Free Cathedral Entry
We charge an admission fee to help support the upkeep and maintenance of this magnificent building, which enables us to continue its long tradition of daily worship and music.
We highly value the contribution of the local community and other supporters of the Cathedral so we have created some exceptions to paying an entry fee within the following categories:
Children Under 16 - When accompanied by parent/in a family group.
Students - Students in full time education in Cambridgeshire*, with proof of ID. *On a further or higher education course lasting 1 year minimum.
Carers - When accompanying an adult with additional needs, paying a standard fee.
CB6/CB7 Residents - Anyone resident in CB6 or CB7 postcode is entitled to free entry. Please bring valid proof of address (household bill / driving licence) to show on arrival for each resident. Please note we no longer issue resident passes.
Parish Pass Holders - Entry with Parish Passholder card. (These are issued by the Cathedral only on completion of Ely Cathedral Parish Pass application form - See link to form below). Any new applications should be made by downloading the form and bringing the completed form into the Cathedral during visiting times.
Please Note: Existing Parish Passes no longer have an expiry date so remain valid indefinitely.
Members of The Order of St. Etheldreda - Entry with membership card.
Friends of Ely Cathedral - Entry with membership card.
There is no need to pre-book if you are coming to the Cathedral within the Free Entry criteria (above). Please bring proof of ID or membership cards with you.
Free entry only applies to visitor tickets. Usual charges apply for concerts, events and tours (including Tower Tours, Monastic Tours and Special Interest Tours).
If you qualify for free entry and wish to pay for a tour in advance, please contact us at Box Office prior to your visit. It is not possible to book free visitor tickets online. It is possible to book tours on arrival, subject to availability.
Ely Cathedral Parish Pass application form
DownloadPlease note:
The upkeep of the Cathedral costs £10,000 a day. All visitor income and donations support the running costs and maintenance of this magnificent building as well as the on-going mission of the Dean and Chapter.
Everyone is welcome at Ely Cathedral. We will never turn anyone away if they are unable to, or do not wish to, pay to come in.
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