CAMBRIDGESHIRE A City full of history. A bustling riverside. Celebrating Ely s Eel Heritage

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1 Visit ELY CAMBRIDGESHIRE 2014 A bustling riverside Celebrating Ely s Eel Heritage A City full of

2 Contents Welcome to Ely 2-3 Visit Ely 4-5 Riverside and Leisure activities 6-7 Suggested Itinerary 9 Out and About Beyond Ely Retail and Markets 15 Food and Drink Events in and around Ely Guided Tours of Ely 24 Ely Tourist Information 25 Accommodation Finding Ely Back cover

3 Rural charm right in the heart of the city Welcome to ELY An intriguing mixture of old and new, Ely is a place to visit time and time again. Strong traditions A rich history You can feel the City s time honoured past as you journey through its narrow streets flanked by Victorian, Georgian and 16th Century buildings, Cathedral gardens and delightful waterfront. Ely is also home to a plethora of restaurants, cafés and antique shops, meaning there is something for all tastes. Take in the relaxing views across the River Ouse as a variety of boats gently cruise past or delight in the busy City Centre, where a range of boutique and gift shops charm visitors from around the world. With tranquility, elegance and history combining together, Ely is a truly exceptional place to enjoy. Close to Cambridge and within easy reach of the Norfolk and Suffolk coastline, Ely is an ideal base from which to explore and, with London just an hour away by train, there really is something to appeal to everyone. You will find more Information at or call the Ely Tourist Information Centre on A vibrant Cathedral Ancient skills t: Visible for miles around, Ely Cathedral looms proudly over this modern city, which remains loyal to its medieval roots Ely Guide Produced by East Cambridgeshire District Council. We have tried to make this guide as accurate and user-friendly as possible. The District Council does not accept responsibility for errors and omissions, nor does inclusion in the guide imply recommendation. Design: 3

4 ELY Visit Renowned for its Cathedral, with its unique Octagon Tower, the City has developed around this magnificent structure. The Cathedral you can enjoy today originates from the 11th Century and is a place to enjoy at your own pace or with the benefit of an informative guided tour. If you have the stamina, you can make the worthwhile climb to take in the spectacular views from the Octagon and West Towers. As a thriving cultural centre, the Cathedral also hosts a number of concerts and events throughout the year. Just two minutes away from the Cathedral is another of Ely s main attractions: Ely Museum. Set in the City s former Gaol, the friendly museum takes you on a journey from prehistoric times to the twentieth century. The museum boasts a fascinating collection of memorabilia relating to the Isle of Ely and the surrounding Fenland. You can visit the original prison cells, handle the fossils and study the Roman remains before enjoying an archive film of the Fens. This coupled with an exciting programme of special events and temporary exhibitions, makes the museum appealing to all age groups. one of a kind! The Stained Glass Museum, situated in the South Triforium of the Cathedral, houses a wonderful collection and is the only one of its kind in the country. The experience is enhanced by a highly acclaimed audio-guided tour which tells the history of stained glass through the ages.

5 There is so much to see as you walk through the City taking in the attractive blend of modern and medieval architecture. One example of an impressive 17th Century building is Oliver Cromwell s House. This former home of the Lord Protector of England is his only surviving residence other than Hampton Court. The House, which also serves as the City s Tourist Information Centre, provides a clear picture of how Cromwell and his family would have lived during their ten years in Ely in the mid 17th Century. Audio tours bring this impressive building and its history back to life. An important figure in British history and often branded a villain, Oliver Cromwell s former home is well worth a visit come and see for yourself whether he really was a hero or villain. Hero or Villain? The former home of the Lord Protector of England A wonderful collection Ely s name is derived from the time when the City was surrounded by marsh 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 five pieces of stunning art. Part of the Eel Trail The self-guided Ely Tales is no less enchanting, providing an enjoyable way to explore the City s historic past. This tour follows the same route as the Eel Trail but tells the story of Ely through the eyes of the people who would have lived and worked in the City. Learn about characters from the past, vividly described at each of the twelve stops. For a more personal tour, you may prefer to book a place on one of the many fascinating guided walks organised by the Tourist Information Centre see page 24. Explore the City s historic past 5

