Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cambridge to Ely

Driving from Cambridge, England to Ely, England can be a scenic adventure. The route is approximately 15 miles long and takes less than 30 minutes. Although a relatively short drive, there are several unexpected places worth stopping to explore.

Halfway through the drive, you'll find the quaint town of Impington, CAM. It's a great place to stretch your legs and take a break from the drive. But Impington isn't the only town worth visiting on this route. Below are the top five places to stop on a drive from Cambridge to Ely.

1. Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve

Located just off the A1123, Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve is perfect for nature lovers. This beautiful site is one of the oldest nature reserves in the country and is home to over 9,000 species of wildlife. Take a walk on the boardwalk through the wetlands, and you'll see dragonflies, butterflies, and many other insects flying amongst the reeds. Be sure to keep an eye out for water voles, which can be seen swimming in the ditches.

Favorite food to eat at Wicken Fen: A picnic lunch on the grassy banks of the fen.

2. Anglesey Abbey

Built in the 1600s, Anglesey Abbey is a beautiful stone country house set in lush gardens. The house has been well-preserved and is now a popular attraction for visitors to come and explore. The gardens are also a highlight of the visit, with over 46 hectares of parkland and gardens to explore. Each season brings a different attraction, from the tulips in spring to the dahlias in late summer.

Favorite food to eat at Anglesey Abbey: Cream tea in the sunshine.

3. Stretham Old Engine

Located just off the A10, the Stretham Old Engine is a steam-powered pump house that was used to pump water from low-lying areas to prevent flooding. Built in 1831, the pump house is now a museum that tells the story of how this steam engine made a significant impact on the local community. Tour the museum and learn about the history of the area while admiring the impressive machinery on display.

Favorite food to eat at the Stretham Old Engine: A picnic lunch on the green lawn next to the pump house.

4. Ely Cathedral

One of the most iconic sights in Ely, the Ely Cathedral is a magnificent feat of architecture, dating back to the 11th century. The cathedral is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and is adorned with intricate carvings and stained glass windows. Take a stroll around the cathedral's impressive interior and marvel at the size of the building.

Favorite food to eat at Ely Cathedral: A cup of tea and a slice of cake in the cathedral's tearoom.

5. Oliver's Lodge Hotel

Located on the outskirts of Ely, Oliver's Lodge Hotel is the perfect place to spend the night after a busy day of exploring. The hotel is located in a quiet area and has a restaurant and bar on site, serving delicious food and drinks. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, making it an excellent place to rest your head after a long day of sightseeing.

Favorite food to eat at Oliver's Lodge Hotel: Dinner at the on-site restaurant with a glass of red wine.

Take the Trip!

Overall, taking a drive from Cambridge to Ely is a great way to explore some of the beautiful countryside in the area while also getting a taste of history. You'll pass through quaint towns and villages, see impressive architecture and learn about the history of the area. Take a break at the five locations listed above, each with their unique charm and beauty. So pack a picnic lunch and take the trip, you won't regret it.