WELCOME

The Stained Glass Museum is the only museum dedicated to the art of stained glass in the UK. The museum boasts a nationally-significant collection of stained glass, associated designs, materials and tools which reveal the development of this unique art from the 13th century to present day.

The museum’s permanent gallery space is located in the triforium of Ely Cathedral. It houses a chronological display featuring stained glass from the museum’s own collection as well as from partner organisations the V&A and the Royal Collection. Displayed at eye-level, visitors can experience this art form at close quarters.

An engaging learning programme for all ages sees practical glass workshops led by professional artists, talks, tours and family activities held throughout the year.

Opening Hours

Summer (1 April – 31 October)
Monday - Saturday
10:00am – 5:00pm (last admission 4:30pm)

Winter (1 November – 31 March)
Monday - Saturday
10:00am – 4:00pm (last admission 3:30pm)

We will be open as usual on bank holiday Monday, including on Monday 26 May and Monday 4 August 2025


Please note that the Museum is located in a working Cathedral building, and occasionally has to close for special events and services. Please check here for changes to opening hours, temporary closures, or phone in advance of your visit to avoid disappointment.

Occasionally, Museum and Cathedral opening times may differ. Please visit Ely Cathedral's website for any changes in access to the main Cathedral building.

Admission

Adults: £6.50
Students: £6:00
Under 16s: Free (when accompanied by a paying adult)

Free entry to The Stained Glass Museum for National Art Pass holders, Museum Association members, Friends of Ely Cathedral, Friends of The Stained Glass Museum
Please show your relevant membership card to gain free entry

Location and Access

The Stained Glass Museum is on an upper level of a Grade-I listed medieval Cathedral and entrance is via a spiral staircase (40 steps). For more information see our access page.
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By Train: Ely is 1 hour 15 minutes by rail from London, and 15-20 minutes from Cambridge. The Stained Glass Museum is a 15 minute walk from Ely rail station. There is a taxi rank outside the station.

By Car: Ely is situated on the A10 north of Cambridge. There is a large free car park within 300 yards of the Cathedral. Parking in Ely

Preparing for your Visit

Group Visits: If you are planning to visit as part of a group please contact us. Discounted entry is available for groups of 10+. Group Visits Information

School Visits: We welcome visits from schools, colleges and other educational groups. Please contact our Learning Officers learning@stainedglassmuseum.com or telephone 01353 660347

Facilities

Bags: The museum does not permit large bags in the museum gallery, in order to protect its collections.

Activities for children: The museum is very family-friendly and there are a number of activities for children. Family visitors

Dogs:We are a dog-friendly museum. Well-behaved dogs are permitted in the museum, when accompanied by their responsible owners!

Photography: Photography is permitted in the main gallery for personal use only, providing that you adhere to the stipulations outlined in our Photography Policy.

Shop: The Museum has a well-stocked gift shop with exclusive handmade glass gifts and books dedicated to the history of stained glass. Our shop is open to everyone and you do not have to have a ticket to the museum to browse our shop.

Toilets: Please note that there are no toilet facilities within the museum itself. However, visitors with a Cathedral tickets can use the toilet facilities available on the ground floor of Ely Cathedral, or there nearby public toilets on Palace Green (all within 5 minutes walking distance).

Cafes: The Museum does not have a cafe although there are many cafes and restaurants in Ely including The Almonry within the grounds of Ely Cathedral. There are also a number of cafes in the city centre just a short 5-10 minute walk away.

Researchers: Search the Museum's collections and reference library online. Objects in the library and reserve collection can be visited via prior appointment. Please make an appointment with the Curator.

Find Out More

Please see our Visiting FAQ page to find out more about your visit.
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