The Best Pubs
in
Ely

Tucked away on Fore Hill, this charming micropub is a true gem for anyone who loves a top-notch pint without breaking the bank. As the city's first micropub, it offers an ever-changing lineup of superb local ales, ciders, and wines, all served by a friendly team in a wonderfully chilled setting that welcomes groups and well-behaved dogs. The cozy, transport-themed space is perfect for settling in for a few hours, and with live music adding to the warm vibe, it’s an absolute must-visit for a relaxed, quality drink.

Head straight to West End House for a cracking traditional pub experience that truly has something for everyone. This deceptively spacious local boasts a fantastic selection of well kept real ales and a lovely beer garden, perfect for sunny afternoons. With live music, a friendly welcome for groups and dogs, and a warm, inviting spirit, it’s the ideal spot to settle in with a proper pint and great company.

Step into The Plough Inn and discover a true local treasure where the warmth of a traditional pub meets the vibrant, aromatic flair of Thai cuisine. This inviting spot serves up cracking real ales and reasonably priced wines alongside incredibly tasty dishes, from sizzling stir fries to rich curries, all made with genuine care. The atmosphere is both lively and relaxed, with a small but charming space that fills with happy locals and groups enjoying the garden. Just be sure to book ahead for weekends, as this beloved spot is a hidden gem that everyone wants to experience.

Discover Ely's proper pub, a hidden gem on Silver Street that masterfully pairs award worthy real ales with creative, seasonal dishes. This former officers mess boasts a fantastic beer garden and a brand new garden room, making it the perfect spot to gather with friends, your dog, or the whole group. With generous portions, a welcoming team, and a lineup of fresh, flavour packed food from pies to pizzas, it’s the kind of place where a quick drink turns into a memorable evening. Come for the outstanding beer festival, stay for the legendary bread and butter pudding.

For a proper pub that nails every occasion, Minster Tavern is an absolute winner. Whether you're catching the big match with a group, bringing the whole family including the dog, or just popping in after a visit to the cathedral, the welcome is always warm and the service is genuinely brilliant. The food is consistently excellent, from a cracking Sunday lunch to a perfectly poured cask ale, and the range of beers, wines, and cocktails means there’s something for everyone. It’s a lively, comfortable spot where locals and tourists alike feel right at home, and you can even book a table to make sure you’ve got a prime seat.

Make your way to the Royal Standard, a historic 15th century pub that masterfully blends old world charm with a seriously good time. With a superb 60 bottle wine list, perfectly cooked steaks, fresh seafood, and well kept real ales plus creative cocktails, there’s a delicious drink and dish for everyone in your group. The beautiful rear garden and welcoming indoor spaces are ideal for gathering with friends, your dog, or a larger group, all served by a genuinely friendly team. It’s a top notch spot for a memorable meal, a relaxed drink, or even an overnight stay in the heart of the action.

Nestled right beside the magnificent cathedral, this historic 15th century coaching inn is a brilliant spot for any occasion. The menu is packed with delicious pub classics and hearty roasts, all served at a very reasonable price, while the bar offers a cracking selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. It’s wonderfully dog friendly and perfect for groups, with a warm, welcoming team that makes everyone feel right at home. Whether you’re stopping in for a pint, a fantastic meal, or a comfortable overnight stay, this is a true local treasure you’ll want to return to again and again.

This pub is a true local treasure, offering a cracking menu of perfectly executed pub classics alongside a fantastic lineup of beers, wines, and cocktails. The welcoming team and comfortable indoor spaces are matched by a massive beer garden, making it an ideal spot for groups, dog owners, and sports fans alike. With frequent live music spanning soul, motown, and rock, plus fair prices and great deals, it’s a lively and friendly spot you’ll want to return to again and again.

Come on down to The Fountain, a proper local pub that’s all charm and character with no frills just friendly faces and fantastic beer. The selection is excellent, the welcome is warm, and it’s a brilliant spot for groups or a quiet pint with your dog by your side. This is a place where you can settle in for a winter’s evening or a lively catch up, and feel right at home from the moment you walk through the door.

Right in the heart of the city, The Hereward is an absolute cracker of a pub where every visit feels like a proper occasion. With an unbeatable selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, plus live music and every major sporting event on the screens, it’s a brilliant spot for groups, dog walkers, and anyone after a great time. The outdoor seating is perfect for sunny afternoons, and the whole place buzzes with a genuinely welcoming energy that makes it impossible to leave after just one round.