Ely Museum in the Old Gaol

History in a Gaol

Ely Museum occupies the atmospheric Old Gaol, a building with roots stretching back to the 17th century when it served as the Bishop’s prison. Before becoming a museum, this stone structure held debtors and felons, its cells echoing with stories of hardship and injustice in the Fenland past. Today, those same walls shelter a lively, modern museum that traces Ely’s story from the warm Jurassic seas that once covered the region to the rich farmland and market town of today. The building itself is part of the experience, with its thick walls and historic layout adding character to the displays.

Life in the Fens

The museum’s nine galleries explore how people have lived on the Isle of Ely and in the surrounding fens over thousands of years. Exhibits cover prehistoric life, Roman occupation, Anglo-Saxon settlement, and the medieval monastic community that grew around Ely Cathedral. You’ll learn about eel fishing, fen skating, and the unique challenges of farming on land that was once marsh. Displays of farming tools, household objects, and local crafts reveal how communities adapted to the watery landscape, turning the Fens into the fertile ‘black gold’ fields seen today.

Stories of Prison and Protest

One of the most evocative parts of the museum is its exploration of the gaol’s own past. Original cells and prison records tell the stories of inmates, from debtors pleading for mercy to rioters like the Littleport Martyrs, whose protests for bread in the early 19th century were met with harsh punishment. The museum doesn’t shy away from the darker side of history, using letters, graffiti, and personal accounts to bring the lives of ordinary people into sharp focus. This blend of social history and local justice makes the museum a powerful place to understand how law, poverty, and resistance shaped the region.

A Treasure from the Bronze Age

Among the museum’s standout objects is a magnificent Bronze Age gold torc, one of the largest ever discovered in Britain. This stunning piece of ancient craftsmanship is a highlight for many visitors, offering a tangible link to the skilled metalworkers of prehistoric times. Alongside it, finds from Roman and Anglo-Saxon periods – including jewellery, tools, and everyday items – help build a vivid picture of life in this part of East Anglia across the centuries. Temporary and special exhibitions often focus on particular themes, from wartime evacuees to local industries, adding fresh perspectives with each visit.

Family-Friendly Discovery

Ely Museum is designed to be welcoming and engaging for visitors of all ages. Interactive displays, dressing-up areas, and hands-on activities encourage children to explore history through play. There are opportunities to try on period clothing, handle replicas of ancient tools, and even use UV flashlights to discover hidden details in exhibits. The museum runs regular family events and a popular toddler group, making it a great destination for a relaxed, educational outing. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, happy to share stories and answer questions about the collections and the building’s past.

Modern Galleries in a Historic Setting

Following a major redevelopment funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the museum’s galleries have been transformed into light, airy spaces that make the most of the historic building. The displays are well-organised and clearly explained, blending artefacts, images, and multimedia to tell the story of Ely and its people. The museum’s annual ticket – valid for a full year – offers excellent value, especially for local families or those planning to return. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a curious visitor, or a family looking for an interesting indoor activity, Ely Museum provides a rich, accessible introduction to the unique landscape and heritage of the Fens.