Walk

Ely City Walk and River Great Ouse

Cambridgeshire

Dog Friendly Rating:8/10A Fenland city walk combining the Great Ouse riverside with views of Ely Cathedral, the Ship of the Fens.

Ely sits on what was once an island rising from the surrounding fenland, and this 6.4 km circuit combines riverside walking along the Great Ouse with open country at the edge of the city. The route follows the towpath south past boat moorings to Roswell Pits, former clay extraction lakes now managed as a nature reserve, before returning through the city park with the cathedral's extraordinary octagonal tower visible above the rooftops. The 18 m of climbing is virtually non-existent, and the terrain is flat and easy on towpath, grass and gravel throughout. The combination of river, lakes and open fenland gives the walk more variety than the flat terrain might suggest.

This is a dog friendly walk with good water access and surprising wildlife interest. The Great Ouse is a proper swimming river for confident dogs, with gentle bank access at the nature reserve end. Roswell Pits hold kingfishers, great crested grebes and wintering wildfowl, and the rich waterside scent keeps dogs engaged along both the river and the lakes. Off-lead potential is moderate, with the quieter sections along the river and around the pits offering good stretches where livestock are absent. The flat, accessible terrain suits dogs of all ages and abilities. Several riverside pubs in Ely are dog-welcoming, including The Cutter on the waterfront, making it easy to combine the walk with refreshments. A civilised outing with genuine character.

At a Glance

Distance: 6.4 km (4.0 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 2 hr
Walk Type: River, Canal
Route Type: Circular
Off Lead Potential: Moderate
Livestock Risk: Low
Facilities: Full city facilities in Ely
Parking: Ely station car park or town centre car parks

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ely City Walk and River Great Ouse dog friendly?
Yes, this is a well-suited walk for dogs and earns a strong 8/10 dog-friendly rating. The Great Ouse offers proper swimming for confident dogs with gentle bank access near the nature reserve, and the flat towpath, grass and gravel terrain is easy going for dogs of all ages and abilities. The wildlife-rich waterside environment , kingfishers, grebes and wintering wildfowl at Roswell Pits , keeps dogs thoroughly engaged throughout the 6.4 km circuit. Several riverside pubs in Ely are dog-welcoming too, including The Cutter on the waterfront.
Can dogs be off lead at Ely City Walk and River Great Ouse?
Off-lead potential is moderate on this route. The quieter sections along the river and around Roswell Pits offer good stretches where dogs can roam freely, as livestock are absent in these areas. You'll want to use your judgement closer to the city park and busier parts of the route.
What should I know before visiting Ely City Walk and River Great Ouse with my dog?
The route is a 6.4 km flat circuit with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for older dogs or those with mobility limitations. Water access is a highlight , the Great Ouse is a genuine swimming river, so if your dog is a keen swimmer, they'll be well catered for. Parking is available at Ely station car park or the town centre car parks, and you have the full range of city facilities on hand throughout.