed up by Ellie the Eel – a giant version of our famous fish. The procession
meanders through the city, along Waterside and arrives at Jubilee Gardens. Once
there, families can compete in Eel Throwing (not real eels!) and tuck into smoked
and jellied eels washed down by a special Eel Day Brew. As you would imagine, eels
feature massively in the day and there will be the chance to see live eels, courtesy
of the Environment Agency. There will also be a hog roast, pizza and various food
vendors offering alternative fare.

                                                                                          31
Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May
     10.30 am to 4.30 pm, Palace Green
     Ely’s eighth Food and Drink Festival offers a wealth of artisan traders, an
     extensive street food scene and celebrity chefs demonstrating in our fabulous
     Cookery Theatre.

     The Food and Drink Festival takes place on Saturday and Sunday with a fantastic
     line up of chef demonstrations, and all our stalls will have a VE Day theme,

     All the smaller artisan, specialist food and drink traders will be housed in the
     large Food Marquee with lots of samples and tasters available. Outside in The
     Street Food Place there is an array of traders who all offer something different and
     exciting to tantalise your taste buds. The Food and Drink Market is a collection of
     traders offering a wide range of products, presented to a very high standard.

     Further entertainment will be available throughout the City on both days with
     many of the shops opening especially for the weekend.

     Details of the Celebrity Chefs at the 2020 Ely Food and Drink Festival will be
     announced soon on social media and at www.visitely.org.uk

         Details of the Celebrity Chefs at the 2020 Ely Food and
         Drink Festival will be announced soon on social media
                       and at www.visitely.org.uk

32
Handcrafted, traditional, English, crumbly fudge -
made fresh daily, in front of your eyes!
Come in and try some of our lovely flavours, available
loose or packaged, in pretty gift bags, beautiful ribboned
boxes, filled mugs and much more – let us create the
ideal present for any occasion!
                                                                       Follow us on
Ely Fudge Company,
                                                                Facebook, Twitter
31 Market Place, Ely, Cambs CB7 4NT
                                                                   and Instagram
Tel: 01353 654099
                                                                 for regular fudge
email: info@elyfudge.co.uk
                                                             updates, competitions
www.elyfudge.co.uk                                                 and much more!

   Nestled in the heart of Forehill, Ely 11a offers a stylish venue with a
  variety of food and drinks, ranging from a selection of afternoon teas
 to authentic Spanish Tapas and everything in-between. 11a is ideal for
 get togethers, gatherings or just as a great drinking and dining option.
   In addition we offer fantastic private hire facilities for all occasions.
     A great all round venue with a flair for quality, style and service.

    Contact us on 01353 610542 or email info@elevena.co.uk
                    www.elevena.co.uk
                                                                                      33
LUNCH
      FROM

     6.95

      “BEST THAI I’ve had”                                                            review on tripadvisor

      “what a FANTASTIC experience!”                                                     review on GOOGLE

                            SIAM SEASONS is a family run business which aims
                            to serve food cooked with love and care at
                            a reasonable price and in a warm atmosphere.
                            ‘JUST 3 MINUTES’ WALK FROM ELY CATHEDRAL
                                                                         Newnham St

                                                        Ely Museum

                                                         Market St                             Lunch: 12:00 - 3:00pm
                                           Lynn Rd

  Sujan has worked                                      SIAM SEASONS
                                                                                               Dinner: 5:30 - 10:00pm
 as a head chef in the uk   St Mary’s St
                                                                                               Mon: closed
                                                         High St
    for more than
                                           Minster Pl

                                                         Ely Cathedral
       15 years.                                                                                       Review: 4.9/5

                                                                                                       Review: 4.5/5
SIAM SEASONS THAI RESTAURANT
39-41 MARKET STREET, ELY CB7 4LZ                                                                       Free wifi
BOOKINGS: 01353 669930 OR SIAMSEASONS.COM
Ely Turkish Restaurant
    and Meze Bar
     Ely Turkish Restaurant is celebrating an incredible first year and
  continues to offer a warm welcome to their family run eatery offering
 a wide range of freshly prepared Turkish dishes, evoking the flavours
 of the wonderful Turkish cuisine. With a range of hot and cold dishes,
 catering for all tastes and with the added bonus of a Meze Bar, with a
 range of beautiful cocktails, Ely Turkish Restaurant is a perfect place
   to enjoy a meal for any occasion. Also offering a Lunchtime Menu –
      Monday to Friday, 12 Noon until 4pm – Two courses for £8.95.

