Ely, United Kingdom
Poets House
Moody literary townhouse
Moody literary townhouse
Author Sybil Marshall's former home joins two adjacent townhouses opposite the cathedral, keeping dark-toned interiors beside a walled courtyard garden.
What it’s good at
Notable
Three Grade II listed townhouses, including the former home of writer Sybil Marshall.
Listed
Egyptian cotton bedding and freestanding William Holland copper soaking tubs in guestrooms.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
A series of 19C townhouses set opposite the cathedral. Spacious, boutique bedrooms come with beautiful bathrooms, good extras and a moody feel.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Ely Cathedral stands directly opposite, and the rest of the city centre is a short walk down St Mary's Street.
The rooms
Copper soaking tubs sit beside Egyptian cotton beds, and select rooms look straight out at Ely Cathedral.
Sonnet Bar & Lounge
A tufted leather bar sits beneath a skylight, serving cocktails and afternoon tea beside tall garden windows.
At the table
The dining room serves seasonal British cooking beside an open fireplace. Outside, tables sit under parasols in the walled garden.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.