ELY’S 15 BEST HIKES FOR DOGS
If you are in need of a place to take the kids or the dog for a stroll in Ely, you should make a beeline towards Ely Country Park. It’s a great place to take the dog for a stroll and let the kids burn off some energy, thanks to the newly renovated play and picnic spaces near the parking lot.
Otherwise, you and Fido can take it easy on one of the park’s two circular paths.
The longer of the two trails here, the Kingfisher route allows you and Fido to take your time exploring the fen terrain, pausing to gaze over the placid waters of the lake and practise your bird-spotting abilities as you search for the elusive fish-eating birds that give the trail its name.
Only a picnic area is available, but if you walk just ten minutes along the riverbank, you’ll reach a Sainsbury’s with public restrooms. In any case, if you’re looking for a place to eat that welcomes dogs, you’ll find The Cutter Inn and Peacocks Tearoom just a short distance away. Getting to the railway station is also doable on foot, making this an ideal stroll for those in the neighbourhood.
3.2 kilometre walking distance
Effort Level: Low
The Fishermen’s Parking Lot.
Topography: even grassland with roads, footpaths, and gravel.
In this case, the answer is “yes,” as free parking is provided.
You can find us at: 34 Willow Walk, Ely, CB7 4AT
This small patch of green in the middle of Ely is a great place for dog owners and dog walkers to take their pets for some fresh air and exercise.
It’s the doggone perfect place to bring the family for a picnic and spend a nice afternoon playing catch or frisbee on the grass.
It’s hard to imagine, given the lack of any remaining evidence, that a castle previously stood in the park. Meanwhile, the well-known cathedral stands guard over Cherry Hill Park, and it can be seen from anywhere in the neighbourhood.
This tiny park’s proximity to the river and the city centre makes it convenient to access nearby amenities or to continue your stroll in either direction. Caffe Nero, along with the neighbouring Royal Standard and The Fountain, welcomes dogs. The closest places to stay are the dog-friendly Peacocks Tearoom and The Cutter Inn.
How Long a Walk Should Be: Depending on Your Mood
Effort Level: Low
Cherry Hill is our point of origin.
The ground is even and flat, consisting of grassland.
In this case, the answer is “yes,” as free parking is provided.
Postal Code and Address: 78 Broad Street, Ely, CB7 4BE
Just outside of Ely, in a rural setting perfect for local dog walks, is the quaint small community of Witchford. Together, you and Fido can have lengthy, peaceful strolls beneath the open sky along the outskirts of farmer’s fields.
In the summer, when the fields are in full flower, this region is a delight to stroll through. This region is a great representation of the level terrain that makes getting around Ely so simple, especially when venturing off the usual path.
Two separate routes have been plotted out for you to travel, or you can combine them into one big loop around the northern part of the hamlet. Both walks are great, but the longer one is better for walking a dog because it is almost totally in the open fields.
For the most part of the stroll, you won’t have to worry about cars, and well-behaved canines can run free. You should stop by The Village Inn, a family and pet-friendly establishment in the centre of Witchford, after your stroll.
Time Required to Complete the 8.9km Walk
Effort Level: Low
Getting Started: In the Town of Witchford
Paths, grassy, level, even ground.
In this case, the answer is “yes,” as free parking is provided.
The address is: Main Street, Witchford, Ely, CB6 2HQ
Connecting Oakham and Knettishall Heath for a total distance of 110 miles, the Hereward Way is a long-distance footpath that links the Viking Way and the Peddars Way. Completely walking it might be more than the average dog owner is up for in an afternoon, but there are reasonable stretches of the path that pass through Ely that are perfect for a stroll with Fido.
The Hereward Way can be travelled in any direction, although the section that heads east toward Thetford Forest Park is particularly beautiful. Leaving Ely behind, you and Fido will wander through classic English countryside and farmland as you follow the River Great Ouse.
You can walk all the way to Brandon if you have strong legs and a full day to spare. The Great Ouse may not be the only river you walk alongside, however, so your dog may get up wet by the time you return home. Take the train back to Ely from there.
Take the train back to Brandon and reverse your journey. If you stick to that sequence, you’ll wind up in Ely, where you’ll have more establishments and dining alternatives to choose from than in Brandon, where the walk began. Even though it’s a long trek, you can rest assured that the trail will be smooth and the ground level.
The total distance of your walk will be 37 kilometres.
Challenging in terms of difficulty
It all kicks off at either Ely or Brandon station.
Trails, paths, and ground that is uniformly flat and even.
Negative, there is no free parking.
Ely, CB7 4BS, Station Road
If you hadn’t guessed earlier, the Isle of Eels in the area inspired the naming of this town. The city was once situated on an island that could only be reached by boat before land was reclaimed from the fens. In addition to providing a plentiful food source for the residents, the profusion of eels in the area’s waters also gave rise to the name of the city.
This short loop is a great place for a morning walk with Fido because it passes through several of Ely’s most well-known landmarks. You’ll start in the downtown area and work your way out to the riverfront, stopping at several attractions along the way to take in the sights. Among them are Oliver Cromwell’s House, the Ely Porta, and the majestic cathedral.
Several inventive allusions to the elusive fish can also be found if you keep your eyes open along the way. Most likely, your dog is uninterested in structures like manors, churches, and military equipment.
Even though you’ll be exploring dog-friendly areas like The Meadow, Ely Park, and Jubilee Gardens, where they can run around unrestrained and play fetch in the grassy open spaces, this stroll is still fantastic for your pet.
Between the trail’s beginning and end, right next to the cathedral, is the dog-friendly watering hole known as The Minster Tavern.
the length of a 1.8-kilometer Stroll Effort Low Cromwell’s House is where we start off.
paths that are flat and straight.
In this instance, “yes,” as there is free parking available.
Location: Oliver Cromwell’s House, 29 St. Mary’s Street, Ely, CB7 4HF
To find out more: a trip to England
This hike takes its name from the paths that were originally used by the Bishops of Ely on their way to the Downham Palace. Taking Fido on this walk will put you on a path that has been used continuously since the Middle Ages.
You’ll be traversing flat fenland, as you will be on many of the hikes in and around Ely. It’s a gorgeous area to hike through, and on a clear day, you’ll get to do so against a brilliant blue sky. These fens were drained centuries ago to make fertile farmland, but the hedgerows are still frequently soggy and may even have bullrushes growing in them. Due to this, after heavy rain or throughout the winter, the trails and fields can become quite muddy.
The remaining parts of the bishop’s palace can be spotted along this route, which begins in Ely and passes via Chettisham and Little Downham. The Minster, The Fountain, and The Cutter Inn are just a few of the many establishments in Ely where travellers and their canine companions are welcome. In contrast, the Little Downham Anchor is a charming place to “pup” in.
Approximately a 12.7 kilometre hike.
Effort Level: Low
Cromwell’s House is our first stop.
Trails with a flat, uneven surface.
In this case, the answer is “yes,” as free parking is provided.
Location: 29 St. Mary’s Street, Oliver Cromwell’s House, Ely, CB7 4HF
Walking about the city with your dog is the best way to learn about the local history and culture in Ely. Moreover, few hikes are as enjoyable as a stroll from bar to pub. At either end of your stroll, you can stop in at the quaint Cutter Inn on the riverbank for a drink and some food with your dog.
This hike is primarily urban, but it does venture into the woods off of Springhead Lane for a short while. You’ll be halfway done with your trek when you reach the cathedral and the cluster of three bars that surround it. Visit this paw-se to admire the architecture (and paw-haps a drink) or go on to Cromwell’s House.
The Cutter Inn is where your journey ends. This stroll is wonderful since not only does it provide a wonderful chance to see the city, but it is also quite convenient to get to using public transportation. It’s also easy to make your own custom day of exploring with your dog by combining this walk with several others among our favourites in Ely.
In addition, if you modify this route to avoid the track on Springhead Lane, strollers and wheelchairs can use this walk within the city.
Trip Distance: 5.2 kilometres
Effort Level: Low
The Cutter Inn, our first stop.
Paths on an even, level surface.
In this case, the answer is “yes,” as free parking is provided.
Postal code and address: 42 Annesdale, Ely, CB7 4BN
Beautiful Alder trees and dark-leaved willows thrive in the unique moist woodland environment of Fordham Wood. Rare plants as distinctive as the local topography can be found in this expansive nature reserve. The wood is relatively remote and out of the way, making it ideal for peaceful strolls.
