Nestled amongst the Medieval monastic buildings and within eye line of the majestic Ely Cathedral, apples grew in abundance. Times change, however, the city has grown, and the former orchards are now honoured in the names of buildings, streets and developments…
To Visit Ely however, the apples that once grew are still hugely important and have, for over two decades, been the bedrock of one of the most popular Events in the Ely Calendar – Ely’s Apple Day.
Now called Ely’s Apple and Harvest Fayre because of the close working with Ely Cathedral and their Harvest Festival, the beloved “Apple Day” as it is still known to locals and regular visitors from further It is on that success and the huge public support for this magical occasion, that 2025 sees a very special celebration! The event has reached the milestone of its 25th anniversary!
This October, the event will celebrate over a whole weekend, with over 80 traders and food vendors, a celebration of produce marquee, and the most amazing entertainment. Palace Green and Cross Green come to life in the early Autumnal days of October with a welcoming warmth that keeps the chill out of the air. Not only are there food traders selling apple-based and inspired goods, but crafters and artisan producers also flock to Ely to celebrate with us. From apple pies and crumble, to preserves and, of course, Hot Cider and heritage apple juice blends from one of the event sponsors, Watergull Orchards!
With much fun anticipated with the return of “The Longest Peel” – the challenge to achieve an unbroken strip of apple skin along with the slightly different version of that Sports Day staple, the Apple and Spoon race, “Find the Silver Apple” and so much more, this promises to be one of those weekends not to be missed.
The event will take place 11th and 12th October 2025 and will open at 10am and close at 4pm. The weekend is free to attend and isa family family-friendly event that aims to offer something for everyone, young and old. Traders include street Food sellers, apple products, charitable organisations and handcrafted goods. The city is served by several large free public car parks that offer both long and short stay options – all of which are within easy walking distance of the event.