6 Riverside and leisure activities Ely s riverside is a tranquil setting, a favoured spot enjoyed by visitors and locals alike. Down by the river you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere while enjoying afternoon tea, a browse in the antique and art galleries or taking a cruise. Ely has a long river frontage from which you can soak up the sights. Home to a host of aquatic birds including the Muscovy Duck and other wildlife, the Great Ouse benefits from some beautiful pathways, allowing you to follow its sturdy banks on foot and take in the tranquility of this ancient river. The riverside is also home to Jubilee Gardens, where a traditional bandstand hosts a variety of musical performances throughout the summer. History on Foot Beyond the City there are a number of delightful and historic walks, following the river or visiting some of the pretty surrounding villages. One such walk is The Bishops Way, a circular route which follows the medieval tracks that were used by the Bishops of Ely to their palace in Little Downham. Feel history and nature as one as you retrace the steps of the Bishops who once walked these same pathways, first described as early as On Two Wheels In such a characteristically flat landscape, there s no better way of sightseeing than on two wheels. There are a number of scenic cycle routes to choose from which can be matched to suit all age ranges and abilities. Explore the dramatic local landscape by following the National Cycling Network.

7 A variety of musical performances Muscovy Ducks Twenty Pence Garden Centre A Great Place to Relax and Unwind in the Garden Centre restaurant serving hot & cold meals throughout the day Cream...and for Green Fingers As a nation of garden lovers, what better way to spend an afternoon than to pop into one of the area s garden centres at either Wilburton or Fordham. There you can enjoy browsing, shopping and lunch all in the same place. day boat & canadian canoe hire, fishing, walks & refreshments all on offer at our peaceful riverside marina on the junction of the Rivers Great Ouse & Cam, just four miles south of Ely walk to us from ely Pope s Corner, Holt Fen, Little Thetford, Ely, Cambs cb6 3hr john@fishandduck.co.uk Traditional river launch makes 30 minute tours of the picturesque Ely waterfront LYNN UNION RIVER CRUISES Daily 30 minute trips of Elys historic Frequent departures between Adults 6 Children 4 restaurant, Fridays and Saturdays 18 7

8 ely visit Oliver Cromwells House Visit the former Lord Protector s family home. Experience what domestic life would have been like in the 17th Century in a variety of re-created period rooms as well an exhibition detailing the Civil War. Visit Mrs Cromwell s kitchen, try dressingup or playing with the toys of the time or venture into the Haunted Bedroom if you dare! Audio handsets bring the story of this impressive House to life. Guided tours and group visits welcome. Also Gift Shop and Tourist Information Centre. For further enquiries check out our website at or call Ely Museum is a bright, friendly local history museum. Displays include original prison cells, fossils to touch and Roman remains. Events and exhibitions are held all year round. Ely Museum is open: Mon-Sat, 10.30am-5pm, Sun, 1 pm-5pm (Easter-October) Mon & Wed-Sat, pm, Sun, 1pm-4pm (November-Easter) Admission costs: 3.50 for adults, 2.50 for concessions, accompanied children 5-16 years 1.00, under 5s free Find Ely Museum just 250m from Ely Cathedral The Old Gaol Market Street Ely Cambs CB7 4LS Tel: admin@elymuseum.org.uk Ted Coneys Family Portraits 49 Waterside, Ely, Cambs. CB7 4AU Open April - December Sundays (other times by appointment) Tours at 2pm and 3pm Groups welcome Booking Advisable Tel: tedconey@btinternet.com The Stained Glass Museum The South Triforium, Ely Cathedral, Ely, CB7 4DL A national collection of stained glass from the 13th century to the present day. Open all year round. T: Registered Charity No