33 Fore Hill, Ely, CB7 4AA • Tel: 01353 668811
THE

                                                       ELY GIN         COMPANY

                                  The Ely Gin shop can be found at

                                                                                                                                           co
                                                                                                                                            in
                                                                                                                                               lyg
                                                                                                                                             /e
                                                                                                                                                 m
                                  2/3 Buttermarket, CB7 4NY

                                                                                                                                                       k k.co
                                                                                                            ne

                                                                                                                                                     .u eboo
                                                                                                                a
                                                                                                           hin L
                                                                                                                              Market

                                                                                                                                                 .c fac
                                  (next to “Tea for Two”)                                                                     Squ.

                                                                                                      Dolp

                                                                                                                                                   o
                                                                                                                                                         G yginco
                                                                                      High                     Butte
                                                                                                                    rmark

                                                                                                                                                          in
                                                                                             Stree                       et

                                                                                                                                                                l
                                                                                                  t

                                                                                                                                                                ly
                                  s Locally made gins & vodkas
                                  s Internationally-sourced tonics & mixers
                                                                                 @elyginco
                                  s Quality glassware                www.ElyGin.co.uk
                                  s Original gifts

                                  Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm
                                  Tel: 01353 968871
        Present this advert for 10% discount in store. Offer valid until 31/10/2020, single use per voucher.

                    www.ElyGin.co.uk
     info@elygin.co.uk   twitter @elyginco     facebook.com/elyginco
                                                                                      Three floors of
                                                                           pure nostalgia

                                                                                Housing a vast selection of paintings,
                                                                               antiques & vintage items. Vinyl records,
                                                                                  books, postcards and thousands of
                                                                                things you thought no longer existed!
                                     •

                         01353 668 564                                     CLOISTERS
                         an d n ow o n l i n e . . .                       ANTIQUES
                 e e lcatch e rsdaug h ter.c o .u k                                    1 Lynn Road, Ely
                                                                                      Tel: 01353 668558
                                                                           80 yards from the Cathedral                        •   Closed Tuesdays

36
Shopping
Ely offers everything you would
expect from an age-old market city
- and plenty of surprises too.
With nationally known chain stores,     Markets have been a part of Ely life for
delightful specialist shops and         centuries and continue to offer a vast selection
award-winning markets, some             today, from household essentials and your
window-shopping or some serious         weekly provisions, fruit and vegetables to
spending will be a feature of any       unique arts and crafts, retro and vintage
visit.                                  artefacts, fresh local produce and all kinds of
                                        artisan foods and delicious street fare.
For those looking for something
a little different, the city abounds    Farmers’ Markets offer the best of local,
with small, independent shops,          seasonal produce from rare breed meats to
notably on the quaint side streets      Fen vegetables, fresh fish, artisan cakes and
in the city centre. There are           bread, puddings and pies, plant-based and
specialist fashion shops, gift shops,   gluten-free foods, cut flowers, plants and herbs
craft shops, bookshops, antique         and much more.
shops and art galleries, and plenty
of places to sit and relax and many
pubs and pavement cafes for a             The calendar is packed with activity:
drink and a snack.
                                          Charter Market          Every Thursday
    Look out for special                  Craft & Collectibles Every Saturday
   events all year round
                                          Farmers’ Market         Every second and
  including the Flavours                                          fourth Saturday
 of the World and special
                                          Craft, Food and         Every first, third
    Christmas Markets,
                                          Vintage Market          and fifth
   family entertainment                                           Saturday
     and Bank Holiday
     Markets. Find up                     Sunday Market           Every Sunday
                                                                  and Bank
     to date details at
                                                                  Holiday Monday
    www.visitely.org.uk

                                                                                           37
38
KAYS OF ELY
        Lighting & Gifts
           For bright ideas...
                                              KITCHENS | BEDROOMS | REPAIRS
      We specialise in Light Bulbs!             RESTORATIONS | SPRAY SHOP
                   ...                          COLOUR MATCHING | BESPOKE

                    ...

                   ….

www.kaysofely.co.uk Facebook: /kaysofely
                                                   SUPPLIERS OF NEW, ANTIQUE,
                                               SECONDHAND AND BESPOKE FURNITURE

                                                   12 CHEQUER LANE, ELY CB7 4LN
      Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4LB                   01353 659005 / 666772
                                                               @interiorsofely
              01353 666354
                                                www.interiorsofely.co.uk

Arts and Entertainent
 Ely boasts a thriving arts scene and an impressive
       programme of events to suit all tastes.
They range from the fun and quirky         There is a strong interest in the
Eel Festival Weekend, the Pumpkin          Performing Arts, encouraged by
Fair and the World Pea Shooting            the well-established KD Academy
Championships to a programme of            which nurtures young talent and
cultural events during the Isle of Ely     helps develop their skills in all arts
Arts Festival which this year runs from    disciplines.
13 June to 18 July. See the What’s On
section on page 26-27 for a full list of
events.

