The best walks and hikes around Ely (E Cambs)

Hiking around Ely (E Cambs) primarily features the unique Fenland landscape. This means you'll find mostly flat, low-lying terrain with wide, open views and expansive skies. The River Great Ouse is a central feature, so many paths follow its banks. While generally flat, Ely itself stands on a slight elevation, offering commanding views of the surrounding Fens from spots like Cherry Hill Park. The trails are generally accessible, with a mix of riverside paths, nature reserve boardwalks, and historic city routes.

Komoot offers nearly 70 hiking routes around Ely (E Cambs). These include a variety of options, with over 40 easy trails, 25 moderate routes, and a couple of more challenging paths, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

Yes, Ely offers several family-friendly options. Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve, a significant wetland reserve, features an all-weather Boardwalk Trail that is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, allowing easy access to nature. Many of the riverside paths along the River Great Ouse are also relatively flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for families with pushchairs.

Many of the outdoor areas and paths around Ely are dog-friendly, especially public footpaths and riverside walks. However, specific nature reserves like Wicken Fen may have areas where dogs need to be kept on a lead or have restricted access to protect wildlife. Always check local signage or the specific reserve's guidelines before visiting. Generally, the open Fenland paths are great for walks with your canine companion.

The most prominent landmark is the magnificent Ely Cathedral, which dominates the skyline and is visible from many trails. The River Great Ouse itself is a key natural feature, offering picturesque riverside paths. Further afield, Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve is a must-see for its unique wetland ecosystem and diverse wildlife. Roswell Pits Nature Reserve also offers a haven for wildfowl and flora.

Yes, many of the trails around Ely are designed as loops, offering convenient circular walks. For example, the easy Ely Cathedral – Cherry Hill Park loop from Ely is a 3.1-mile route that takes you through historic areas and green spaces. Another option is the easy River Great Ouse – Interesting sculpture loop from Ely, which is about 2.7 miles long.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. Hikers often praise the unique Fenland scenery, the peaceful riverside paths along the River Great Ouse, and the stunning views of Ely Cathedral. The accessibility of the trails and the opportunity for wildlife spotting are also frequently highlighted.

Ely has several public car parks within the city center, often close to the cathedral and riverside areas, which serve as convenient starting points for many trails. For routes heading into nature reserves like Wicken Fen, dedicated parking facilities are usually available at the reserve entrances. It's advisable to check specific trailheads for the most convenient parking options.

Absolutely. Ely is intersected by long-distance paths such as the Fen Rivers Way and the Hereward Way. These trails offer opportunities for more extensive walks through the city and along the River Great Ouse, connecting Ely to other areas like Cambridge. For a moderate, longer loop, consider the Cherry Hill Park – River Great Ouse loop from Ely, which covers about 11.5 miles.

Ely's Fenland landscape offers unique beauty throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying wildflowers and abundant wildlife, especially in nature reserves like Wicken Fen. The relatively flat terrain means trails are generally accessible, though some paths can be muddy after heavy rain in autumn and winter. The expansive skies also make for dramatic sunsets, particularly in the cooler months.

Ely city center, being the starting point for many routes, offers numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can refuel before or after your hike. Many riverside walks will lead you close to establishments. For example, routes starting near the cathedral or along the River Great Ouse will have easy access to amenities. Some nature reserves may also have visitor centers with cafes.