9 Suggested Itinerary for a Day Visit to Ely Arrival and C offee Choose from one of our many traditional tearooms with beautiful architecture and stunning gardens or perhaps a more contemporary setting is to your liking. Ely Cathedral Ely s top tourist attraction and it is easy to see why. Look in awe and wander in your own time or take advantage of having a more informative experience by having a guided tour. Tours also include optional visits to the Octagon and West Towers where the spectacular view makes it well worth the climb! Stained Glass Museum Housed in the South Triforium of Ely Cathedral, this is the only museum dedicated to stained glass in the country. A guided tour is highly recommended as it unveils the story of this fascinating subject. Lunch Whatever your taste and budget, Ely has a host of different eateries. The midday break also gives you an opportunity to visit the many gift shops, craft shops, antique shops, art galleries and not forgetting a visit to our award winning markets (depending on the day of your visit). Oliver Cromwell s House Home to the Lord Protector, Cromwell lived in this house with his family for ten years. Experience domestic life in the 17th Century and venture into the Haunted Bedroom if you dare! Ely Museum Discover the story of Ely from prehistoric times to the twentieth century set in a former Goal. Guided tours will bring the rooms and artefacts to life. Time for a stroll Following the city s heritage public art eel trail is an excellent way of seeing the historical City at its best. This circular walk is self-guided by brass way markers set in the ground and takes you past the oldest parts of Ely with its stunning monastic buildings and beautiful waterside. Short Break Option Located close to Cambridge, Ely is the prefect base to explore the local area. The district is home to the July Racecourse at Newmarket, the home of horse racing. Located adjacent to the course is the National Stud where you can take tours to see former races horses and newly born foals. Wicken Fen owned and maintained by the National Trust, is the most ancient fenland reserve in the country. The Trust also manages Anglesey Abbey famous for its snowdrop walks in the winter and collection of dahlias in the summer. Please contact the Tourist Information Centre for more advice as to how best to plan your visit.

10 Out and About Dramatic scenery blanketed with the characteristic rich black soil, wide open skies and splendid sunsets make this an unspoilt and unique part of the world just waiting to be explored. Such a diverse range of activities enables every visitor to take back home some lasting memories. A fascinating insight into what medieval Cambridgeshire life was like A magnificent example of Jacobean architecture Denny Abbey still features its spectacular Norman interiors 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, 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 give a fascinating insight into what medieval Cambridgeshire life was like. English Heritage s Denny Abbey still features its spectacular Norman interiors. Over time the Abbey has been home to Benedictine monks, the Knights Templars and nuns of the Franciscan order, rather sadly named the Poor Clares. Learn how this 12th Century Abbey has evolved, with informative displays and an abundance of children s activities to keep everyone happy. Situated on the same site, The Farmland Museum depicts Cambridgeshire s rural history with archeological finds and interesting interactive displays, you can hear about the stories handed down through the generations. Visit the village shop, the stunning 17th Century stone barn and its workshops, where you will be fascinated to watch both a basket maker and a blacksmith at work. Nearby is Anglesey Abbey, home to a priceless art collection, including a highly acclaimed Canaletto, this National Trust property is also home to one of the Trust s largest collections of clocks. This magnificent example of Jacobean architecture is built on the site of a 12th Century Augustinian priory and is surrounded by 98 acres of stunning landscaped gardens and an arboretum with over 100 pieces of sculpture. 10

11 Prickwillow Engine Museum is the place to visit! Wide open skies and splendid sunsets Famous for its stunning winter garden, snowdrop walks in the winter and delightful dahlia collections in the summer, Anglesey Abbey and Lode Mill are well worth a visit. Wicken Fen, owned by the National Trust, is the ideal place to explore the fenland landscape as it once looked. This nature reserve, of national importance, is one of the few remaining fragments of undrained fenland, and home to a rare species of plants, insects and birds. A patchwork of different habitats has encouraged a vast range of wildlife making the reserve one of the most important wetlands in Europe. If it is engines that appeal to you, then Prickwillow Drainage Engine Museum is the place. Packed with a huge collection of historic engines, pumps and related memorabilia, this Museum reflects the exceptional engineering history of the area. The Museum tells the story of The Drainage of The Fens and if you can visit on a Run Day you can really begin to appreciate the challenges that faced the Fenlanders in their quest to develop this fertile corner of England. Many of the attractions around Ely run a variety of special events, tours and activities aimed at all ages and interests. Take a look at the website or contact Ely Tourist Information Centre to find out more.

