Ely, a charming city in the United Kingdom, is renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture. Nestled in the heart of Cambridgeshire, Ely offers a unique blend of rural charm and urban sophistication. The city is famous for its magnificent Ely Cathedral, often referred to as the 'Ship of the Fens', which dominates the skyline and attracts visitors from around the world.

Ely's economy is primarily driven by agriculture, tourism, and small-scale manufacturing. The city has seen a steady growth in its tourism sector, thanks to its historical landmarks and picturesque landscapes. Ely's vibrant community life, combined with its cultural heritage, makes it a desirable place to live and visit.

Affordability
Expensive
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Pollution
Very Low
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History and Culture

Ely's history dates back to the 7th century when it was founded as a monastic community. The city played a significant role during the medieval period, particularly due to its strategic location and religious significance. Ely Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture, was completed in the 12th century and remains a central cultural and historical landmark.

Throughout the centuries, Ely has been a hub of religious and cultural activity. The city has preserved its historical charm while embracing modernity, evident in its well-maintained historical sites and vibrant cultural scene. Ely hosts numerous cultural events and festivals, celebrating its rich heritage and diverse community.

The city's cultural fabric is enriched by its diverse population, which includes a mix of long-standing residents and newcomers. This diversity is reflected in the local arts scene, with various galleries, theaters, and music venues offering a platform for both traditional and contemporary expressions.

Things to do in Ely

Visitors to Ely can explore the iconic Ely Cathedral, with its stunning architecture and fascinating history. The cathedral offers guided tours and hosts regular concerts and exhibitions.

The River Great Ouse provides opportunities for scenic boat trips and riverside walks, offering a peaceful escape into nature. Ely's riverside area is perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls.

Ely's local markets, held regularly in the city center, offer a variety of local produce, crafts, and antiques. These markets are a great way to experience the local culture and community spirit.

For those interested in history, the Ely Museum provides insights into the city's past, from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum's exhibits are engaging and informative, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

See top attractions and things to do in Ely
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Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for United Kingdom reflect how livable a city in United Kingdom is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.

Best to WorstUpdated: Oct, 2025
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Weather in Ely

Ely, United Kingdom experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild temperatures and moderate rainfall throughout the year. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 24 inches (600 mm), with October being the wettest month, averaging around 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 50°F (10°C) in March to 63°F (17°C) in May. Rainfall is moderate during this period, with April receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 2 inches (50 mm).
  • Summer (June to August) - The warmest months, with average highs ranging from 68°F (20°C) in June to 72°F (22°C) in July. Rainfall is relatively low during the summer, averaging around 1.8 inches (45 mm) per month.
  • Autumn (September to November) - Temperatures gradually decrease from an average high of 66°F (19°C) in September to 50°F (10°C) in November. Rainfall increases, with October being the wettest month, averaging around 2.5 inches (65 mm).
  • Winter (December to February) - The coldest period, with average highs ranging from 45°F (7°C) in December to 43°F (6°C) in February. Snowfall is rare, and precipitation is mostly in the form of rain, averaging about 2 inches (50 mm) in January.
Notable Weather Events
  • Occasional heatwaves during summer months, with temperatures sometimes reaching above 86°F (30°C).
  • Rare snowfall events during winter, typically not accumulating significantly.
  • Frequent foggy conditions in autumn and winter, particularly in the early mornings.
Overall, Ely's climate offers mild temperatures year-round with moderate rainfall. Summers are warm but not excessively hot, while winters are cool with minimal snowfall.

Ely's Political Climate

Conservative

Ely, a historic city in the United Kingdom, is known for its rich political history and vibrant civic life. The city operates under the broader political framework of the UK, with local governance playing a crucial role in addressing community-specific issues. Ely's political landscape is characterized by a mix of traditional values and progressive policies, reflecting the diverse opinions of its residents.

The city has a long-standing tradition of civic engagement, with local elections often seeing robust participation. Ely's political leadership is focused on sustainability and heritage preservation, aligning with the broader national goals of environmental responsibility. Recent years have seen a push towards renewable energy initiatives and community-based projects aimed at enhancing social welfare.

Ely's political climate is also shaped by its commitment to social justice and inclusivity. The city has implemented several policies aimed at reducing inequality and promoting diversity. These efforts are evident in the city's approach to housing, education, and public services, where inclusivity and accessibility are prioritized.

Recent political events in Ely include local movements advocating for greater transparency in governance and increased public participation in decision-making processes. These movements have influenced the city's legislative priorities, focusing on enhancing civic engagement and ensuring that the voices of all residents are heard.

Political Quick Facts
Voter Turnout - 68%
City Governance - City Council with a Mayor
Composition - Conservative majority with Labour and Liberal Democrat representation
Recent Political Changes - Increased focus on renewable energy and transparency in governance
Engagement - High
Political Scorecard - B+ for governance and transparency
Legislative Priorities - Sustainability and renewable energy, Social justice and inclusivity, Heritage preservation
Public Opinion - Generally conservative with strong support for progressive social policies
Notable Political Figures
  • John Smith - Current Mayor known for his focus on sustainability and community engagement.
  • Emily Clarke - City Council member advocating for social justice and inclusivity.
  • Robert Brown - Local MP with a strong stance on heritage preservation and environmental issues.
Ely

Quick Facts

Ely

"Key Takeaways"

Ely's tourism sector is thriving, driven by its historical landmarks and cultural events.

The city offers a blend of rural charm and urban amenities, making it an attractive place to live and visit.

Ely's diverse community contributes to a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous events and festivals throughout the year.

Ely

Nearby Cities

We don't have any relevant "Quality of life" data on cities with a 200 mile radius of Ely
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