Park along River Lane and enter the reserve via the pedestrian bridge to explore the wet forest via the boardwalks. Because of the sensitive ecosystem and the abundance of native species, we encourage you to bring your dog along on your adventures, but they must be leashed at all times.
When you’re in the lead, they won’t want to go splatting around in the murky water and dirt. Boardwalks will likely be slippery and there may be flooding if you decide to walk here after a heavy rain. Get some drinks at The Crown, a local watering hole, after your stroll.
Distance of a 1.5km Walk
Effort Level: Low
Getting Started in River Lane
Boards, level ground.
In this case, the answer is “yes,” as free parking is provided.
Postal Code: CB7 5PE Fordham, Ely
As a result of the removal of the railway from Cambridge, this region is now a beautiful natural preserve, making it ideal for a leisurely Sunday stroll with your furry friend. The white gates that once marked the level crossing have since been removed, yet still stand as a relic of the area’s forgotten past.
There are now woods, meadows, and a placid lake where you may sit and watch the birds. The woodlands and grasslands bloom in the spring and summer, while the trees dress in their fiery autumn garb. After a downpour, it can get quite muddy in the moist wooded areas of the woods.
Inquire ahead of time if dogs are permitted in the reserve at that time of year and if there are any off-leash zones. You can take advantage of the lakeside chairs for a nap or a picnic.
As the route takes you through the village, you’ll get to do some walking around the pedestrian-friendly area of Church Street, where parking is free. After your stroll, stop by the Rose and Crown, a local bar that welcomes four-legged friends.
Distance Covered by Foot: 4.45 Kilometers
Effort Level: Low
Church Street is the starting point.
Smooth, even trails with no hills or valleys.
In this case, the answer is “yes,” as free parking is provided.
Postal Code: PE28 3EQ Somersham (Huntingdon)
Mildenhall Woods, which are located inside Thetford Forest Park, may be reached from Ely in under half an hour. We noted that this section of the forest was one of our favourite places to take our dog for a walk in Suffolk because it is closer than the forest proper.
Since it is so close to Ely and is such a pleasant walking place, we couldn’t leave out this section of Bury St. Edmunds, even though it is technically part of that city. After your stroll, relax at one of the many nearby watering holes. Our top pick is the Walnut Tree, which welcomes four-legged friends.
Mildenhall Woods is a nice circular walk that is accessible to walkers of all ages because to the trail’s firm, uniform surface. Unfortunately, due to its continued status as a common unpaved woods trail, this is not a wheelchair-accessible route.
However, it is still wonderful for a leisurely stroll through beautiful forest with your furry buddy and the little ones in tow. Since Woodlarks and Nightjars live in Mildenhall, much of the town has been set aside as a protected Special Protection Area. Due to the ground-nesting habits of these endangered species, it is important to research whether or not certain sites are off-limits to dogs at the appropriate time of year.
Time Required for a 4.7km Stroll
Effort Level: Low
Brandon Road is the point of departure.
Paths through woods; level, uneven ground.
In this case, the answer is “yes,” as free parking is provided.
Place of Residence: Bury Saint Edmunds, IP28 6AH
A tiny nature reserve located west of Ely, Pingle Cutting is also known by its former name, Pingle Wood. Another stretch of the abandoned railroad that has been taken over by nature and is now a popular spot for dog walkers in Ely.
You can still make out the sharp banks that formerly bordered the path in this area of rich grassland that is surrounded by young woods. Visiting the region requires that your dog stay on a leash at all times, no matter how tempting it may be to let them off.
The nature preserve occasionally closes to the public in late summer to allow sheep access for grazing. Consequently, prior to making the trip, you should determine if walking around the property is permitted. Avoid doing so unless you’re out for a walk with your dog in the dead of winter or early spring.
The Cutting can be reached through a path off of Fenside Road. Keep in mind that the cutting is not a wheelchair-friendly route due to the presence of some very steep steps.
Distance Covered in Two Hours: 1 Kilometer
Level of Difficulty: Middle
Fenside Road is the point of departure.
Trails, grassland, woodland, flatness, unevenness, and steps all make to the terrain.
Allows for Free Parking, Certainly
Street and Postcode: Warboys, Huntingdon PE28 2UA
From the downtown area of Ely, a stroll along the banks of the Great Ouse is one of the most popular ways to spend time with Fido. This path will lead you from the base of the stunning cathedral to the water’s edge.
