Top 10 Best Hotels in East Cambridgeshire

Staying in East Cambridgeshire

East Cambridgeshire attracts a steady stream of visitors throughout the year. Tourists come to admire Ely Cathedral and explore the city's riverside, nature lovers head for Wicken Fen, racing fans travel to nearby Newmarket and business visitors arrive to work with companies across the Cambridge region. The district's hotels reflect this variety, ranging from traditional inns with centuries of history to contemporary boutique properties and comfortable budget options.

Choosing the right hotel can make or break a visit. Location, character, dining and amenities all matter, especially in a rural district where some attractions are best reached by car. Here are ten of the best hotels in East Cambridgeshire and just beyond its borders.

The Top 10 Hotels

1. The Lamb Hotel, Ely

The Lamb Hotel is a historic coaching inn located just a short walk from Ely Cathedral. It combines traditional character with comfortable rooms, a welcoming bar and a restaurant serving classic British dishes. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city on foot.

2. Poets House, Ely

Poets House is a stylish boutique hotel set in elegantly restored townhouses close to the cathedral. Known for its luxurious rooms, refined dining and attentive service, it is a favourite for romantic breaks, special celebrations and discerning business travellers.

3. Old Hall Ely

Old Hall Ely is a beautiful country house estate on the edge of the city, offering stunning views of the cathedral across open countryside. Renowned as a wedding venue, it also provides elegant accommodation that captures the romance and tranquillity of the Fens.

4. The Anchor Inn, Sutton Gault

Set beside the New Bedford River, The Anchor Inn is a charming riverside inn with comfortable rooms and a reputation for excellent food. Its peaceful location appeals to walkers, birdwatchers and anyone seeking a quiet escape in the heart of the fenland landscape.

5. The Bell Inn, Kennett

The Bell Inn at Kennett is a traditional village inn on the southern edge of the district, conveniently located for Newmarket and the A14. Its blend of character, hearty food and comfortable rooms makes it popular with racegoers and travellers heading across East Anglia.

6. Travelodge Ely

Travelodge Ely offers reliable, budget-friendly accommodation with easy access to the A10 and the city centre. It is a practical choice for business travellers, contractors and families who need a simple, comfortable base at an affordable price.

7. Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa, Newmarket

Just beyond the district border, Bedford Lodge is a luxurious hotel and spa in the heart of horseracing country. With elegant rooms, an award-winning restaurant and extensive spa facilities, it is perfect for a pampering break or a special race day.

8. Tuddenham Mill

Tuddenham Mill is a beautifully converted watermill offering contemporary design, exceptional food and tranquil surroundings. Located a short drive from the eastern edge of the district, it is a destination hotel for food lovers and couples seeking a memorable getaway.

9. The Rutland Arms, Newmarket

The Rutland Arms is a historic Georgian coaching inn on Newmarket's high street, with a long association with the racing world. Its central location and traditional charm make it a convenient base for exploring Newmarket and the surrounding countryside.

10. Hotel du Vin Cambridge

For those who want to combine a stay in East Cambridgeshire with time in Cambridge, Hotel du Vin offers boutique accommodation in a characterful building close to the university. Its bistro, wine cellar and stylish rooms make it a popular choice for leisure and business guests.

Choosing the Right Hotel

Think first about the purpose of your visit. Those exploring Ely's heritage should stay in the city centre, where the cathedral, museums, restaurants and riverside are within easy walking distance. Visitors focused on nature may prefer a rural inn near the Ouse Washes or Wicken Fen, while racing fans will find the best options on the southern edge of the district and in Newmarket itself.

Consider practical factors such as parking, accessibility and dining. Many rural inns offer excellent restaurants, which is valuable in villages with limited alternatives. Business travellers should check Wi-Fi quality, workspace and proximity to the A10 or A14.

When to Visit

Spring and summer bring long evenings, riverside events and outdoor dining, while autumn showcases the dramatic fenland skies. Ely comes alive during festive markets and concerts in the cathedral, and Newmarket's major race meetings attract visitors from around the world. During these peak periods, hotels can fill quickly, so booking ahead is recommended.

Trends in the Hospitality Sector

Hotels in the region are increasingly focusing on local food and drink, with menus showcasing fenland produce, local breweries and East Anglian specialities. Sustainability initiatives such as reduced plastic use, electric vehicle charging and energy-efficient buildings are becoming more common. Boutique and characterful properties continue to grow in popularity as travellers seek authentic experiences over generic chain hotels.

Final Thoughts

East Cambridgeshire offers accommodation to suit every taste and budget. Stay at The Lamb Hotel or Poets House for easy access to Ely's attractions, choose The Anchor Inn for riverside tranquillity, or treat yourself at Bedford Lodge or Tuddenham Mill. With so many excellent choices, visitors can enjoy the history, landscape and hospitality of the Fens in comfort and style.