Ely

Ely is an attractive Cathedral City in the county of Cambridgeshire that was founded with the formation of a convent in 673 by Princess Etheldreda who had become a Christian and was the daughter of the Anglo-Saxon King Anna.  The abbey was later destroyed by Danish invaders in 870 and not rebuilt for over a hundred years. The name Ely is thought to mean ‘island’ due to the position in low-lying fens that were historically very marshy and rich in eels. In the 11th century, monks of the town are said to have used eels as currency to pay their taxes.

This historic city of Ely is has charm, historic sites, stunning natural scenery and all the attractions you could hope to find in a modern, thriving city. The surrounding Fen countryside offers tranquil walks, a wealth of flora and fauna and plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor sports and activities. Ely’s waterside area is a pleasure to spend time in, with boat trips, riverside walks, plenty of cafes and antique shops, the Babylon Art Gallery and music in Jubilee Gardens.