Private Combined Visit: To Ely with Cambridge from London

A Day to Explore East Cambridgeshire: Cambridge and Ely from London

Imagine a day where you can step out of London’s hustle and find yourself surrounded by the gentle beauty of two quintessential English towns—Cambridge and Ely. For about $529 per person, this private 10-hour tour offers a balanced mix of scenic views, history, and authentic local charm, all in a comfortable private vehicle with a friendly driver. You’ll visit Cambridge’s famous punting rides, take in panoramic views from St Mary’s Church, and marvel at the towering Ely Cathedral—all with ample opportunity for photos, sightseeing, and maybe even a bit of relaxed browsing in local shops.

What really makes this trip stand out is the personalized experience: no crowds, no rushing, just your group and a knowledgeable driver guiding you through these historic towns. We especially appreciate the flexibility of a private tour—it allows you to tailor the visit to your pace, whether you’re keen on snapping dozens of photos or sitting quietly by the river with a coffee. Also, the scenic riverside strolls along Ely’s tranquil waterways provide a peaceful contrast to Cambridge’s vibrant university atmosphere.

One potential consideration is that admission tickets and guides are not included, so if you want to visit specific attractions like Ely Cathedral or Cambridge’s colleges, you’ll need to budget for those separately. Plus, since this is a driver-guided tour without a dedicated guide, any deeper historical or architectural insights would come from your own curiosity or supplementary guidebooks.

This experience suits travelers who value luxury, privacy, and flexibility—ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want a personalized day trip without the fuss of large tour groups. If you’re eager for authentic views, scenic moments, and a chance to really soak in the character of these two historic towns, this tour could be just the thing.

Key Points

Personalized Private Experience: Enjoy the comfort and flexibility of a private vehicle and driver.
Stunning Views & Unique Perspectives: Punting along the River Cam and panoramic views from St Mary’s Church.
Cultural & Architectural Highlights: Ely Cathedral’s impressive Gothic architecture and Cambridge’s historic university scene.
Flexible Timing & Pacing: You’re not rushed; the itinerary is designed for 6 hours of sightseeing, with plenty of time for photos and exploration.
Cost-Effective for Customization: While the price might seem high, it covers transportation and door-to-door service, offering convenience and tailored experiences.
No Included Tickets or Guides: You’ll want to plan for entry fees and any guides for specific attractions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details: What to Expect on Your Day Trip

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Pickup & Transportation

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup in London, where a professional driver will meet you at your designated location. The vehicle is described as modern, comfortable, and very clean, making the roughly 10-hour journey pleasant and hassle-free. The private nature of this tour means you won’t be sharing space with strangers, allowing for a relaxed atmosphere and conversation tailored to your interests.

Cambridge: 3 Hours of Charm & Waterways

Once in Cambridge, the highlight is taking a punt ride along the River Cam. We loved the unique perspective it offers—gliding past historic colleges, lush gardens, and historic bridges. This is the quintessential Cambridge experience, and it’s a great way to see the city from a different angle, especially if you’re short on time but want a memorable snapshot of Cambridge’s charm.

The tour also includes a photo stop, giving you a chance to capture the iconic skyline. For those seeking a little adventure, there’s an optional stand-up paddleboarding activity, which adds a fun, active element to your visit.

When it comes to exploring on land, the lively market stalls provide a glimpse into local life, often with an international flair. You can sample some street food or simply enjoy soaking up the vibrant street atmosphere. For panoramic views, climbing St Mary’s Church offers impressive vistas over Cambridge, giving you a sense of the city’s historic layout and natural beauty.

Ely: 2.5 Hours of History & Serenity

After Cambridge, your journey continues west to Ely. Rising above the flat Fenlands, Ely boasts a magnificent cathedral that dominates the skyline. You’ll have time for a photo stop to admire its stunning Gothic facade, and if you choose, explore the interiors (though tickets are not included, so plan accordingly).

The scenic Riverside walk in Ely offers a peaceful break, with tranquil waters and lush greenery—great for relaxing or simply taking in the quiet beauty of the city. Ely’s independent shops are perfect for finding a unique souvenir or two, and the local food scene adds a modern touch to this historic town.

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Returning to London

After your time in Ely, your driver will bring you back to your London pickup point, completing a satisfying day full of sightseeing, scenic views, and cultural highlights.

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Why This Tour Delivers Value

While the cost of approximately $529 might seem steep at first glance, it reflects the convenience of door-to-door service, private transport, and the ability to customize your day. You avoid the hassle of public transport, large groups, and rigid schedules, which enhances comfort and flexibility—especially beneficial if you’re traveling with family or a small group.

The scenic moments—punting on the River Cam, panoramic climbs, and riverside walks—are the kind of experiences that make a trip memorable. Since the tour doesn’t include entry tickets or guides, it encourages you to personalize your visit, perhaps with a little pre- or post-tour research or local guidebooks.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, privacy, and flexibility. If you love picturesque views, want to explore at your own pace, or are traveling with a small group or family, you’ll find this tour to be a perfect fit. It’s ideal for those who appreciate stunning architecture, scenic waterways, and charming towns—without the crowds or rushed schedules of larger group tours.

If you’re seeking a more in-depth guided experience with included tickets and expert commentary, you might want to look elsewhere. But if your goal is to enjoy the sights comfortably and authentically while keeping your options open, this private day trip hits the sweet spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, your private driver will pick you up and drop you off at your desired location in London in a modern, clean vehicle.

Are entrance tickets to Ely Cathedral or Cambridge’s colleges included?
No, entrance fees are not included. You’ll want to purchase any specific tickets separately if you wish to go inside the attractions.

Can I customize the timing at each stop?
The tour offers approximately 6 hours of sightseeing across both towns, with the driver guiding the pace based on your preferences. Since it’s a private tour, you could request more time in one place if desired.

What is the duration of the overall trip?
The entire journey, including travel time, typically lasts around 10 hours, but actual sightseeing time in Cambridge and Ely is about 6 hours.

Is there a guide with historical insights during the tour?
No, this tour does not include a guide. It’s driver-guided, so any additional historical or architectural insights would come from your own curiosity.

Is this suitable for families or small groups?
Yes, the private nature makes it ideal for small groups or families who want a personalized experience without large crowds.

In essence, this private trip from London to Cambridge and Ely offers a well-rounded look at two of Cambridgeshire’s most photogenic and historically significant towns. Whether you’re interested in stunning architecture, scenic waterways, or just a peaceful escape, this tour provides a flexible and comfortable way to enjoy England’s countryside charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: