Ely Scene

Hello you 👋

Autumn’s edging in, but there’s loads to enjoy around the Fens this week. We’ve got free Heritage Open Day fun at Ely Cathedral, a rock ’n’ roll night with J.S. & The Lockerbillies in Little Downham, author Katherine Rundell at the Cathedral, Ely City under the lights on Tuesday, and more. Here’s what’s on from 11 September — 17 September.

🎟️ Events This Week

• 🌟 Heritage Open Day – Ely Cathedral

  Explore one of England’s great churches for free as Ely Cathedral opens its doors on Sunday 14 September, 12pm – 3pm. Wander the nave and chapels, then dip into free guided highlights tours running through the afternoon. It’s a welcoming way to discover the building’s epic story with friends or family. You don’t want to miss it.

• ⚽ Ely City FC vs Heacham – The Demcom Stadium
  Back the Robins at home on Tuesday 16 September, 7:45pm. Local football under the lights always delivers a buzz, and this league clash should be lively. Turnstiles are card-friendly, with £9 adults / £5 concessions and a warm clubhouse for pre-match chat. Wrap up and bring your voice, it helps!

• 🎸 Rockin’ Back to the 50/60s – Little Downham Village Hall

  Shake, rattle and roll with J.S. & The Lockerbillies serving 50s/60s rock ’n’ roll, rhythm ’n’ blues and rockabilly vibes. Doors 7pm on Saturday 13 September; tickets £8 adults and £5 under-14s. Expect upright bass slaps, twanging guitar and plenty of dance-floor energy. Dress up and make a night of it with friends

• 📚 Katherine Rundell - Ely Cathedral

  Meet acclaimed author Katherine Rundell at this special literary event on Tuesday 16 September at Ely Cathedral. Known for her captivating storytelling and award-winning works, Katherine will share insights into her writing process and latest projects. A must-attend event for book lovers and aspiring writers alike. Early bird tickets start at £8.

• 🧘 Pranayama & Meditation – The Yoga Studio, Little Downham

  Slow the pace and learn breathwork (pranayama) and Japa mantra meditation in a friendly, all-levels course. The new six-week term begins on Thursday 11 September, 7pm, with the full course £60 and limited spaces at the studio in Little Downham. Bring comfy layers and curiosity - a calm midweek reset close to home.

• ⛵ George Washington Cup – Ely Sailing Club (Roswell Pits)

  Watch dinghies race for club silverware on Thursday 11 September, 6pm - 8pm at Roswell Pits. It’s a photogenic after-work spectacle and a taster of Ely’s lively sailing scene. All are welcome to race but the trophy can only be won by a sailor who has not won a ESC racing trophy before. Spectating is free from the shore; bring a jacket and enjoy golden-hour views over the water.

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👋 Local Picks

• 🎨 Introduction to Printmaking – Marmalade Print Studio, Soham

  Try intaglio and relief in a friendly small-group workshop at a dedicated studio in Soham. On Saturday 13 September, 10am – 1pm, you’ll explore drypoint and linocut, ink and print on the presses, and leave with finished pieces. All materials and refreshments included; £60 per person. It’s welcoming, creative and confidence building.

• ⚙️ Stretham Old Engine – Open Day (Green End, Stretham)

  Step inside the restored 1831 steam-powered drainage engine on Sunday 14 September, 1pm – 5pm. Volunteers bring the site’s feats of Fen engineering to life. Entry is £5 adults, £1 children; card not accepted. It’s a rare survivor and a brilliant bite-size visit just south of Ely.

😊 Good News in 60 Seconds

• 🏆 Council Care Improvements Recognised
  Cambridgeshire County Council has been praised by Ofsted for significant improvements in supporting care leavers across the region. The report highlighted strengthened relationships between young people and their personal advisors, innovative bursary programs for those over 19, and better accommodation support. One care leaver described the life-changing support as truly transformational, showcasing the positive impact of dedicated community investment.

• 🏰 Care Home Resident Rekindles Childhood Joy

  Fred Day, a 91-year-old retired Methodist minister at Waterhouse Manor in Fordham, rediscovered his passion for building sandcastles thanks to caring staff who arranged a special visit to Anglesey Abbey. Watching professional sand sculptors at work, Fred spent the afternoon crafting turrets and moats with his daughter, declaring "There's a little boy inside of me and I'm not ready to let him go yet."

Make the most of everything our vibrant Ely community has to offer this week 🌟