About East Cambs
Welcome to East Cambridgeshire, where history, nature, and adventure come together to create the perfect escape.
East Cambridgeshire is a mix of rolling farmland, historic market towns, and the unique wetland landscapes of the Fens. The district covers an area of around 651 square kilometres and is bordered by Fenland, Huntingdonshire, South Cambridgeshire, West Suffolk, and King’s Lynn and West Norfolk.
East Cambs by numbers
East Cambridgeshire has a rich and varied history that stretches back thousands of years.
The area was once part of a vast fenland landscape, inhabited since prehistoric times. Archaeological evidence suggests early settlements from the Neolithic and Bronze Age, with the Romans later establishing roads and settlements, particularly around Ely and the surrounding countryside.
During the Anglo-Saxon period, Ely became a significant religious centre, thanks to St Etheldreda, who founded a monastery there in 673 AD. The site later became Ely Cathedral, one of the most impressive Norman structures in England. The cathedral played a central role in local history, including during the resistance against the Norman conquest.
The draining of the fens in the 17th century, transformed East Cambridgeshire’s landscape, creating the fertile farmland that defines much of the area today. Agriculture flourished, and the region became known for its arable farming and food production, a legacy that continues today.
Stay, dine and explore with ease
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious riverside hotel, a cosy countryside retreat, or a charming guesthouse in the heart of a historic market town, East Cambridgeshire has something to suit every traveller’s style and budget.
Food lovers will also find plenty to savour, with a wide variety of restaurants, pubs, and cafés offering everything from hearty traditional meals to modern fine dining. Enjoy a riverside meal with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, stop by a friendly pub for classic fish and chips or a Sunday roast, or relax in a quaint tearoom with homemade cakes and a pot of locally blended tea.
Its proximity to Cambridge and other major cities such as Peterborough, Norwich, and London makes East Cambridgeshire the perfect base for exploring the wider region. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful countryside escape with easy access to city attractions or a convenient stop on a longer journey, this area offers the best of both worlds.