12 Beyond Ely Steeped in history, Ely provides a perfect base from which to explore. You are within easy reach of an abundance of interesting places to visit from Cambridge or the Norfolk and Suffolk coasts. An entire week may not be long enough to exhaust the area, leaving you with an overwhelming desire to return. The peat-black Fens, reclaimed from their natural marsh state, are crisscrossed by rivers and drainage channels, and the glorious sunsets, wide views and open skies make this very rural part of Cambridgeshire breathtakingly unique. The history of the Fens has shaped the many things to see and do on a trip to the area. The drainage schemes have created more than 200 miles of beautiful waterways, perfect for boat trips and highquality fishing. The remaining wetland areas have become sites of international importance for their wildlife habitats and are ideal for a quiet walk or bird watching. The bustling Georgian towns of March and Wisbech are well worth a visit including Peckover House in Wisbech, once the home of a Quaker banking family and now in the care of the National Trust. The City of Cambridge is world renowned, attracting visitors from around the globe. 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 today play host to an array of independent shops blended with all the high street brands. Enjoy some culture by taking in a theatre production, some live music or simply revel in the atmosphere of one of the many restaurants, cafés and bars the City has to offer. Guided Walking Tours can be arranged by the Cambridge Tourist Information Centre. Taking around two hours you will be told of the City s history, explore the sites and enjoy some humorous anecdotes along the way. Take a punt along the River Cam, chauffeured or selfsteered, you can see the famous Backs and appreciate the serenity of this historic academic centre. Medieval meets modern in the mix of architecture and an array of individual shops, matched by all the high street names you can find in the Grand Arcade and the Grafton Centre. Breathtakingly unique 12

13 The Fitzwilliam Museum offers a vast collection of art, from masterpieces dating from the 14th Century to contemporary paintings, drawings and prints. You can also enjoy sculptures, impressive ancient armour, pottery and glass and even illuminated manuscripts. With culture at its heart, Cambridge is also home to a selection of unique and specialist museums. Stay on into the evening and see the City take on another view, when its theatres, bars, restaurants and night clubs come to life. Whatever time of year, and whatever time of day, Cambridge never fails to delight. Cambridge will experience the colour and spectacle of Le Tour de France as the city hosts the start of the third stage of the Grand Départ 2014 on Monday 7 July. Just over 10 miles from Ely is Newmarket, the capital of the country s Horse Racing Industry. Take a look at the National Stud, owned by the Jockey Club, a 500 acre site which is a showcase of the British Thoroughbred industry. Visitors can enjoy a behind-the scenes tour and watch the mares and their foals in the paddocks, while younger visitors in particular take great delight in seeing the miniature Shetland ponies. Anyone who loves horses will enjoy discovering the stories and Royal connections to the industry at The National Horseracing Museum. This Museum has all sorts to offer its visitors: from taking a ride on the horse simulator and realising the fitness and strength of a jockey, to taking one of the daily privileged tours of the gallops; you can also visit the racing yards and even taking a look at the horses swimming pool. Sutton Gault by Andy Russell Fitzwilliam Museum offers a vast collection of art Take a punt along the River Cam

14 Prickwillow Drainage Engine Museum, in its picturesque setting close to Ely on the River Lark, holds a unique collection of large working diesel engines that played a vital part in maintaining the drainage of the once uninhabitable fens nearby. Open Saturday to Tuesday to from April 18th to October 5th 2014 See and hear the old engines in action on event days at the Museum in Main Street, Prickwillow open to Find out more on , or visit THE ICE CREAM PARLOUR A family run business, serving Ely and the community for in Ely and also at the Waterfront. Trading most days right through the summer with a friendly greeting. All photographs tel: Open every day ex cept Christmas Day The Farmland Museum and Denny Abbey A fascinating place to visit for all ages. Celebrating Cambridgeshire farming and village life in a beautiful rural setting. Explore English Heritages 12th Century Abbey. Visit website for admission prices and events programme. Picnic & play area. Gift Shop. Tearooms open on weekends, bank holidays & childrens activity days. Hot drinks available from Museum Shop. Free Parking. OPEN DAILY BETWEEN: 1 April 2 November pm weekdays10.30am - 5pm weekends and bank holidays Farmland Museum, Ely Road, Waterbeach, Cambridge, CB25 9PQ Tel: Fax: info@farmlandmuseum.org.uk Reg. Charity No A Service Supported by East Cambridgeshire District Council ELY SHOPmobility East Cambridgeshire District Council Thursday - Friday - Saturday 10.30am - 1pm & 2pm - 4pm - Wheelchair and Power scooters available - A FREE Service - Based at Ely Museum - Phone to book For anyone with restricted mobility (minimum age 16) to use in Ely City Centre 14

