TRAVEL GUIDE
A fixture of the local shopping scene , markets have been held in the market square since the 13th century
atmospheric, homely setting within a quaint Georgian house where you can expect favourites such as steak and kidney pie or apple crumble, with a locally sourced seasonal menu that changes daily. If you’re looking to break up your sightseeing with some refreshment, look no further than afternoon tea at Peacocks Tea Room. Situated in a picturesque Grade II listed, wisteria-clad cottage overlooking the waterfront, this is quintessentially British afternoon tea at its finest. Paired with an extensive range of homemade lunches, cakes and sweet treats, you can choose from (allegedly) the widest selection of tea in the world, with a brew from every single continent – excluding Antarctica, obviously. For a light lunch, tea and cake – or something more substantial – The Almonry is another fantastic choice – you’ll find the restaurant under the 13th-century vaulted ceilings of the cathedral’s undercroft! Aside from the mouth-watering menu, best of all, all proceeds from the restaurant go toward the cathedral’s upkeep. Boutique browsing and souvenir searching A fixture of the local shopping scene, markets have been held in the market square since the 13th century. To this day, they continue to draw the crowds: you’ll find fresh local produce on Thursday’s Charter Market; craft, food and vintage every Saturday and a traditional farmer’s market on the second and fourth Sunday of each month. There are also bank holiday
markets which are great for families, often with fairground rides, street food and a range of goods from plants to vintage. If collectibles and antiques are your passion, don’t miss Cloisters Antiques and the three-storey Riverside Antiques Centre, where a vast treasure trove of goods lies in wait. Meanwhile, bibliophiles will easily while away a whole afternoon in beautiful bookshop Topping and Company. The city’s shopping precinct boasts a great selection of craft and independent shops. If you are in search of something quirky – whether it’s gifts, homewares or accessories – then The Eel Catcher’s Daughter is a true high-street gem. Finally, just a short drive out of town on the beautifully landscaped Stuntney Estate, you will find a complex of local businesses swiftly becoming the go-to rural shopping destination. Ben’s Yard is an independent retail village channelling local entrepreneurial spirit and fostering a sense of community. Spanning beauty and fitness, homewares, fashion and gifts, you are also presented with quality restaurants, cafes, lovely walks and an adventure playground perfect for children. With an emphasis on wellness, why not book ahead for a lush facial or treatment at the Aesthetics Lounge? Or stop by to browse an artfully curated selection of homewares at Love Lane by Abi. Hosted by Abi herself, you can also join an interactive styling workshop before picking up a piece to take home with you. Coined by landowners Victoria and Alastair Morbey as a destination to visit, shop, work and relax, this burgeoning fixture of the local scene is the perfect place to round off any day trip to Ely.
WELL VERSED Poets House (top left) is a classy option if you want to stay the night
52 AUGUST 2024 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
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