OTHER INFORMATION

Visitors to our permanent gallery display will see over 125 stained glass panels representing eight hundred years of the history of this ancient art, from the thirteenth century to the present day. All the exhibits are displayed at eye-level enabling visitors to have a rare close-encounter with the art of stained glass. Temporary exhibitions are also held throughout the year, highlighting panels and designs from the Museum's reserve collection.

General guidance for all visitors

Visitors should not visit the museum if they have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms or test positive for covid-19.

Restricting visitor numbers

At busy times we may restrict the number of visitors entering the museum to control the flow of visitors through the museum entrance/shop area, avoid bottlenecks and queues.

Access

The Museum is on an upper level of a Grade-I listed medieval Cathedral and entrance is via a spiral staircase of 40 steps. For more information see our access page.

Facilities

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 can use the toilet facilities available on the ground floor of Ely Cathedral, or the 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, and the Refectory Cafe within the building. There are also a number of cafes in the city centre just a short 5-10 minute walk away.

Free Admission

Entry to The Stained Glass Museum is free for:
● National Art Pass holders
● Museum Association members
● Friends of Ely Cathedral
● Friends of The Stained Glass Museum
● Companions or carers of disabled visitors
Please show your relevant membership card to gain free entry

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

For more information see our Visiting FAQ

In the Gallery

Spotlights: From 25 May 2022, on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 2.30pm visitors can find out more about our collection from one of our team who will shine a 'spotlight' on one of the stained glass artworks on display. Spotlights are free for visitors who have already paid admission. There is no need to pre-book.

Activities for Children: We have an interactive lightbox in the museum gallery and 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.

Bags: The museum does not permit large bags in the museum gallery, in order to protect its collections and adheres to Ely Cathedral's policy to restrict entry to those with large bags.

Researchers

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

If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact the Museum.

Groups

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

Plan Your Visit
Resources