As pubs with outdoor areas gear up to welcome back visitors next month, here are some of Ely and East Cambridgeshire's finest.

Surfing--golf-and-relaxing-in-the-park--Lockdown-is-eased


The Cutter Inn at Ely

42 Annesdale, Ely CB7 4BN

"From April 12, we’ve got a new menu for you to try, fresh beer on order, prosecco in the fridge and the suns shining. We’re just missing you".

Think England, think river, think great beer, think equally great good, think view. You’re already there.

Ely Standard: The Cutter Inn at ElyThe Cutter Inn at Ely (Image: THE CUTTER)

The Cutter is a jewel in the Ely crown with its tranquil setting and the most inviting of places to meet friends and enjoy this historic inn’s hospitality.

Outdoor seating is limited but well worth a short wait just for the view.


The Swan on the River at Littleport

1 Sandhill, Littleport, Ely CB6 1NT

Dine al fresco by the river from April 14 - "we are installing patio heaters and gazebos to increase your comfort".

Ely Standard: The Swan on the River at LittleportThe Swan on the River at Littleport (Image: SWAN ON THE RIVER)

Location, location, location. Three prized assets rolled into one at this delightful riverside pub and restaurant.

Plenty of outdoor seating, some excellent moorings nearby, and a perfect place to meet friends and enjoy the best of British pub and restaurant hospitality.


The Three Pickerels at Mepal

19 Bridge Road, CB6 2AR

An idyllic riverside pub, restaurant and bed & breakfast set alongside the New Bedford River, this pub offers seasonal dishes with locally sourced produce.

"It’s been one year since we’ve all had our lives turned upside down by COVID and we had to close our doors.

Ely Standard: View from the garden of The Three Pickerels in ElyView from the garden of The Three Pickerels in Ely (Image: THREE PICKERELS)

"No one knew that this would still be going on a year later, however the end is in sight!

"We can’t wait to have you all back inside the new and improved Three Pickerels".


The Village Inn at Witchford

80 Main Street, CB6 2HQ

A homely and friendly small village pub with freshly made food and a great selection of beer on tap.

Ely Standard: The Village Inn at WitchfordThe Village Inn at Witchford (Image: The Village Inn at Witchford)

As of April 12 "we will open outside table seating only; also please just be mindful of the Covid rules of a maximum of six people or two bubbles".


The Townhouse Pub

60-64 Market Street, CB7 4LS

With its conservatory and walled garden, the Townhouse celebrates its 25th birthday on April 12 - the day it reopens.

Ely Standard: The Townhouse in Ely pub gardenThe Townhouse in Ely pub garden (Image: TOWNHOUSE ELY)

"It'll be table service in the garden due to lockdown easing but it's a start. We look forward to seeing you wonderful people again".


The Crown Inn at Littleport

34 Main Street, CB6 1PJ

Reopening on Bank Holiday Weekend, it will be open Friday April 30 till Monday 2pm till 11pm.

Last orders will be at 10.30pm and it will be outside seating only. Toilets will be open and the rule of six or two households will be allowed to be seated.

Ely Standard: The Crown Inn at LittleportThe Crown Inn at Littleport (Image: THE CROWN)

"We will update you nearer the time with all the rules. Thank you for all your support we will see you all soon".


Five Miles From Anywhere at Upware

Old School Lane, CB7 5ZR

Situated in the hamlet of Upware on the outskirts of Ely, customers can enjoy a range of traditional pub fayre, home cooked meals and a regular specials.

Ely Standard: Families enjoying the sun at Five Miles From Anywhere in Upware last yearFamilies enjoying the sun at Five Miles From Anywhere in Upware last year (Image: FIVE MILES FROM ANYWHERE)

Established in 1995, Five Miles - which is reopning in April - also overlooks the River Cam from its spacious gardens.


The Ship at Soham

2-4 High Street, CB7 5HD

Beer garden only reopens from Thursday April 15: there are no reserved tables or booking system so there are limited tables available.

"You will be in two marquees undercover and there are heaters. Just remember a coat to keep to warm."

Ely Standard: The Ship at SohamThe Ship at Soham (Image: THE SHIP)

There is a new online ordering system available for anyone who wants to use it.

"Can’t wait to see you all. Fingers crossed for some lush weather soon."


West End House at Ely

West End, CB6 1AT

It has had many accolades but the visitor who summed the venue up as the “best proper pub in Ely, homely and friendly” nailed it.

Ely Standard: West End House at ElyWest End House at Ely (Image: West End House)

It has a reputation for its beers but also has a splendid beer garden too. Nice and convenient.


The Five Bells at Burwell

44 High St, CB25 0HD

A traditional village pub where you will find a warm welcome, great home cooked food, a good range of drinks, real ales and a cosy spot to while away the hours.

Ely Standard: The Five Bells at BurwellThe Five Bells at Burwell (Image: THE FIVE BELLS)

"We have a great beer garden and play area, and it's being given a full makeover by Zion Landscapes Ltd, ready for reopening on April 15".


The Lazy Otter at Stretham

Cambridge Rd, Stretham, CB6 3LU

"We are getting ready for April 12 - more information to come!"

Nestled beside the River Ouse, the pub is a long-established favourite and great for a leisurely drink or a meal too.

Ely Standard: The Lazy Otter at StrethamThe Lazy Otter at Stretham (Image: The Lazy Otter)

The gardens are spacious and overlook the moorings – a delightful spot for these long lazy summers days. It’s also a great place for families too with an enclosed play area.