Ely Scene

Hello you 👋

Crisp September mornings are rolling in across the Fens, yet there’s no shortage of activities to brighten your days. This week’s Ely Scene is packed with candlelit music, creative workshops, community markets and a free car boot sale. Read on for the best events and feel‑good stories from 18 September – 24 September.

🎟️ Events This Week

• 🕯️ The Music of Coldplay by Candlelight - Ely Cathedral

  On Friday 19 September at 7:30pm, Ely Cathedral’s nave fills with candlelight for an evening of Coldplay hits performed by a live band and vocalists. Expect emotional renditions of Viva La Vida and Fix You under flickering candles. Tickets are required and sell fast. It’s an unforgettable night in a stunning setting, bring friends to sing along.

• 👁️ Ely Iris Photography Pop-Up - Ely Food Station

  From 10am to 4pm on Saturday 20 September, The Touring Eye transforms Ely Food Station into a pop‑up studio capturing detailed photographs of your iris. Sessions last 20 minutes and cost £30 per eye with each image hand‑edited to reveal stunning colours and patterns. Reserve a slot for this unusual keepsake. it’s a fascinating gift and a conversation starter long after the event.

• 🎨 Print Your Own Lampshade Workshop - Ely Museum

  On Saturday 20 September, 10:30am – 4pm, unleash your inner designer with printmaker Lizzie Ault and lampshade maker Katherine Scantlebury. Learn lino printing to create your own fabric, enjoy lunch from Sneaky Veg Kitchen and assemble a bespoke lampshade. All materials are included for £105. This immersive day will leave you with a functional work of art and a head full of crafty ideas.

• 🍷 Wines From Around The World Tasting - Aldreth Village Hall
  On Saturday 20 September at 7:30pm head to Aldreth Village Hall for a relaxed wine tasting hosted by Adam from Corney & Barrow. Sample eight wines from around the globe, learn the stories behind each bottle and nibble on light bites. Tickets cost £20  and support the village hall. Gather friends for an evening of discovery and convivial chat in the heart of Aldreth.

• 🍂 Craft Workshop - St George’s Chuch Parish Room, Littleport

  At St George’s Church Parish Room on Saturday 20 September, 10am – 12pm, craft tutor Gill invites you to make a cosy windowsill decoration using seasonal foliage and rustic accessories. Tickets are £15 including materials and refreshments. It’s a relaxed, sociable session ideal for beginners. Bring your creativity and leave with a handmade piece to warm your home this autumn.

• 🧳 Destinations of the World Travel Show – Madingley Hall & Gardens, Cambridge

  On Sunday 21 September, 10:30am – 4pm, join Ponders Travel at Madingley Hall for a free travel show showcasing worldwide destinations. More than 25 travel experts will present bespoke tours, luxury cruises and adventurous itineraries, with exclusive booking offers and holiday inspiration. Under‑18s must attend with a guardian. Free entry and parking make it a must‑visit for wanderlust seekers.

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👋 Local Picks

• 🚗 Aldreth Village Car Boot Sale - School Lane, Aldreth

  Clear out your cupboards or hunt for bargains at Aldreth’s car boot sale on Sunday 21 September, 8am – 12pm. Pitches cost £5 (book via email), and funds go towards the village hall. For shoppers, entry is free, so come for vintage finds, homemade bakes and friendly chats. It’s a great way to recycle and support local projects, don’t forget cash and reusable bags.

• 🛍️ Isleham Market of Local Food and Crafts - The Beeches, Isleham

  Rise and shine on Saturday 20 September from 9am to 11:30am for the Isleham Market at The Beeches. Browse stalls filled with fresh produce, handmade crafts and artisanal treats from local growers and makers. Entry is free, and stallholders are still welcome to join. Bring your basket, chat with neighbours and enjoy the friendly village buzz at this community market.

• 💃 Belly Dancing Workshop - The Pole Shed, Littleport

  Unleash your inner dancer at The Pole Shed on Saturday 20 September at 12:30pm. This 60 minute belly dance workshop teaches hip drops, shimmies and belly rolls before combining them into a fun routine. Wear comfortable clothes; sarongs optional. The PAYG price is £18.75 with membership discounts. It’s a joyous, body positive experience, grab a friend and shimmy the afternoon away.

😊 Good News in 60 Seconds

• 🏆 King’s Ely Wins National Award
  The Talk Education Awards 2025 crowned King’s Ely the winner of its Pastoral Care and Wellbeing category on 11 September. Judges praised the school’s outstanding support for pupils’ mental health and positive environment, making the city proud of its commitment to kindness.

• 🍖 Poets House Ely Wins Favourite Roast Competition

  Poets House has been crowned winner of the Ely Standard's "Your Favourite Roast" competition, voted for by local readers. The award recognises the restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients, attention to detail, and working with trusted local suppliers to create memorable Sunday roast experiences.

• 💛 Octagon Tower Shines for Good Causes

  Ely Cathedral’s iconic Octagon Tower will be lit blue on 23 September for Leukodystrophy Awareness and gold on 28 September for Childhood Cancer Awareness month. These illuminations raise awareness and show solidarity with families affected by rare diseases and childhood cancers. Look up and share the love.

Dive into the fun and feel the Fenland magic all week long ✨