From old favourite items to hidden gems not previously displayed, our galleries have been given a glorious facelift. Meander through our displays, marvelling at ancient craftsmanship, fantastic folk traditions and turbulent tales of riotous revolts.

Our galleries tell the stories of local people from the earliest prehistoric settlers to those of us who live here today. Surrounded by wide skies and flat, wet fens, the people of Ely and its environs have adapted their lives, their trades and their pastimes to make the most of the unusual landscape. Find out about eel fishing, fen skating, why the rivers are higher than the roads and why the soil is known as black gold.

Visitors may turn up to the museum without booking. You may arrive at any time from 10.30 am to 4.30 pm, however the first thirty minutes of the day are often busy and at certain times there may be a short wait for entry.

 

 

Ely Museum believes that no one should receive less favourable treatment while visiting, working or volunteering here, on the grounds of a protected characteristic. We are committed to providing an inclusive, accessible and welcoming environment for our diverse community.  We will not tolerate any form of bullying or harassment.

Opening hours
  • Tuesday to Saturday 10:30am - 5:00pm
  • Sunday 12:00pm - 5:00pm
  • Bank Holidays 10:30am - 5:00pm
Admissions
  • Adult £6.50
  • Child £2.50
  • Under 5s Free
  • Family £15.00
  • Art Pass & MA Members Free

Tickets provide entry for a year from purchase

Ely Museum

The Old Gaol, Market St, Ely CB7 4LS

Ely Museum

The Old Gaol
Market Street
Ely, Cambridgeshire
CB7 4LS

Ely Museum is located on the corner of Market Street and Lynn Road with the main entrance on Market Street.

The museum is a five-minute walk from Ely Market and from Ely Cathedral and a twenty-minute walk from the train station. The museum entrance is directly opposite the main bus stops in central Ely.

Contact us

Facilities

Toilets

There are four toilets in total, two on each floor. There is one accessible toilet on the ground floor. Each floor has a toilet with baby changing facilities.

Access

There is step free access from the road throughout Ely Museum. There is a fully enclosed lift to access the second floor.

For more information on accessibility and access please see our dedicated page.

Accessibility and Access

 

 

Photography

You are welcome to take photographs in the galleries for personal use. Please share your photos with us on social media @elymuseum #elymuseum

Animals

Please no animals (except assistance dogs)

Food and drink

Please no food or drink in the galleries, they can harm our collections.

Explorer kits

Explorer kits available to help children explore the museum.

Group Visits

We are delighted to welcome pre-booked group visits to Ely Museum.

For groups of more than 10 on a pre-booked visit, the admission price is £5.50.

Call 01353 666655 or email admin@elymuseum.org.uk to enquire about booking.

The Ely Passport

Ready to unlock the best of Ely in one unforgettable visit? We’ve made it easier than ever and all for £29.50.

Visit Ely has partnered with the city’s top four attractions to bring you the Ely Passport — your 48-hour ticket to history, beauty, and culture, all within walking distance in Ely’s charming city centre.

Explore these iconic sites at your own pace:

Oliver Cromwell’s House – Step into the story of one of England’s most fascinating historical figures.

Ely Cathedral – Marvel at this stunning architectural masterpiece.

The Stained Glass Museum – Discover inspiring stories in glass, light and colour.

Ely Museum – Uncover the city’s rich and diverse past.

Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or showing off Ely to visiting friends or family, the Ely Passport makes it simple and seamless to experience it all, with time left over to enjoy the city’s inviting cafés, boutique shops, and relaxing riverside views.

Available online and at any of the four attractions.

One ticket. Four unforgettable experiences. 48 hours to enjoy it all.

Ely’s hidden gems are now closer than ever — ready when you are.

Buy here at Visit Ely

What’s on display

Ely Museum tells the stories of the people and the landscape of Ely and its surrounding area from prehistory to the present day.

What’s On Display

Research Hub

Our research hub allows visitors to discover more about Ely Museum’s collection. Search our collection in store or find out more about the objects on display. Watch locally made history films and read local history books from our library.

Shop

Our museum shop stocks an exciting range of products ranging from educational local history books to children’s toys. We have carefully selected all products to highlight our collection and are perfect gifts for you to take home. All sales from the from the shop go to directly supporting the museum.