Ely is a perfect one day or short break destination.
The first port of call for any visitor to Ely today will almost certainly be the Cathedral. This imposing structure towers across the fens for miles around. Dominating the skyline, it is one of England's most beautiful and largest Cathedrals. Known locally as the 'Ship of the Fens' it is famous for its unique Octagon tower, which when lit can be seen for tens of miles. The Cathedral is also home to the only national museum dedicated to Stained Glass. If it's history you're interested in then Ely Museum, housed in the city's old gaol, is an excellent place to start.
Ely's most famous historical resident of Ely was of course Oliver Cromwell. In 1636 he inherited a large estate from Sir Thomas Steward, his maternal uncle, who farmed about two miles outside Ely at Stuntney. He became to local tax collector, or 'Farmer of the Tithes', for the local parishes. It was up to Cromwell to ensure that all the local taxes - including money, wheat and straw - were delivered to the Dean of the Cathedral. He was permitted to keep any excess collected and soon became a man of property and quite considerable local status. The Cromwell family left sometime in 1647, but you can still visit their house, which now doubles as the local Tourist Information Centre.
Ely has a beautiful waterside area, which is an attraction within itself, where you can explore the many cafes and antique shops, visit the Babylon Art Gallery or listen to music in Jubilee Gardens.