Hotels in Ely

Ely: Where Majestic Cathedrals Meet Serene Nature

Discover the hidden gem of Ely, England, a charming city steeped in history and natural beauty. Dominated by the stunning Ely Cathedral, often referred to as the Ship of the Fens, this architectural marvel invites exploration with its intricate stained glass and serene grounds. Wander through the Ely Museum to uncover the city’s rich past, or stroll along the picturesque riverside, where the tranquility of the Great Ouse enhances the experience. Nature enthusiasts will delight in the nearby wetlands, perfect for birdwatching. With its blend of culture, heritage, and scenic landscapes, Ely is an enchanting destination for all.

Discover great hotels near Ely

Ely offers a range of hotels from cosy B&Bs to refined city stays. The town’s accommodations provide charming, comfortable options, ideal for exploring historic sites and local culture. Visitors can enjoy a blend of modern amenities and traditional British hospitality in this picturesque English town. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers near Ely:

1. The Brambles B&BOpens in a new window: This 3.0-star property delights leisure travellers with an inviting Bed and Breakfast setting and a guest rating of 8.8. Enjoy the charm of curated experiences such as nearby fishing, horse riding, birdwatching and bicycling. The hotel offers a comforting dining experience with a breakfast option that perfectly complements its high-quality, inviting ambience. Trend-aware guests will appreciate the emphasis on smooth, high-quality journeys that provide a boutique and distinctive stay.
2. The Golden BoarOpens in a new window: This 3.5-star inn captivates leisure travellers with its engaging mix of dining options including a bar, restaurant and complimentary breakfast, alongside multiple television entertainment setups. The hotel's stylish setting and express check-in service create a seamless experience. Its entertaining ambience and refined architectural design offer a luxurious escape that ensures comfort and exclusivity for every guest.
3. The Old School House RoomsOpens in a new window: This 3.5-star hotel impresses leisure travellers with a stellar guest rating of 9.8 and a Bed and Breakfast experience filled with modern amenities such as digital and flatscreen televisions. The property exudes a warm, welcoming atmosphere with curated experiences, a spotless environment and delightful culinary offerings cooked to order. The refined setting, complete with express check-in and thoughtful design, guarantees a luxurious and memorable stay.

Where to stay near Ely

In Newmarket, Mildenhall, Lakenheath, you'll find friendly people, excellent dining and bars, and rich cultural experiences. Newmarket offers luxury and budget options with horseracing and museums; Mildenhall blends business with historical charm and delightful gardens; Lakenheath is more serene. Newmarket is best for first-time visitors.

1. NewmarketOpens in a new window: If you’re looking for a lively spot with a dash of elegance, Newmarket is a fantastic choice. Known as the birthplace of horse racing, this charming town offers a unique blend of friendly locals, delightful dining options, and a vibrant bar scene. You can explore the historic Ely Cathedral and the stunning Ickworth House, both nearby. For a taste of adventure, Go Ape Thetford is a short drive away, perfect for a day out in nature. Whether you're in for a luxury escape or a budget-friendly getaway, Newmarket caters to all tastes, making it a great base for your Ely adventure.
2. MildenhallOpens in a new window: Mildenhall is a quaint town that perfectly balances history and natural beauty, making it an ideal place to stay. With friendly locals and a variety of dining options, you'll feel right at home. Explore the Mildenhall and District Museum to dive into local history, or take a stroll along the scenic riverbanks. For a day of excitement, check out the Adrian Flux Arena or the nearby Snetterton Race Circuit. Mildenhall offers a relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for families or anyone looking to unwind after a day of exploring.
3. LakenheathOpens in a new window: Lakenheath is a peaceful village that’s perfect for travellers seeking a tranquil getaway. With beautiful gardens and a strong sense of community, it’s a lovely spot to relax. Although smaller than its neighbours, it has its charm, with local coffee shops and friendly faces. You can take leisurely walks in the surrounding countryside and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Lakenheath’s close-knit environment makes it a lovely stop for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle while still being within reach of Ely and its attractions.

Things to do in Ely

Ely offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical charm, with serene lakes and lush parks perfect for leisurely strolls or birdwatching. Explore the scenic waterways by boat, or take a hike through the surrounding woodlands. With its impressive cathedral and fascinating museums, Ely is a little gem just waiting to be discovered.

• River CamOpens in a new window – Take a leisurely stroll along the River Cam, where scenic views and natural beauty await. Enjoy the peaceful ambience as you watch boats glide across the water, making it a lovely spot for a relaxing afternoon.
• Go Ape ThetfordOpens in a new window – Get your adrenaline pumping at Go Ape Thetford, where you can tackle thrilling zip lines and challenging ropes courses. This outdoor adventure is perfect for those seeking excitement and a unique way to experience the beauty of the forest.
• Mill RoadOpens in a new window – Explore Mill Road, a vibrant street lined with an array of shops, eateries, and local businesses. It’s a fantastic place to grab a bite to eat or find a unique souvenir to remember your trip.
• Abbey StadiumOpens in a new window – Visit the historic Abbey Stadium, home to local sports events. Whether you’re catching a match or simply soaking up the atmosphere, this venue provides a glimpse into the sporting culture of Ely.
• WWT Welney Wetland CentreOpens in a new window – Discover the tranquillity of nature at the WWT Welney Wetland Centre. This reserve offers stunning views of the wetlands and is a great spot for birdwatching, allowing you to connect with the local wildlife.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Ely

1. Book for the cheapest times: Ely's most affordable period is from January to March, when hotels offer lower prices, making it a great value-for-money destination for those travelling on a budget. For a comprehensive exploration of its landmarks, history and culture—including its cathedral, museums, friendly people, historical tours, nature, monuments and opportunities for birdwatching—a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is ideal.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals in Ely, start by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window and Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find attractive discounts on hotels as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. Additionally, utilise Smart Shopping within the app to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're informed if rooms become available or prices drop, making it easier to book your ideal last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may vary due to factors such as a hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your dates could help you save on your stay in an Ely hotel. For those seeking unique accommodations, boutique hotels may provide a more personalised experience and potentially better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your selected dates is above or below the average. If it appears to be on the higher side, we might suggest alternative dates that could offer a more favourable rate.
4. Consider your location: Opting for accommodation near major attractions or city centres may provide convenience, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more budget-friendly options, you might consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, allowing you to strike a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you wish to explore. Additionally, independent hotels situated a bit farther out usually tend to be more affordable and can offer a more authentic experience.

Best time to go to Ely

Ely experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 39.4°F (4.1°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 63.0°F (17.2°C). August is usually the wettest month. April, July, and September are the peak travel months in Ely, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by no to light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.