Is Ely worth visiting?

Yes, it is a beautiful historic city.

Yes, it is a straightforward drive via the M11.

Yes, there are several charming hotels in the city.

Cowbridge

Ely

Train Driving

Cowbridge to Ely

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Cowbridge to the historic cathedral city of Ely covers approximately 220 miles. You will travel from the Welsh coast across to the Fens of Cambridgeshire. Rail travel requires a journey into London and a transfer to the Cambridge/Ely line. Driving is a viable alternative, utilizing the M4 and M11 motorways. This journey typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on your chosen mode and traffic conditions.

Total Distance: 355 km driving distance and 290 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest method, taking approximately 4 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally the most cost-effective option for this route.

Compare Cowbridge to Ely Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 30 mins	4 hours
Avg Price	£85 - £160	£50 - £70 fuel
Operator	Great Western Railway and Greater Anglia	Personal Vehicle
Route	Cardiff Central to London Paddington, transfer to London King's Cross or Liverpool Street, then to Ely.	M4, M25, M11.
Tip	Trains from King's Cross to Ely are often faster than those from Liverpool Street.	The M11 can be busy; check for accidents before you leave.

Travel Tips

Book Train Tickets
Use Advance tickets to save money on your rail journey.
Check M25 Traffic
The M25 is the biggest variable in your driving time; plan accordingly.
Parking in Ely
Use the city center car parks, which are well-signposted.
Railcard
Use a Railcard if you are eligible to reduce your fare.
Plan Your Route
Use a GPS to navigate the final stretch into Ely.