January is a great time to explore East Cambridgeshire at a slower pace.
With winter wildlife at its peak, the first signs of spring beginning to appear, and a programme of concerts, exhibitions and markets continuing into the new year, there’s plenty to enjoy across the district.
Snowdrop Season at Anglesey Abbey
Dates: From 26 January
Location: Anglesey Abbey, Gardens and Lode Mill
January marks the start of snowdrop season at Anglesey Abbey, when delicate white flowers begin to emerge across the gardens. Specialist snowdrop tours offer a chance to explore the collection in more detail and enjoy one of winter’s most uplifting sights as the days slowly lengthen.
Winter Wildlife at WWT Welney Wetland Centre
Dates: Throughout January
Location: WWT Welney
January is one of the best months to visit WWT Welney, with winter wildlife events running throughout the month. Highlights include the daily 3.30pm swan feed, floodlit swan feeds on selected evenings, hare walks, and guided wetland walks. With thousands of birds gathering on the reserve, winter visits are always memorable.
January Markets in Ely
Dates: Weekly throughout January
Location: Ely Market Place
Ely’s markets continue into the new year, with regular Thursday, Saturday and Sunday markets, plus Friday mini markets. January is a lovely time to browse antiques, local produce and crafts at a gentler pace, and to enjoy the historic setting of the Market Place without the festive crowds.
Live Music & Concerts at Ely Cathedral
Dates: January
Location: Ely Cathedral
Ely Cathedral hosts a strong programme of live music this January, including An Evening of Radiohead (16 & 17 January), Britten: War Requiem (24 January) and A Tribute to Hans Zimmer & Film Favourites – Illuminated (30 January). These large-scale performances make for standout winter evenings in one of the region’s most iconic settings.
January Exhibition at Ely Museum
Dates: From 14 January
Location: Ely Museum
Ely Museum opens its Who Brewed Beer? exhibition this January, exploring the history of brewing and beer production through objects, stories and local connections. Alongside the exhibition, the museum continues to offer family-friendly activities and sessions throughout the month.
Guided Tours at Oliver Cromwell’s House
Dates: Selected dates in January
Location: Oliver Cromwell’s House, Ely
January tours at Oliver Cromwell’s House offer visitors the chance to explore Ely’s history and Cromwell’s life in more depth. These guided sessions provide a fascinating insight into one of the city’s most significant historic buildings.
Explore tours at Oliver Cromwell’s House
Make the Most of January in East Cambs
From snowdrops and winter wildlife to concerts, exhibitions and markets, January offers plenty of ways to enjoy East Cambridgeshire at a relaxed pace. Whether you’re spending time outdoors or soaking up culture indoors, it’s a great month to explore the district in a quieter season.