                                                                                    39
The Cathedral has a full line up of              at Christmas along with a year-round
     concerts and events throughout the               selection of films. The Babylon Gallery
     year, the majestic setting adding to the         on Waterside and the Haddenham
     enjoyment. The Maltings is host to two           Gallery feature a varied series of art
     major Arts and Crafts Fairs in June and          exhibitions which are very much a part
     November, courtesy of Art Unequalled,            of the Ely calendar.
     and stages a professional pantomime

               Keep up to date with all the events at
                       www.visitely.org.uk

                                     Galleries | Workshops | Tea Room
                                     Gift Shop | Events | Artists’ Studios
                                     Tucked just off the village High Street, view our changing
                                     exhibitions, stroll around our wonderful gardens, buy a birthday
                                     card and gift, meet friends for lunch or tea and homemade cake.
                                     Showcasing the best from local and regional artists & makers.

                                     Open: Tues – Sat 10am – 5pm, Sun 12pm – 5pm (Closed Mon)
                                     www.haddenhamartscentre.org.uk
                                     Tel: 01353 749188 • Free onsite parking
                                     20 High Street, Haddenham, CB6 3XA

                        ART UNEQUALLED

40
CARNIVAL OF THE ANIMALS
@ Ely Cathedral

SING! CHOIRS PICNIC CONCERT
@ the Bishop’s Garden

ELY CHORAL SOCIETY
IN CONCERT

Carnival Story Tent
@ Haddenham Arts Centre

and many more events to be
announced!
WHEN YOU’RE IN ELY – TAKE IN A SHOW!

      Why not book tickets for our 2020 productions?

                     ONLINE: WWW.KDTHEATRE.CO.UK
                     PHONE: 01353 725 026
                     FACEBOOK: KDTHEATREPRODUCTIONS
                     TWITTER: @KD_THEATRE INSTAGRAM: KD_THEATRE
42
Ely Cinema at The Maltings

    Independent cinema in a beautiful riverside location
    Bar available pre film and in the interval for theatre screenings.
    See babylonarts.org.uk for upcoming films and live theatre screenings.

    Babylon Gallery the Riverside

    A small, intimate space with bags of charm located on
    the picturesque riverside in Ely
    Visit our Gallery shop: great gift ideas or treats for yourself - including glassware,
    prints, paintings, ceramics, tea-towels and mugs - lovingly made by local artists.
    Open: Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 4pm with free entry. Dogs welcome.
    See babylonarts.org.uk for upcoming exhibitions and workshops.

Developing Creativity and
Connecting Communities
with Arts and Culture
Tel: 01353 616991 · www.babylonarts.org.uk
Babylon ARTS is operated by ADEC, a registered company limited by guarantee no: 2999055. Registered charity in England & Wales no: 1043197.
Tourist
     Information
     Centre
     A warm welcome awaits you from           Gift Shop
     our friendly and knowledgeable           As well as an Information Centre and
     team, based in the historic setting      Visitor Attraction, Oliver Cromwell’s
     of Oliver Cromwell’s House on            House is home to its own delightful gift
     St Mary’s Street.                        shop stocking a variety of souvenirs, local
                                              produce as well as unusual gifts.
     We can provide a wealth of information
     whether you plan to stay for the day,    Function Room
     a short break or even longer. Our well   Our 17th Century Tithe Office is a beautiful
     stocked Centre provides a variety of     oak-panelled room which makes the
     leaflets and publications covering the   perfect setting for small meetings,
     whole country, so we can assist you      gatherings and is ideal as a rest stop for
     with your onward journey.                your group. Please ask for hire details.

     Call in and see how we can help          Escape Room
     you with:                                Gather your friends, family or colleagues
     • Accommodation                          for the perfect memorable experience as
                                              you work together to find the clues and
     • Local travel information
                                              solve the puzzles which will allow you to
     • Extensive range of leaflets and        escape – or not!
       publications
     • Box office service
     • What’s on guide
     • Information on group visits
     • Local interest books and maps
     • Cycle routes and walks

     Opening Hours
     Summer Hours:
                                              Ely Tourist Information Centre
     1st April to 31st October
     10.00am to 5pm, daily including          29 St Mary’s Street, Ely
     Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays       Cambridgeshire CB7 4HF
     Winter Hours:                            Tel: 01353 662062
     1st November to 31st March
     11.00am to 4.00pm daily
                                              E-mail: info@visitely.org.uk
     Closed: Christmas Day, Boxing Day        www.visitely.org.uk
     and New Year’s Day                         @visitely       /visitely
44
ESCAPE ROOM
   AT O L I V E R C R O M W E L L ’ S H O U S E
      The Curious Case of Curator Chadwick

It’s 1910 and the
Vicar has rented the
Tithe Room of the
Vicarage out to his
dear friend, Curator
Cornelius Chadwick.
After a few weeks
he mysteriously
disappears. Come and
hunt for clues, solve
the puzzles and help
locate the enigmatic
Curator.