15 Retail and Markets One of the great joys of being in Ely is having the time to concentrate on one of your favourite pursuits shopping! With nationally known chain stores, delightful specialist shops and award-winning markets, Ely is a temptation not to be resisted. A gentle stroll around the compact city centre, some window-shopping or some serious spending could be a feature of any visit to Ely. For those looking for something a little different, the city abounds with the sort of small, independent shops which you thought no longer existed. There are also many gift shops, craft shops, bookshops, antique shops and art galleries, notably the Haddenham Gallery just a few miles away. Market Days have been a feature of the city for hundreds of years and still create a real buzz. For those who love a bargain, Ely holds three different types of market, from the award-winning Ely s independent shops range from the unique to the luxurious Farmers Market on the second and fourth Saturday of every month to the regular Thursday General Market and Saturday Craft Market. Don t miss the special themed Flower, Food and Craft markets from March until November on the last Sunday of the month and Bank Holiday Weekends. There s a great selection of goods on offer, with special promotions and street entertainers which all add to the City Centre s vibrancy. There are also plenty of places to sit and relax and a number of pubs and pavement cafés for a drink and a snack all year round. Anyone with restricted mobility is welcome to make use of the wheelchairs and power scooters available free of charge under the Ely SHOPmobility scheme. For details, see the advert left.

16 Smoked Eel is a local delicacy around the City A warm welcome and fine cuisine Corkers crisps from our family grown potatoes in rich fenland soil Smoked Eel is a delicacy around the City and what better place to buy these, along with a host of other locally produced food, than at Ely s award-winning Farmers Market. Dishes such as eel stew and eel pie regularly feature on several of the City s restaurants menus. Don t miss Ely s Food Events... 7th 8th FEBRUARY ELYSIAN WINTER BEER FESTIVAL (CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE) 2nd 5th MAY ELY S EEL DAY AND FOOD FESTIVAL 18th OCTOBER ELY S APPLE FESTIVAL

17 Food and Drink Quaint teashops and pavement cafés You ll never go hungry in Ely! You ll find a range of food from around the world as well as more traditional style menus from restaurants boasting locally sourced produce. And where else will you be offered the delicacy of smoked eel paté or eel pie? The choice is delightfully varied. The new Poets House on St Mary s Street, gastropubs the Prince Albert and Royal Standard, and Ta Bouche all promise a warm welcome and fine cuisine. For lighter bites, Ely boasts many quaint teashops and pavement cafés, including Carringtons Café just off the Market Place. The Waterside area in particular has become a haven for food lovers with a wide variety of venues including The Cutter Inn and the award winning Peacocks Tea Rooms and the newly opened Grand Central American Grill. The choice isn t limited to the city. Head out into one of the nearby villages and you will find a host of attractive pubs and restaurants with extensive and unusual menus and the chance to relax in picturesque settings while you eat. The much acclaimed Anchor Inn at Sutton Gault is well worth a visit as are the Lazy Otter at Stretham, the Anchor at Little Downham and the Ship at Brandon Creek. Most have idyllic waterside locations with stunning fenland views. The Anchor Inn shares the accolade of being listed in the Good Food Guide and make a point of using locally sourced food. 17

