Ely Country Park - Image 1
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Ely Country Park

4.6
·623 reviews·Ely, United Kingdom

A serene country park with riverside and woodland walks, a fantastic playground, and abundant nature.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays (school term)

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Ely Country Park - Image 1

Ely Country Park

Best Time

Weekdays (school term)

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene country park with riverside and woodland walks, a fantastic playground, and abundant nature.

4.6
(623 reviews)

"A beautiful place to visit! Great for dog walking and getting little people out for some exercise."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Park Smart

Park at Sainsbury's for easier access to multiple park entrances. :car:

🚶‍♀️ Trail Clarity

Look for notice boards and maps, though trail markers could be clearer. :hiking_boot:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

River Ouse Walks

River Ouse Walks

Along the River Ouse

Enjoy scenic strolls along the River Ouse, perfect for dog walkers and nature lovers.

Reddit
Woodland Trails

Woodland Trails

Woodland areas

Explore peaceful woodland paths, offering a tranquil escape and opportunities for birdwatching.

Instagram
Children's Play Area

Children's Play Area

Central play zone

A fantastic, well-maintained play area featuring a pirate ship, slides, and swings for kids.

Reddit
Sunset Views

Sunset Views

River Ouse

Experience breathtaking sunsets over the river, a truly magical sight.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Best Entry Points

While roadside parking is available, many visitors find it easier to park at Sainsbury's and walk to the park's numerous entrances. This is especially common during peak times. Reddit

Family Fun Focus

Ely Country Park boasts a large play area with a pirate ship, slides, swings, and a trampoline, making it ideal for families. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekdays (school term)
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Beautiful sunsets and warm air
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends (school holidays)
Why
Lively atmosphere, family fun
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@Ely Cattleman #fyp #country #western
@coalkuz
6.3K likes • 175.7K views

🚗 Park Smart

Park at Sainsbury's for easier access to multiple park entrances. Reddit :car:

🚶‍♀️ Trail Clarity

Look for notice boards and maps, though trail markers could be clearer. Reddit :hiking_boot:

Not all of the ones I’m wearing are linked, but check out @Ely Cattleman ! #fyp #country #pearlsnaps
@coalthemole
1.7K likes • 37.4K views
Went for a stroll around Ely Country Park this week and saw some exciting birds. Check out my trip here 😊 @visit_ely @spottedinely @somewhereinely @ely_cathedral @rspb_love_nature #birdwatching #birdspotters #twitchers #birdersofinstagram #birdwatch #birdlife #ely #elycity #cambridgeshire #visitengland #visitely #elycathedral
birdersjournal
37 likes • 753 views

🐶 Dog Friendly

A great spot for dog walking with plenty of space to roam. Reddit :dog:

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Enjoy picnics with available seating, some of it covered. Reddit :picnic_table:

A swan at sunset in Ely Country Park, Cambridgeshire. Walks in the warm summer evenings are beautiful 🥰. #sunset #river #swan #TheFens #Ely #tranquility #calmness
veronicainthefens
78 likes • 997 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Park Smart

Park at Sainsbury's for easier access to multiple park entrances. Reddit :car:

🚶‍♀️ Trail Clarity

Look for notice boards and maps, though trail markers could be clearer. Reddit :hiking_boot:

🐶 Dog Friendly

A great spot for dog walking with plenty of space to roam. Reddit :dog:

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Enjoy picnics with available seating, some of it covered. Reddit :picnic_table:

🐦 Birdwatching Gem

Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife, especially around the river. Instagram :bird:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(623 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Ely Country Park is a well-loved local spot offering pleasant walks along the river and through woodlands. Visitors appreciate the excellent children's play area and its suitability for dog walking. While generally peaceful, some suggest clearer trail markers would improve navigation.

"Standard country park with a couple of walks of varying length through woodland and along the river Ouse. Notice boards and maps available at the entrances but it would be useful to know which trail you are following, maybe a coloured disc or similar along the trail?. Good for dog walking and getting little people out for some exercise.
Free parking either roadside or at Fisherman's car park."

Iain Wooding

"Check out the bushes laden with Sloe Berries in Summer.
Very quiet in the week now that the kids are back in school but lovely pleasing area to walk with your dog or friends.
Nice picnic areas at the park with seating available and under cover."

Paradise Lost

"This is a beautiful place to visit! There is designated parking but it is easier to park at Sainsbury’s and walk over to the many entrances. This is typical for visitors of the park and you will see many people doing it during peak times. The play area is big with a ship being added to the selection recently. There’s long circular walks, trees and nice views over lakes. It’s a good place to host party’s. Especially as you can get food from Sainsbury’s"

Phil Hearing

What People Like

Great for dog walking
Fantastic play area
Scenic river walks

What People Dislike

Trail markers could be clearer

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can access Ely Country Park via roadside parking or by parking at Sainsbury's and walking over. Many visitors opt for the Sainsbury's parking for easier access to various entrances. Reddit

Yes, there is some roadside parking and a designated car park near the river. However, parking at Sainsbury's is a popular and convenient alternative for accessing the park. Reddit

