Duchess 4 
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The historical city of Ely, home to a majestic Norman cathedral was originally founded as an abbey in the year 673. It was destroyed in 970 and began its reconstruction as a cathedral in 1083. In the 19th century, it was famously restored by the architect George Gilbert Scott.
After leaving Ely you cruise the unspoilt waters of the Little Ouse, Great Ouse, Old West, Cam and Lark rivers, stopping off along the way in Cambridge.
Whilst in Cambridge, be sure to visit its world famous University and discover the city’s cultural highlights. These include the historic King’s College Chapel, which began construction in the mid 15th century during the reign of Henry VI before being completed over 70 years later by King Henry VIII.
With a combination of perfect gothic architecture and stunning great windows, the chapel is one of the traditional symbols of Cambridge, along with King’s College Chapel.
Other highlights on this cruise include the historic market town of St. Ives, best known for its 15th century bridge, one of only four in England to also incorporate a chapel.
St Ives has always been a popular market town, so try to visit the popular Monday market which takes over the town centre. After strolling around this lovely town, you can visit the Oliver Cromwell statue in the town square. If you’d like to learn more about Cromwell, you can make the short journey to Huntingdon and visit the Cromwell museum.
From there, you’ll visit the medieval town of Mildenhall before cruising on to Buckden, famous for the Great Tower where Catherine of Aragon was once imprisoned.
Continuing on to Bedford, you’ll find a great mixture of old and new. From the medieval castle mound to ten-pin bowling, cinemas and a swimming pool, Bedford offers something for the entire family.
All Cambridgeshire Attractions
Moorings along the river bring you within walking distance of Cambridge’s famous sights. The colleges and their courtyards are dotted through the city, and the River Cam is alive with students trying to master a punt. A short visit gives you time for a stroll through the historic centre before heading back to your own, rather more reliable, boat.
The medieval bridge in St Ives is one of only a handful in England with a chapel built into it. Dating from the 1400s, it’s a striking feature of the town and a rare piece of medieval engineering you can still cruise beneath. A reminder that waterways have always been part of local life.
From the river, Ely’s cathedral rises above the fens like a beacon. Moor up and it’s only a short walk into this small but impressive city. The cathedral, known locally as “the Ship of the Fens” is worth the visit alone, and the surrounding streets have a quiet charm. A leisurely wander and a stop for coffee will easily fill a couple of hours, ideal just before or just after your narrowboat cruise in Cambrideshire.
Ely’s cathedral dominates the skyline for miles around and is one of the most impressive in England. Founded as an abbey in 673 and rebuilt as a cathedral in 1083, it has been carefully restored over the centuries. Highlights include the octagonal lantern tower and the pavement labyrinth designed by George Gilbert Scott. A great place to visit before or after your holiday from Ely.
St Ives sits on the River Great Ouse and is best known for its long-running markets. The Monday market takes over the town centre, while smaller ones run throughout the week. The town itself has riverside walks, a lovely town centre and, of course, the medieval bridge. You can moor easily in the town including overnight to make the most of the range of restaurants and pubs.
Cruising through the Fens offers a very different landscape – flat, open and full of wildlife. Marsh harriers, herons and swans are regular sights on the rivers and it’s a place for unhurried boating and photography rather than rushing ashore.
How to book
Book our Cambridge, Bedford and Return canal boat holiday by using our online Availability Search, or by calling Black Prince on 01527 575 115.
Other routes from this base