18 The Lamb 2 Lynn Road, Ely CB7 4EJ Tel: Fax: Sitting proudly at the centre of Ely, just 150 yards from the Cathedral, everyone is welcome at The Lamb. Food is available all day including our much loved 2 meals for 9.99 offer, starting from 7am weekdays and 8am at weekends. and a full range of hot and cold drinks available throughout the day. lamb.ely@greeneking.co.uk Website: 18 The Ship Inn Brandon Creek Where the Great Ouse meets the Little Ouse A warm welcome awaits you at Brandon Creek, just off the A10 half on the Cambridgeshire/Norfolk border mid-way between Ely and Downham Market,. Mark and Keith invite you to share in their passion for locally sourced, freshly cooked, naturally gluten free food accompanied by up to 6 award winning Real Ales, in our relaxed waterside setting. Open from 12 noon to 11pm daily with food served Mon Fri 12-3pm and 6-9pm and throughout the day every weekend and daily during the summer months. Gluten Free Food as Standard As a diagnosed Coeliac, Keith is committed to ensuring as wide a menu range as practicable for all those allergic to Wheat & Barley Gluten. In close consultation with our experienced Norfolk born chef Carl Moore, we aim to offer meals that dont contain hidden gluten containing ingredients. However, please do mention your allergy when ordering, and in most cases we will offer non Gluten containing alternatives such as bread, pasta and biscuits from stock. ***Naturally as a pub we also have Gluten Free Beer available. The Ship Inn, Brandon Creek, Downham Market, Norfolk PO38 0PP. Tel Menus and further details at -

19 COME OVER TO OUR HOUSE Located in the heart of Ely s historic city centre, The Dining Room at Poets House invites you to enjoy a new culinary experience. Our Executive Chef has designed a menu that combines innovation and tradition culminating in iconic dishes executed to the highest standard. So whether you re out to impress a dinner date, enjoying Sunday lunch with family or just fancy the best afternoon tea in town, you ll enjoy the perfect combination of a warm welcome and exceptional service. CALL US ON OR VISIT 19

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21 Our menus are traditional rustic pub grub. All our food is freshly made on the premises with a good choice of fresh fish from the Norfolk coast and a pastry cabinet full of home made sweets. We stock 5 real ales on the hand pumps and stock a wide range of ciders from Westons, and local wine from Carters Vineyard. Open all day every day Locally sourced home cooked food Extensive menu Riverside views Families and children very welcome Cambridge Road, Stretham, Ely, Cambs CB6 3LU Tel: Fax: thelazyotter@btconnect.com web: Britains top tearoom:* for home-made cakes, delicious light lunches, over 70 varieties of tea and much more... Peacocks Tearoom 65 Waterside Ely by the river Great Ouse & next to Waterside Antiques *Awarded Top Tea Place 2008 by the Tea Guild Open to 5 Last orders at 4.30pm Closed Monday & Tuesday, but open Bank holidays No reservations 21

22 What s on You ll find a wealth of events across Ely and the surrounding area which embrace both the traditional and the quirky where else would you find the National Eel Throwing Competition (real eels are not used!) and the World Pea Shooting Championships! Events and celebrations run throughout the year in a variety of picturesque and versatile locations, with Christmas being a particular highlight in the year with our renowned Ely Choristers performing timeless carols. JANUARY 1st January 9th March SWAN FEEDS, WWT WELNEY WETLAND CENTRE Witness one of the nature's most amazing spectacles as thousands of ducks and swans migrate for the winter. SNOWDROP WALKS, ANGLESEY ABBEY, LODE The New Year brings a wonderful display of snowdrops all around the gardens. FEBRUARY 7th 8th February ELYSIAN WINTER BEER FESTIVAL, THE MALTINGS, ELY Sample a variety of local beer and cider. APRIL 20th April STEVENS MILL, BURWELL MUSEUM, BURWELL Opening weekend of Burwell Museum plus official opening of windmill following major restoration. MAY RIVERSIDE CONCERTS, JUBILEE GARDENS, ELY Listen to a variety of brass and jazz bands play every Sunday afternoon in the bandstand. 2nd 5th May ELY S EEL FESTIVAL WEEKEND, VARIOUS ELY LOCATIONS Celebration of Ely s eel traditions including National Eel Throwing Competition, Town Criers Event, Food Festival and many more activities. JUNE 21st June ETHELDREDA FAIR AND PROCESSION, PALACE GREEN, ELY Stalls, teas and entertainment. JULY 6th July AQUAFEST, RIVERSIDE, ELY Lots of river fun and entertainment th July WORLD PEA SHOOTING CHAMPIONSHIPS, WITCHAM, NR ELY Pea shooting competitions for all including side stalls and entertainment. 11th 13th July ELY FOLK FESTIVAL, ELY A bijou weekend of folk and roots music festival. AUGUST ELY S SUMMER OF MUSIC, JUBILEE GARDENS, ELY Variety of music performances on Saturday afternoons. 23rd 24th August ELY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY SHOW, PARADISE SPORTS CENTRE, ELY Variety of stalls, side shows and entertainment. 23rd 25th August CONTINENTAL MARKET, ELY Variety of sights, smells and tastes from around the continent. Witness one of nature's most amazing spectacles 22