Ideal for up to 8 players. Great for families, team building, puzzle enthusiasts, birthdays and occasions.
Available every weekend and other days by prior arrangement. £95 per session. Included in the session
                          price is a self-guided tour of Oliver Cromwell’s House.
                   Oliver Cromwell’s House, 29 St Mary’s Street, Ely. CB7 4HF
               01353 662062 info@visitely.org.uk www.olivercromwellshouse.co.uk
                      @cromwellshouse           @cromwellshouse           @visit_ely                    45
at
         Oliver Cromwell’s House, Ely
                This is an evening like no other.
             Come dine with us in Cromwell’s very
           own Kitchen but keep your wits about you.
            One of your fellow diners is harbouring
                        a terrible secret.

               Let the thespian in you come out as
               you move around the House looking
             for clues to discover just which of your
                      party is the murderer.

             Visit www.olivercromwellshouse.co.uk
                       for more intrigue

    Oliver Cromwell’s House, 29 St Mary’s Street, Ely. CB7 4HF
01353 662062 info@visitely.org.uk www.olivercromwellshouse.co.uk
                @cromwellshouse      /cromwellshouse
Guided Tours
and Walks
Experience a journey back through the ages
in the company of a City of Ely Tourist Guide
or Blue Badge Guide as they lead you around
Ely’s medieval streets and monastic buildings.
Hear the secrets, stories and scandals that
have shaped Ely’s past.
A full programme of themed walks is available     Some of the guided walking
throughout the year including every Sunday        tours available are:
from 2nd July to 1st October and every
Bank Holiday, departing from the Tourist          • Ely and its Riverside
Information Centre at 11.30 am.
                                                  • Ely’s Eel Heritage
These tours are available as public tours as      • Historical City of Ely
well as for private group hire. We also provide
a range of pre-booked tours, with costumed        • Ely through its Architecture
guides, of Oliver Cromwell’s House:               • Discover Ely’s Monastic
                                                    Buildings
We can expand any of these tours with visits
to other attractions such as Ely Cathedral, the
Stained Glass Museum and Ely Museum

Information for Group Organisers
Our dedicated group advisor can help plan
your visit to Ely and the surrounding area and
make bookings for attractions, tours, meals
etc for you. For this free service, please call
01353 662062 or see www.visitely.org.uk

Coaches are able to drop off (CB7 4DL) at the
Cathedral (15 minute wait only) that is less
than a five minute walk from the High Street
and Market Place. We offer free parking for
coaches.

                                                                                   47
48
Always accommodating
  The growing popularity of Ely as a base                    Whatever your preference, you can
  for exploring the East of England has                      explore at your own pace. Remember
  been marked by the growing number                          that London is just over an hour away
  of excellent places to stay, both within                   by train so you can see the capital’s
  the city and in the surrounding villages.                  sights without paying London overnight
  You can choose from a list of luxury                       prices!
  hotels, charming bed and breakfast,
  self-catering accommodation or
  campsites. New this year is the Head
  Fen Retreat, a beautiful riverside
  site just north of Ely which features a
  selection of six country lodges, great
  for walking, fishing or simply relaxing.

        The Tourist Information Centre at Oliver Cromwell’s House
       will be happy to assist you in finding suitable accommodation.
          Please call in or visit the website at www.visitely.org.uk

 Camping &
 Glamping at

Mad Hatters Campsite consists of five
acres of wildflower grassy field with a
                                                               Fen Cottage
beautiful pond, and over three acres                             Fen Cottage nestles between open farmland
of newly planted trees and hedges.                              (with views of Ely Cathedral), the Ouse Washes
                                                              (internationally renown bird and wildlife watchers
                                                                      paradise) and Oxlode Fishing Lakes.
Campfires!                                     Luna tents    Dating from 1710, this two bedroom self contained
                                                                cottage is full of both traditional charm and
                                                               modern comforts. Fen Cottage is the perfect
                                                                 place for a romantic getaway for two but
                                                              comfortably accomodates four people. A truly
                           Perfect for event                 rural retreat only 6 miles from Ely City Centre and
                           hire & Mad Hatter
                            themed parties!
                                                                                Welney WWT.
                                                                               Mrs Dawn Clark
Mad Hatters Campsite
                                                                            Tel: 0787 964 1680
Clayway Farm
CB7 4UE, Ely
                                          07796 261211                 Email: dawnmarshall@aol.com
SatNav Postcode: CB7 4UD
                              www.madhatterscampsite.co.uk
                                                                                 @fencottage

