A historic city rising above the Fens, where a famous cathedral, peaceful riverside paths, and long-distance trails shape a rewarding walking base.
Ely, in Cambridgeshire, is a compact and characterful city well suited to walking holidays that combine heritage, waterways, and wide-open landscapes. Dominated by Ely Cathedral — often called the “Ship of the Fens” — the city sits directly on the Fen Rivers Way, a long-distance route linking Ely with Cambridge and King’s Lynn. From the historic streets around the cathedral to riverside paths along the Great Ouse, Ely offers an easy balance of cultural exploration and gentle walking.
Beyond the city centre, the surrounding fenland opens out into a slower style of outdoor adventures shaped by rivers, wetlands, and expansive skies. Waterside paths follow the Great Ouse through meadows and parks, while longer routes reach nature reserves such as Wicken Fen and the Ouse Washes. Flat terrain and quiet tracks also make it easy to explore nearby villages, including Little Thetford and Witchford, on foot or by bike.
With a good range of places to stay — including riverside inns, historic guesthouses, and small hotels — Ely works well for short breaks and longer self-guided trips. The flat landscape and traffic-free routes along the Fen Rivers Way and Lodes Way also make the area especially suitable for relaxed cycling holidays, linking Ely with surrounding fenland and waterways.
