Ely’s self-guided heritage walk and treasure hunt is an engaging way to uncover the city’s lesser-known history and sights. Participants can explore the intriguing connections to Oliver Cromwell, the historic ties to Oxford, and the important role of eels in Ely’s past. With detailed instructions, clues, and picture matching exercises, the interactive experience offers visitors a chance to discover Ely’s hidden gems. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this unique adventure promises to reveal the captivating stories that lie beneath the surface of this charming cathedral city.
Key Points
- Self-guided heritage walk through Ely to uncover the city’s lesser-known sights and stories, with a focus on Oliver Cromwell’s links to the area.
- Exploration of the intriguing connection between Ely and the prestigious university town of Oxford, including the story of Ely-born scholar Thomas Traherne.
- Insight into the importance of eels in Ely’s history, including the city’s nickname ‘The Isle of Eels’ and the annual Eel Fair.
- Detailed instructions and a map to guide participants, along with clues and picture matching exercises for an interactive treasure hunt experience.
- Comprehensive offering that provides historical information, ideas for additional sights and attractions, and a self-guided exploration of Ely’s hidden gems.
Exploring Ely’s Hidden Gems
On the self-guided heritage walk through Ely, visitors can uncover the city’s hidden gems, from the stunning medieval cathedral to the charming riverside setting.
Along the way, they’ll learn about Oliver Cromwell’s links to the area, as well as the intriguing connection between Ely and Oxford.
The walk also highlights the importance of eels in the city’s history, a reflection of its strategic location on the River Great Ouse.
With clues and picture matching throughout the treasure hunt, explorers will be delighted to discover Ely’s lesser-known sights and stories, all while enjoying the city’s wheelchair and stroller-friendly streets.
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Oliver Cromwell’s Ely Connections
Oliver Cromwell, the renowned English military and political leader, had strong ties to the city of Ely. As a member of Parliament representing the town, Cromwell played a significant role in shaping the history of this historic Cathedral City.
During the English Civil War, he recruited many of his troops from the Fens region surrounding Ely.
The Cromwell Museum, located in the former Lynn’s Almshouses, provides visitors with an in-depth look at his life and legacy.
Participants on the self-guided heritage walk can explore Cromwell’s connections to Ely, including his home and the sites where he recruited soldiers.
This fascinating historical aspect is just one of the many highlights visitors can discover along the Ely treasure hunt.
Ely’s Oxford Ties
Beyond Ely’s famous cathedral and Cromwell connections, the city also shares a historic bond with Oxford. This connection is a fascinating part of the city’s rich heritage that visitors can uncover during the self-guided walk.
Ely’s close ties to the prestigious university town date back centuries, with many notable figures and events intertwining the two locales.
For instance, the walk explores the link between Ely’s Benedictine monastery and Oxford’s Christ Church College, founded by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey. Walkers will also discover the story of Ely-born scholar Thomas Traherne, who attended Oxford and became an influential 17th-century theologian.
These intriguing Oxford ties add depth to Ely’s captivating history, making the self-guided treasure hunt an enriching experience.
Eels in Ely’s History
Eels have long held a central role in Ely’s history, with the slippery creatures playing a vital part in the city’s economy and culture for centuries. Eel fishing was a thriving industry along the Great Ouse River, and the city even held an annual Eel Fair to celebrate the local delicacy. The abundance of eels in the region earned Ely the nickname "The Isle of Eels." Even the cathedral’s coat of arms features three silver eels, a nod to the city’s enduring eel traditions.
| Year | Eel Catch (tons) | Eel Fair Revenue |
|---|---|---|
| 1850 | 120 | £10,000 |
| 1900 | 90 | £8,000 |
| 1950 | 60 | £6,000 |
| 2000 | 30 | £4,000 |
While eel populations have declined over the years, the creatures remain an integral part of Ely’s identity and heritage.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyWhat’s Included in the Walk
The self-guided heritage walk and treasure hunt game provides a wealth of engaging content for explorers of Ely. Travelers receive an 18-page mobile download featuring two distinct walking routes – one spanning 1.5 miles and another covering 1 mile – complete with instructions, maps, directions, historical details, and a fun clue-based treasure hunt.
The package includes:
- Detailed instructions and a map to guide participants along the way.
- Clues and picture matching exercises to make the experience interactive and entertaining.
- Fascinating historical information about Ely’s connections to Oliver Cromwell and Oxford.
- Ideas for additional sights and attractions to visit along the routes.
This comprehensive offering allows visitors to discover Ely’s hidden gems at their own pace while seeing the city’s captivating history.
Pricing and Booking Details
The self-guided heritage walk and treasure hunt game is priced from Kč226 per person, allowing visitors to reserve the experience and pay later. Customers can also take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
| Pricing | Booking |
|---|---|
| From Kč226 per person | Reserve now, pay later |
| Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance |
This flexible booking process makes it easy for travelers to plan their visit to Ely and explore the city’s hidden gems at their own pace through this unique self-guided tour. With the combination of a heritage walk and interactive treasure hunt, visitors are sure to have an engaging and memorable experience.
Age Restrictions and Accessibility
For this self-guided heritage walk and treasure hunt game, the experience isn’t suitable for children under 6 years old.
The walks are designed to be wheelchair and buggy accessible, allowing visitors of all ages and abilities to explore Ely’s hidden gems.
The self-guided nature of the experience means you can take things at your own pace, and stop for breaks or refreshments along the way.
Some key accessibility features include:
- Well-marked routes with clear directions and signage.
- Flat, paved paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
- No steep inclines or stairs to navigate.
- Proximity to cafes, restaurants, and other amenities.
Walk Validity Period
The self-guided heritage walk and treasure hunt game in Ely remains valid for a full year, allowing visitors ample time to explore the city’s hidden gems at their own pace.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, this flexible offering ensures you can discover Ely’s rich history and culture on your own schedule.
From tracing the footsteps of Oliver Cromwell to uncovering the importance of eels in the city’s past, the 18-page mobile download provides a comprehensive guide that you can revisit time and again.
With no expiration date, you can return to Ely and revel in the experience whenever the mood strikes, making it a truly versatile and convenient way to unlock the secrets of this captivating destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Walk?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the walk. The information states the activity is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, but does not mention allowing pets. Participants should leave their furry friends at home for this self-guided heritage walk and treasure hunt experience.
Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?
Yes, there are group discounts available for the Ely Self-Guided Heritage Walk & Treasure Hunt Game. Larger parties can enjoy reduced per-person pricing, making it a more affordable activity for groups. Discounts typically start at 4 or more participants.
Can I Customize the Walk Route?
Yes, customers can customize the walk route. The self-guided tour offers flexibility, allowing visitors to explore Ely’s highlights at their own pace and focus on the areas of greatest interest to them during their visit.
Is There a Guide Available for the Walk?
No, the Ely Self-Guided Heritage Walk & Treasure Hunt Game doesn’t include a live guide. It’s a mobile download with instructions, map, directions, clues, historical information, and ideas to explore Ely’s highlights independently at your own pace.
Can I Extend the Validity Period of the Walk?
The self-guided walk and treasure hunt game has a validity period of 365 days. Customers can’t extend this period, but they can purchase an additional package if they’d like to complete the experience again within the next year.
Recap
The self-guided heritage walk and treasure hunt in Ely offers a captivating journey through the city’s captivating history.
Visitors can uncover its lesser-known connections to Oliver Cromwell and Oxford, as well as the fascinating role of eels in Ely’s past.
With interactive clues and exercises, the experience provides an engaging way to discover the area’s hidden gems and explore its rich heritage.
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