Hey there! Ely is one of those places that’s both charmingly historic and seriously obsessed with its food. Tiny cobblestone streets and the epic Ely Cathedral set the mood, but it’s all the little cafés, pubs, and markets that actually bring the place to life.
There’s something for everyone here, from classic British pies and roasts to Turkish meze, riverside brunch spots, and an ever-bustling market square. If you like walking and eating, this is your kind of city. And with just enough indie shops and sweet treats to keep things interesting, Ely makes eating (and exploring) super easy.
Here’s what you absolutely have to try while you’re here!
What to Eat in Ely
Traditional British Pie & Mash
Pubs in Ely love a good pie, often filled with steak, mushroom, or ham, and served with mash and gravy. The Royal Standard and lots of local pubs do their own versions — always hearty, super comforting, and feels authentically Ely.
Fresh Local Fish & Chips
You can find brilliant versions of this classic across Ely, especially at riverside spots. Crisp batter and chunky chips are the move. The riverside makes it better; try to sit outdoors if you can!
Afternoon Tea
This is a big thing in Ely, with tea rooms like Peacocks and The Almonry serving scones, little sandwiches, and lots of cake. Just add a river view or a garden, makes the whole thing more memorable.
British Sunday Roast
Think slow-roasted meats, Yorkshire pudding, crispy potatoes, and loads of gravy. Make sure you book ahead for popular spots — it gets busy, and for good reason.
Turkish Meze
The Turkish Restaurant & Meze Bar brings a Mediterranean vibe to the city’s food scene. Great for group meals or when you want something lighter but still packed with flavor.
Foodie Neighbourhoods in Ely
Ely City Centre
This is the heart of it all — you’ve got everything from budget bakeries to fine dining, coffeeshops, and the lively Ely Markets. Super walkable, with hidden gems on its little side streets.
Riverside
Great for casual brunches, riverside bars, and views of the boats floating by. There’s a path to walk off your meal, too. You’ll find spots like Peacocks Tearoom and the Riverside Bar & Kitchen.
Fore Hill
This hill leading from the station to the city centre is packed with fun eating spots and pubs — a nice stretch if you want to hop from café to café.
Market Square
This is where food festivals pop up, and where the best of the city’s street food shows up weekly. Always busy, always worth a wander.
Budget Restaurants in Ely
Arbuckles Ely
Super friendly spot with big American-leaning portions, burgers, and breakfasts. It gets busy, especially on weekends.
Great for groups, plenty of veggie and gluten-free options, and it’s open from breakfast till late.
The High Flyer
Classic British pub fare with excellent Sunday roasts, a lively bar, and a nice beer garden when the weather’s good.
This is also a budget-friendly spot to stay if you want to roll straight from dinner to bed.
The Royal Standard
An old-school pub that’s big on pies, cask ales, and welcoming locals.
Historic vibes in a building dating back to the 15th century, right in the centre.
Mid-Range Restaurants in Ely
The Old Fire Engine House
This place is packed with history and art, with a menu focusing on modern British made with local ingredients.
Lovely walled garden and a proper vibe — it’s perfect for a slower lunch or a quiet dinner.
The Almonry Kitchen
Set inside Ely Cathedral’s grounds. You’ll get homemade quiche, inventive salads, and a seriously atmospheric setting.
It’s good for a casual daytime meal — and the cakes are worth it alone.
Riverside Bar & Kitchen
Ledge for brunch, but you can also do a proper lunch or dinner here. Big windows look out on the river; it’s all about relaxing and taking it in.
Expect modern European with a local twist and lovely cocktails.
Ely Turkish Restaurant & Meze Bar
This family-run spot serves up proper Turkish meze, grills, and warm, welcoming service.
Great for sharing, veg options, and big groups — try the mixed grill or baklava for dessert!
Luxury Restaurants in Ely
Peacocks Tearoom
Award-winning spot that’s all about afternoon tea, homemade cakes, and tons of teas to pick from.
Brilliant river views, a garden, and it just looks lovely inside. Try the scones if you can!
The Almonry Restaurant & Tea Rooms
Set within Ely Cathedral, this is one for special occasions. You’ll get great service, elegant British plates, and a view of the cathedral lawns.
Go for an early evening dinner for the best atmosphere; the history feels built-in.
Fine Dining at Riverside Bar & Kitchen
In the evening this riverside spot gets fancy, with a swish menu focused on high-end plating and locally sourced meat, fish, and veg.
Cocktails and desserts here are a treat, and the setting is classic Ely.
Best Coffee Shops in Ely
Apex Coffee House
Locals rave about the smooth flat whites and sweet pastries. It’s right in town and super chill for a morning pick-me-up.
Peacocks Tearoom & Fine B&B
If you want coffee somewhere full of character, this is the place. Get a dessert or something from their breakfast menu while you’re at it.
Markets in Ely
Ely Markets
This is the foodie heartbeat of Ely. Regular markets every Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, plus the twice-monthly farmers’ market.
You’ll find local cheeses, bakes, pastries, hot street food, and loads more. Come hungry and take your time wandering.
Budget Accommodation in Ely
Travelodge Ely
It’s basic but clean and does the job if you just need a place to crash. Close to everything and surprisingly good value for Ely.
Premier Inn Ely
Another wallet-friendly option with all the usual comforts, free parking, and friendly staff.
Rays B&B
Budget bed and breakfast just outside the centre. Homely, clean, and known for a good brekkie.
Riverside Inn
It’s a little bit above budget, but you get river views and super easy access to walks and food spots.
Mid-Range Accommodation in Ely
The Old Hall Ely
Country house feel with gardens and a very peaceful vibe. Short walk or quick drive to centre; breakfast is a big hit.
The Nyton Guesthouse
Cosy, with its own garden, and close to the main sights. Breakfast is included and staff get lots of praise for being welcoming.
The Rose & Crown
Historic coaching inn with modern rooms and a nice restaurant/bar at the base level, right in the centre.
Hotel Barge Waternimf
If you want something quirky, this is a floating hotel on the river, with comfy rooms and a really unique experience.
The Poets House
Townhouse boutique vibes and just a few steps from Ely Cathedral. Swish bar and good service, too.
Luxury Accommodation in Ely
The Old Hall Ely
A country house hotel with great views, swish rooms, and manicured grounds. Big for weddings and fancy weekends.
Peacocks Tearoom & Fine B&B
This bed and breakfast is right by the river. Elegant, quirky, and with next level breakfasts. Feels like a treat.
Poets House Hotel
Boutique luxury meets gorgeous cathedral views. Suites and cocktail bar are top notch.
Lamb Hotel
Historic, elegant, and super central — great breakfast and charming rooms with all the character.
The Red Lion, Stretham
A touch outside Ely, but luxury, boutique rooms and a top-rated restaurant make it worth a look.