                                                                                                                   49
PO E T S HO U S E
              H OT E L & R ESTAU R A N T

Poets House, located in the heart of historic Ely, blends
old period charm with a stunningly innovative interior. Our
luxurious suites, fabulous food and great service makes our
hotel the perfect location for business travel, weekend breaks
and celebrations in Cambridgeshire.

Stay in one of our luxurious suites with stunning views. Relax
in our Study Bar, catching up with friends for afternoon tea or
a decadent cocktail. Dine in our stunning Dining Room where
you will be served a great selection of seasonal dishes, using
fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

We look forward to welcoming you to Poets House.

For more information please contact our team on 01353 887777,
e-mail reception@poetshouse.uk.com or visit www.poetshouse.uk.com
The Lamb Hotel
      Tel: 01353 663574 Email: lambelyreservations@greeneking.co.uk Web: www.oldenglishinns.co.uk

 Originally built as a coaching inn in the 15th century, The Lamb sits near to Ely Cathedral. A
grand building with 37 en-suite bedrooms, the hotel blends comfort and tradition, ensuring that
           guests enjoy their visit and relax while staying in the beautiful city of Ely.
 The Lamb also offers meeting facilities for up to 16 people, with free WI-FI. So why not hold a
                     meeting in an historic inn and escape the busy office?
Extensive food and bar menu which will take you from breakfast right through until the evening.

           The Coach
                  at
                     House
           Cathedral House
     Self-Catering • Free Private Parking
      Ensuite Bathrooms • Wi-Fi & TV
   Only one minute from the Cathedral and situated in secluded walled
  garden, this unique Grade II listed Coach house provides comfortable
   surroundings with its vintage furnishing and many original features.
 There is a country style kitchen and cosy, book-lined sitting room to relax
  in. Enjoy a view of the Cathedral’s Octagon from one of the bedrooms.
     A wide variety of restaurants, pubs, cafes as well as Ely Museum,
   Oliver Cromwell’s House and Stained Glass Museum are all close by.
                    Sleeps 4. Children over 12 welcome.
     Linen, towels, light, heat and basic household supplies included.

01353 662124 • email: farndale@cathedralhouse.co.uk
          www.cathedralhouse.co.uk
                                                                                                    51
Head Fen Country Retreat
offers luxurious family-run
lodge, cottage and glamping
accommodation in the tranquil
Cambridgeshire countryside,
a wildlife haven with four
beautiful lakes and free fishing
for all its guests.
It’s a fantastic spot to escape the noise and
hassle of everyday life and explore Cambridge,
Ely and all of East Anglia. Nearby Welney
Wetlands Centre is a magnet for birdwatchers,
but many of its colourful seasonal visitors
frequent Head Fen too, including egrets,
woodpeckers, corncrakes, swans, shoveler ducks
and Egyptian Geese. The site owners, brothers
Mark and Richard Taylor, plan to add a grassed
area for roe deer.

Four outstanding modern lodges at Head
Fen stand on the lakeside with views to Ely
Cathedral. They sleep up to six people in a king
sized bed, two singles plus a sofa bed in the
living area. They have large bathroom suite
facilities, multiple smart TVs and a DVD player,
wi-fi and a kitchen with appliances including
an oven, microwave and fridge/freezer. All have
air con and terraces and Cathedral View 3 has a
sauna too.

Egret Park lodges are one bedroomed and have
their own romantic hot tubs from which to
enjoy the starry night skies, while Egret House
is a two bedroomed cottage, also with a hot
tub. Additionally, two cosy contemporary pods
have their own private fishing pegs. One is dog
friendly, the other a dog free zone.

CATHEDRAL VIEW 2, EGRET PARK 2
AND LITTLE EGRET 2 (POD) ARE ALL
DOG FRIENDLY LODGES.
Head Fen Country Retreat
Little Downham, Ely CB6 2ER
07971 574 375,
admin@HeadFenCountryRetreat.co.uk
www.HeadFenLakes.co.uk
www.HeadFenCountryRetreat.co.uk
You can also read