Unwind, Relax and Enjoy
Take time out of the normal daily grind and escape to an area full of leisure opportunities. From walking, cycling to boating there is something for everybody.
The unique fenlands in the north and east of Cambridgeshire are a landscape characterised by vast flat areas of artificially-drained land, wide views and open skyscapes. Ideal for walks and cycle rides as the absence of hills results in glorious views and sunsets!
A stroll or a brisk walk ...
A great way to see Ely is to follow the city's heritage public art Eel trail. A walk that takes in the history and architecture of this cathedral city and will take you past five pieces of stunning art portraying the life cycle of an eel.
For those who want to stretch their legs further, there are a number of walks that either take you along the waterways or out to the pretty surrounding villages. Most visitors to the area are struck by the amazing sense of space and quiet. Walking around The Fens is a truly magical experience, with a chance to really slow the pace down and relax.
Suggested walks in the area:
- Ely Eel Heritage Trail
- The Bishop's Way
- The Cawdle Fen Walk
- The Hereward Way
- The Fen Rivers Way
- The Littleport Trail
- Quy Fen Walks
- Wicken Walks
Alternative walks in and around the area are also provided by the local Ely Society:
- Photographers Walk around Ely
- Lazy Sunday Trail
- Jubilee Garden Superspy for our younger adventurers (Riverside Ely)
The following publications are available from Ely Tourist Information Centre:
- Ordnance Survey Map no 226 Ely and Newmarket 1:25000 scale £7.99
- Ordnance Survey Map no 143 Ely and Wisbech 1:25000 scale £6.99
- Ordnance Survey Map no 154 Cambridge and Newmarket 1:25000 scale £6.99
- Cambridgeshire and the Fens Walks (Pathfinder guide no 51) includes 28 walks £11.99
- The Fen Rivers Way (route map and 4 circular routes), an exciting 17 mile walk following the rivers Cam and Great Ouse from Cambridge to Ely £2.00
On your bike ....
The area's distinctive flat landscape makes cycling an ideal option. Explore the open countryside following the National Cycling Network Route (nr 11) or try the Jockey's Trail which starts in nearby Newmarket and then heads north east to the Fen edge villages. Wonderful flat routes with no nasty hilly surprises, makes cycling in The Fens a great activity whatever your age or ability.
Suggested routes in the area:
The following publications are available from Ely Tourist Information Centre:
- Ordnance Survey Map no 226 Ely and Newmarket 1:25000 scale £7.99
- Ordnance Survey Map no 143 Ely and Wisbech 1:25000 scale £6.99
- Ordnance Survey Map no 154 Cambridge and Newmarket 1:25000 scale £6.99
- Cambridgeshire 'On Your Bike': 20 cycle routes (96 pages) £8.99
- Cambridgeshire Spokes and Saddles: Six rides near Ely £1.00
- Cambridge Green Belt Area Cycle Routes: 5 routes around Cambridge £2.75