Originally Posted by TravisGill

The small city of Ely’s crown jewel is the impressive Ely Cathedral. Its origins date back to AD 672 when St. Etheldreda built an abbey church. The present building dates back to 1083, and cathedral status was granted it in 1109.


An impressive cathedral that stands 66 meters (216 ft) tall at its main entrance and west tower.


The delay on the A14 freeway turned out to be a blessing because just as we arrived, a new bride and groom were leaving which allowed us to capture this memory. We wish them the best!


The cathedral is quite impressive considering the relatively small size of Ely with a population of just 20k.


The octagonal tower forms the most distinctive and celebrated feature of the cathedral.




The impressive Octagon as seem from inside looking towards the Choir.


The Octagon was actually born out of an accident; in 1322 the central crossing tower collapsed. It was enlarged to form the octagon instead of being restored to its original size and square shape.


A modern sculpture of Jesus Christ hangs from the Nave.


Some of the amazing detail and biblical stories told via the stained-glass windows.


A weeping cherub mourns the death of a prominent religious leader.


Looking towards the West Tower from beneath the Octagon.


A modern statue titled Christ and Saint Mary Magdalene by sculptor David Wynne, depicts the moment when Mary recognizes Jesus on the morning of the resurrection.


The detailed roof artwork of the nave section of the cathedral.


Meridiana by Heleine Blumenfeld. An exhibition titled “Tree of Life” by nationally acclaimed artist and contemporary sculptor Helaine Blumenfeld was on display throughout the cathedral.


Prayer candles flicker inside the vastness of the cathedral walls.

After the Ely Cathedral we did a bit of walking around the shopping square nearby.


A memorial to soldiers who fought for England’s freedom and way of life. The red poppies on the lapel of the soldiers marks the 100 years since the end of WWI.

By now it was late afternoon, and many of the shops were closing for the evening. We continued along two-lane roads to Harwich where we would be catching our ferry to the Netherlands.


We came across this roadside table selling pears (not apples?) where you select a bag of fruit and then leave the money in a jar. I love when the honesty system works! By the way, the pears were delicious!


This large and powerful Clydesdale came to the fence to see our funny looking mules.

We made our way to the Harwich Ferry Dock where we received our boarding passed for us and the mules. Unfortunately, we had to wait in the parking lot for 1 hour, 20 minutes before boarding.


Time to board the MV Stena Hollandica for an overnight crossing of the English Channel to the Netherlands.


We had a private cabin with an outside view way up on the 10th floor for this 8-hour journey back to mainland Europe.


The many stairways and artwork showing different European destinations.


A nicely appointed ferry.


Here’s our room!

We quickly unpacked and then made our way to the dining area for a final meal of our grand 23-day UK and Ireland adventure.


We enjoyed a great dinner with excellent food and service.


The next morning, we awoke to this amazing sunrise as we entered Hoek van Holland.

More of Europe awaits exploring. I can’t wait until the next motorcycle adventure in 2019....