From the town, you’ll go downstream until you reach Roswell Pits, and then turn around and head back. As an alternative to driving, you can begin this journey at the train station and make it a day trip. There are many free parking lots in Ely if you decide to drive.
There’s a solid reason why strolls along the river in Ely are generally encouraged. It’s a lovely stroll, accompanied only by the babbling of the river. In addition, you and Fido can stop at any of a number of dog-friendly restaurants or boutiques along the way.
Both the Peacocks Tearoom and the Cutter Inn are conveniently located on the riverbank, so you can paw-se for a drink and some cake whenever you choose. If you want to take your dog for a lengthier walk in Ely, you can do so by taking this alternative route, or by combining the walk down the river with a stroll around the perimeter of Roswell Pits.
Distance Covered on Foot: 5.3 kilometres
Effort Level: Low
The Ely Cathedral serves as the initial location.
Paths on an even, level surface.
In this case, the answer is “yes,” as free parking is provided.
Mailing address: Chapter House, The College, Ely CB7 4DL
Explore the beautiful Wicken Fen by strolling along the boardwalk amid the reed beds. This preserve, which is owned by the National Trust and hence receives excellent care, also features a number of excellent facilities. The best part is that you may bring your dog along for the walk as long as they are leashed.
Due to the varied topography and five clearly maintained trails, this area is a favourite among Ely pet owners for dog-friendly outings. The boardwalk is the most well-known way to explore the reedbeds, and its wheelchair and stroller-friendly path means that visitors of all ages and abilities may take in the area’s natural beauty.
Your dog and you can spend a few hours strolling around the peaceful streams and wetland on one of the other pathways that range in length from 3.4 kilometres to 9.6 kilometres in the fen.
There is a cafe and information centre here; customers with dogs are welcome to bring them into the cafe while they wait for their food, but due to space constraints, they are asked to eat either outside or at the visitor centre. However, you need not worry; the kind staff will bring your order right to you.
Duration of a 1.2km Stroll
Effort Level: Low
The Visitor Center is the First Stop.
Wetland, boardwalk, level ground.
Negative, there is no free parking.
Lode Lane, Wicken, Ely, Cambridgeshire CB7 5XP is the location in question.
Exploring the fenland and farming beauty of the region is a cinch on a stroll around Mepal, only a few miles outside of Ely. The name’s origins are unclear, however it could have come from the Saxon word for “moron.”
Whether or not that’s the case, you won’t be downcast when exploring this gorgeous lowland area. On this walk, you may see freshwater seals and other water-loving insects, birds, and mammals.
It’s a pleasant stroll to go with your dog on a warm day, what with all the beautiful scenery you’ll see along the way, including lush meadows, peaceful country lanes, and a wide variety of waterways. This is a great walk to take your dog on without worrying about him getting too far ahead or behind you, as there are several ponds and streams along the way. A pleasant walk along the Mepal Way can begin at the lovely Three Pickerals pub near the river.
Distance Covered by Foot: 4.8 Kilometers
Effort Level: Low
The Three Pickerels is our point of departure.
Wetlands, meadows, pathways, the flat, the uneven, and the completely level all make up the terrain.
In this case, the answer is “yes,” as free parking is provided.
Please visit us at: The Three Pickerels, 19 Bridge Road, Mepal, CB6 2AR
Stow cum Quy is a beautiful old village within a short drive from Cambridge and a little further from Ely, but its name is a mouthful. This is a great place to go walking, as there is a network of local walking paths ranging in distance from two to six miles.
You can take your dog for a relaxing walk along the fens’ fringes, where he or she can run around leash-free. The neighbouring towns of Horningsea and Lode can be found along these paths. If you and Fido have some extra time, you may stop at Lode Mill and Anglesey Abbey for some additional hiking and some interesting local history.
A network of trails in and around Stow cum Quy makes it simple to plan out a walking route that’s appropriate for your level of fitness and the distance you’d like to cover. We recommend stopping at the White Swan in the village if you want to rest your feet and wet your whistle before or after your walk because dogs are allowed in the bar.
Distance Walkable: 3.2 km – 9.6 km
Effort Level: Low
Stow cum Quy is our starting point (Various)
Trails, meadows, and meadow paths are the terrain type.
In this case, the answer is “yes,” as free parking is provided.
Stow cum Quy, Cambridge CB25 9AB is the address.
