Ely Cathedral
Ely Cathedral, nicknamed the 'Ship of the Fens' for how it dominates the flat surrounding landscape, is best known for its unique octagonal lantern tower, a 14th-century engineering feat built after the original central tower collapsed, unlike any other English cathedral roof. The nave and Lady Chapel add to a building with a genuinely unusual silhouette compared to most English cathedrals.
Guided tower tours (both the Octagon and the West Tower) climb up close to the timber and lead roofing structure and out onto external galleries for views over Ely and the Fens, and are worth the extra cost and effort for anyone reasonably mobile. The surrounding cathedral close and the small city of Ely itself, with its market and Oliver Cromwell's former house nearby, make for a pleasant few hours beyond the cathedral itself.
As an easy half-day trip from Cambridge by direct train, it's one of the better day-trip options from the city.
Ely Cathedral FAQs
About 16 miles, a 20-25 minute direct train ride, making it one of the easiest day trips from Cambridge.
Its unique octagonal lantern tower, built in the 14th century after the original tower collapsed, is unlike the roof structure of any other English cathedral.
Yes, the Octagon and West Tower tours are separately ticketed even with general admission, and they book up, especially in peak season.
No, there's a standard admission charge for visiting, though services are free to attend.
About an hour for the main interior; add 45-60 minutes for a tower tour, plus time to explore the surrounding city of Ely.
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