August is packed with events to keep the whole family entertained.
From beach-themed fun and classic car displays to Shakespeare under the stars, there’s plenty going on in East Cambs this month.
Ely Market’s Foodie Friday
Date: April – August
Location: Ely
On the last Friday of each month, Ely Market transforms into a buzzing hub of flavour and fun for Foodie Friday. Tuck into a mouth-watering mix of street food from local favourites and exciting new vendors, all served up alongside live music and laid-back entertainment. Whether you’re catching up with friends or bringing the whole family, it’s the perfect way to kick-start your weekend.
Prickwillow Steam Pump Museum: Summer Engine Running Day
Date: April-October
Location: Prickwillow Steam Pump Museum
On the last Sunday in the month the engines will be running at Prickwillow Steam Pump Museum! See these impressive old engines in action and learn about the area’s engineering past. There’ll be refreshments and plenty to explore – great for curious minds of all ages.
Prickwillow Museum, a registered educational charity, tells the story of the drainage of the Fens, the history of the local area, and those who ran the drainage pumps in remote locations. The museum showcases some of the region’s finest examples of restored diesel engines.
Admission prices are £5 for adults with £4 concessions, and children (up to 16 years with an adult) go free unless otherwise stated. For those arriving in a pre-1990 vehicle, from June to September only, the driver will be admitted free.
Ely Cathedral Classic Car Show
Date: Saturday 2 August
Location: Palace Green, Ely Cathedral
Cambridge & District Classic Car Club returns to Ely with a stunning display of up to 100 vintage vehicles. From pre-war motors to classic rides from the 20th century, it’s a nostalgic treat for car lovers of all ages. Visitors can vote for their favourite, with rosettes awarded by the mayor. Find the show on Old Palace Green opposite the west door of Ely Cathedral right in the heart of the city.
Ely Cathedral’s Tower Tours
Date: All month
Location: Ely
Join a specialist Tower Guide on this fascinating tour inside the Octagon Tower of Ely Cathedral. Peer through the Angel doors, climb 170 spiral steps and take in spectacular views over the city and Fens from the rooftop.
Please Note: There are 170 spiral steps in the tower. A reasonable level of fitness is required and we advise anyone with any mobility issues or pre-existing health conditions to consider this before booking.
The tours take around 1 hour and run three times a day in the week and twice on Sunday.
Tickets: Adults £11 (in addition to your visitor ticket)
Children £9. Children under 10 are not permitted on this tour.
Outdoor Theatre: Twelfth Night at Anglesey Abbey
Date: Saturday 16th and 23rd August
Location: Anglesey Abbey
The Lord Chamberlain’s Men return with Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night performed open-air with the Jacobean-style country house as the backdrop. Bring your own low-backed chairs, pack a picnic, and prepare for a magical evening of theatre.
Booking is essential.
Gates open: 6pm. Performance: 7pm. Running time: Approx. 2h 10m.
Riverside Concerts at Jubilee Gardens
Date: Throughout August 2.30-4.30pm
Location: Jubilee Gardens, Ely
Enjoy the sounds of summer with free live music performances at Jubilee Gardens. Overlooking the river, this relaxed outdoor venue is the perfect place to unwind with friends and family. Bring a blanket, a picnic, and let the music take over.
3rd August – Stamford Stompers
17th August – King’s Lynn Town Band
24th – Somersham Town Band
31st August – Waterbeach Band
Whether you’re planning a big day out or just looking for something new on your doorstep, East Cambs has plenty to offer this August. From markets and concerts to theatre and play zones, there’s something here to make your summer sing.
Got an event to share? Get in touch and we’ll add it to our next guide!