Description
Ely Cathedral, with its unique 14th century octagonal lantern tower, is counted among the marvels of the medieval world.
Much of the cathedral is over 900 years old and it offers a rich architectural history, including the sumptuous 13th Century Quire and beautiful 14th Lady Chapel. Completed in 1349, the Lady Chapel is the largest of its kind in the UK. Visitors are always struck not only by its size but the extraordinary sense of light and vastness of this magnificent space.
The famous Octagon Tower, sometimes referred to as The Lantern, is a wonder of the medieval world and globally recognised as a masterpiece of engineering.
The Nave is the third longest in the UK, and the same length as Ely High Street. Its spectacular roof of painted panels depict The Jesse Tree, and move from Creation to Revelation as you walk from the West End up to the Crossing.
In recent years Ely has gained global recognition as a prominent film location including Elizabeth: The Golden Age, The Other Boleyn Girl, Macbeth, The King’s Speech and The Crown.
Easily accessible by train, visitors can enjoy a whole day in Ely with its attractive riverside, tea rooms, antique shops and many other attractions including Oliver Cromwell House.
Opening Hours
Monday – Saturday 10am – 4pm
As the Cathedral is a busy, working church occasionally it may have to close to visitors due to important services or events so please check the ‘Cathedral Closures’ pages on the website before you visit.