While specific cycle paths aren't detailed, the park's smooth footpaths and open areas make it suitable for cycling, especially for families. Reddit

Information on direct public transport links is limited, but the park is within Ely city, which is served by bus and train services. From the city center, it's a walk or short taxi ride. Reddit

The park has notice boards and maps at entrances. For specific trails, look for markers, though some visitors suggest clearer trail identification would be beneficial. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ely Country Park is generally free to enter and explore. There are no admission fees mentioned by visitors. Reddit

The park is typically open from dawn till dusk, offering ample time for visits. Specific hours are not usually enforced as it's an open public space. Reddit

No, booking tickets is not required for Ely Country Park as it is a public park. Reddit

General park rules apply, such as keeping dogs under control and not littering. Specific restrictions are not commonly cited. Reddit

Yes, the park is noted as a good place to host parties, with picnic areas and space for gatherings. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walking, dog walking, birdwatching, picnicking, and children can play in the large play area. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! It features a large play area with a pirate ship, slides, swings, and a trampoline, making it very family-friendly. Reddit+1

Yes, there are two chemical toilets available, including disabled access facilities. Reddit

Yes, Ely Country Park is a popular spot for dog walking, with plenty of space for dogs to enjoy. Reddit

The park features smooth footpaths, making it wheelchair friendly for visitors to navigate. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture beautiful shots of the River Ouse, especially during sunset with swans. The woodland trails and the pirate ship playground also offer great photo ops. Instagram+1

Golden hour, particularly during sunset, provides stunning light over the river. Weekday mornings can offer quieter scenes for photography. Instagram

The River Ouse, the swans, the woodland areas, and the pirate ship playground are popular subjects for photographers. InstagramReddit+1

There are no specific regulations mentioned regarding drone usage. However, it's always advisable to check local bylaws and be mindful of other visitors. Instagram

Birdwatching is popular, so bring a telephoto lens for birds. Swans are also a common sight along the river. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ely Country Park is a fantastic choice for families. The expansive play area with its pirate ship, slides, and swings will keep children entertained for hours. Reddit+1 The park's smooth footpaths make it easy to navigate with strollers, and the availability of seating and picnic areas is a big plus for parents. Reddit Consider packing a picnic from Sainsbury's for an easy and enjoyable meal. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

This park is a dog walker's paradise! With its open spaces, woodland trails, and riverside paths, your furry friends will have plenty of room to explore and enjoy themselves. Reddit Remember to keep your dog under control and be mindful of other visitors. The park is generally quiet during weekdays, offering a more relaxed experience for you and your pet. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers & Birdwatchers

For those who enjoy a peaceful walk and observing nature, Ely Country Park offers lovely riverside and woodland trails. InstagramReddit Bring your binoculars as the park is a known spot for birdwatching, with various species to spot. Instagram The tranquil atmosphere, especially on weekdays, makes it ideal for a refreshing escape into nature. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails

Ely Country Park offers a network of walking trails catering to various preferences. You can choose from leisurely strolls along the River Ouse, perfect for a relaxing walk with your dog or friends. These paths provide pleasant views and a sense of tranquility. Reddit For those seeking a bit more immersion in nature, the woodland trails offer a different experience, winding through trees and providing opportunities for birdwatching. Instagram While notice boards and maps are available at the entrances, some visitors have noted that clearer trail markers would enhance the navigation experience. Reddit

These trails are generally well-maintained and suitable for a range of visitors. The park also features Roswell pits, which are incorporated into some of the marked walks, adding an interesting natural element to your exploration. Reddit The smooth footpaths ensure that much of the park is accessible, including for those using wheelchairs. Reddit

Family Adventures at the Playground

Ely Country Park is a haven for families, largely thanks to its impressive children's play area. This well-kept space is a major draw, featuring a variety of equipment designed to entertain kids of all ages. Highlights include a prominent pirate ship structure that children can climb on, slides, swings, and even a trampoline. Reddit+1

The play area is spacious and offers plenty of room for children to run around and expend energy. It's a perfect spot for a family day out or just a few hours of fun. The park also provides seating around the play area, allowing parents and guardians to relax while keeping an eye on the children. Reddit With nearby disabled and changing facilities, it aims to be inclusive for all families. Reddit

Wildlife and Nature Spotting

Nature enthusiasts will find Ely Country Park a rewarding destination. The park is known for its birdwatching opportunities, with various species inhabiting the woodlands and riverbanks. Instagram Visitors have reported seeing exciting birds during their strolls, making it a popular spot for twitchers and casual bird lovers alike. Instagram

Beyond birds, the River Ouse is home to swans, which are a common and beautiful sight, especially during the tranquil summer evenings. Instagram In late summer, the bushes become laden with Sloe Berries, adding a splash of color and a unique natural feature to the landscape. Reddit The combination of river, woodland, and open spaces creates a diverse habitat that supports a variety of local wildlife, offering pleasant encounters for those who take the time to observe. InstagramReddit

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