These days this tiny city has more to offer than the eels that reputedly gave it its name. Ely Cathedral soars majestically over the surrounding fens, and in the spring they still celebrate the Eel Festival with (toy) eel throwing. However, what we love most about modern Ely is that it’s so much nicer than its neighbour Cambridge, with its overblown property market, influx of London commuters and the out-of-town science parks that have squeezed much of the joy out of the city. Here, 15 minutes up the train line, house prices are about a third cheaper and people still make time for a chat.
Most of that chatting takes place in the lively market square, which is the heart of the town, with stalls