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.

Admission prices

Adult: £6.00
Children under 16: Free (when accompanied by a paying adult)
Students (with ID): £5.50

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

Opening Hours

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

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

Temporary Closures/Changes to Opening Hours:
SGM CLOSED: 24-26 December 2024 for Christmas (will we be open our usual hours from 27 December)

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.

Location and Accessibility

The Stained Glass Museum is located in Ely Cathedral. It occupies a space in the south triforium, an upper level of the cathedral. Access is by a stone spiral staircase (40 stairs) from the south-west transept.
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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 first, as we are currently restricting numbers due to the size of our gallery. Guided tours are also available for pre-booked groups. Group Visits Information

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

Other Visitor Information

Toilets: Please note there are no toilets in the Stained Glass Museum, but toilet facilities are available on the ground floor of Ely Cathedral.

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

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

Activities for children: The museum has a family-friendly children's area with an interactive lightbox. Children's trails are available during school holidays.

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

Researchers: The Museum's reference library and reserve collection can be visited via prior appointment. Please make an appointment with the Curator.

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