www.Ely.org.uk pieces together the information gathered from the various Archæological Units at work in this most ancient of cities in an attempt to shed light onto the comings and goings of our Island of History that is Ely.

<= West towards Coveny

=> EAST Towards the Cathedral

This map shows the various findings in the West Fen end of Ely, an Ancient Causeway that leads towards the natural ridge that bears the modern-day villages of Coveney and Little Downham. Roddy's finger points to where we are in the picture below. This site is researched by The Cambridge University Archaeological Unit.

On the other side of West Fen Road, the Northhants Archaeological Unit excitedly excavate what appears to be remains of an Iron-Age farm.

The 50,000 separate archaeological artefacts found on the site included Ely Ware, a locally made earthenware pottery. Archaeologists haven't found the Kiln but believe it to be further in-town or down near the river.

As well as pottery from Ely, Haverhill and St.Neots. Large quantities of bones where found. These included Dogs, Cows, Sheep, Pigs and Cats.


Evidence of Sea Shells showed that Mussels were traded and eaten on the site. Small fish bones revealed Ely's thriving fishing culture.

The dark markings reveal small dykes and ditches used as drainage channels and boundaries between neighbours. Post holes, some with packing stones show where relatively large buildings once stood.

One of the most exciting finds was a Roman Grave. Now filled with water the occupier has already been moved to dryer ground along with the rest of the many and varied artefacts.

One of the problems with a full Archaeological observation is what to do with the amount of materials found. It is hoped that the citizens and businesses of Ely will come up with funds to house the artefacts and hopefully provide a permanent display centre for these historical pieces.
Maybe another Museum is in order for the Broad Street development.