23 SEPTEMBER HADDENHAM STEAM ENGINE RALLY, HADDENHAM Traditional steam and country fair. 12th 14th September NATIONAL HERITAGE WEEKEND, VARIOUS LOCATIONS A chance to experience different tours and enter buildings not normally open to the public. 27th September SOHAM PUMPKIN FAIR, SOHAM Various produce competitions and family entertainment. OCTOBER PRICKWILLOW PLOUGHING FESTIVAL AND CRAFT FAIR Display of vintage vehicles plus a variety of family entertainment. NOVEMBER ELY FIREWORK DISPLAY, ELY PARK One of the area s largest and best displays. 14th 15th November ELY CATHEDRAL CHRISTMAS GIFT AND FOOD FAYRE Craft Stalls and Entertainment. DECEMBER WINTER LIGHTS, ANGLESEY ABBEY, LODE See the Abbeys beautiful gardens in a whole new light, as they are lit up at night in magical and mysterious ways. ELY CATHEDRAL CAROL SERVICES, ELY CATHEDRAL For further information call or 18th October ELY S APPLE FESTIVAL Palace Green, Ely. Celebration of the British apple with lots of apple fun, games and entertainment. October and November HALLOWEEN ELY GHOST TOURS For further information call or visit Ely s festival weekend 23

24 Guided tours and Walks of Ely Ely Tourist Information Centre organises guided tours of Ely with highly qualified City and Blue Badge Guides. A walking guided tour is the best way to see Ely and learn a little about what makes this small city such a gem. Public walking tours depart from Ely Tourist Information Centre (at Oliver Cromwell s House), every Saturday and Sunday from July through to September at am as well as Bank Holiday Weekends. In late October through to early November we run our renowned Ghost Walks with a variety of ghost sightings guaranteed! Throughout the year we can also provide private walking tours for any number of people, tailor-made to suit your requirements, budget and even language in some cases. In addition, we can arrange a variety of tours to other key Ely attractions such as Ely Cathedral, Stained Glass Museum, Oliver Cromwell s House and Ely Museum as well as other attractions outside the City. We can arrange meeting space and refreshment venues as well. Call Ely Tourist Information Centre for more advice and assistance your one stop shop for group visits. Our most popular themed walks are: Historic City Centre Historic City Centre and Riverside Eel Trail Architecture and Monastic and those with costumed characters: Ely Tales Ghosts 24

25 Call in for your free leaflets Tourist information A warm welcome awaits you from our friendly and knowledgeable team, based in the historic setting of Oliver Cromwell s House. We can provide you with a wealth of information whether you are intending to stay for the day, a short break or even longer. Our well stocked Centre provides a variety of leaflets and publications covering the whole country so we can assist you on your forward journey as well. Call in and see how we can help you with: Accommodation booking service Local travel information Extensive range of leaflets and publications Box office service What s on guide Information on group visits Local interest books and maps Cycle routes and walks Gift Shop As well as an Information Centre and Visitor Attraction, Oliver Cromwell s House is home to its own delightful gift shop stocking a variety of souvenirs, local produce as well as unusual gifts. So if you re looking for a reminder of Ely or something different, call in and see our range. Function Room Our 17th Century Tithe Office is a beautiful oak-panelled room which makes the perfect setting for small meetings, gatherings and is ideal as a rest stop for your group. Please enquire for further hire details. Opening Hours Summer Hours: 1st April to 31st October 10am to 5pm, daily including Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays Winter Hours: 1st November to 31st March 11am to 4pm, Monday to Friday and Sundays 10am to 5pm Saturdays Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day. Ely Tourist Information Centre (located in Oliver Cromwell s House) 29 St Mary s Street Ely, Cambs CB7 4HF Tel: Fax: tic@eastcambs.gov.uk Variety of local souvenirs A range of gifts for all occasions A beautiful building