ELY

Cathedral spires rise from the flat fenland like a medieval mirage. This ancient market town earned its moniker 'Ship of the Fens' thanks to the way Ely Cathedral dominates the horizon across miles of reclaimed marshland - and it's a sight that still stops traffic on the A10.

History runs deep here. Oliver Cromwell's House tells the tale of the man who signed a king's death warrant, while Ely Castle Mound marks where William the Conqueror finally subdued the rebellious isle. The Stained Glass Museum houses one of Britain's finest collections, tucked away within the cathedral itself.

Beyond the obvious draw of the Norman cathedral, Ely surprises. The Old Fire Engine House serves proper traditional fare in Georgian surroundings, while Liberty Belle Cruises offer a different perspective from the Great Ouse. For something completely different, the RAF Witchford Collection preserves wartime aviation history - a reminder that this flat landscape made ideal airfield country.

Ely Country Park provides breathing space along the river, perfect for walks between the town's historic lanes and the wider fenland. Fish and Duck Marina draws weekend sailors, though the real beauty lies in simply wandering the medieval streets that climb gently from the waterside.

The A10 brings you straight here from Cambridge in 20 minutes, or there's a decent train service from London Liverpool Street. Staying at one of the local parks like Fields End Water or Fenland Camping puts you right in the heart of this unique landscape - close enough to walk into town for dinner, far enough out to appreciate why the Normans chose this spot to build their cathedral fortress.