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The Stained Glass Museum

Museum | Ely | England | United Kingdom

The Stained Glass Museum in Ely is the only museum in the United Kingdom dedicated solely to the art of stained glass. Located in the impressive Ely Cathedral, it showcases a significant collection of stained glass windows that illustrate the development of this art form from its beginnings in the 13th century to the present day. The exhibitions provide a unique insight into the techniques and styles of stained glass painting, from medieval windows to modern, innovative designs.

The museum's collections include not only finished stained glass windows, but also the designs, materials, and tools used in their creation. Visitors can get a behind-the-scenes look at the stained glass process and learn more about the creative and artisanal skills required to create these impressive works of art. Notable exhibits include works from various periods and renowned artists, including stained glass windows from churches and historical buildings, some of which are also from the collections of the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Royal Collection.

The museum also offers an extensive educational program with workshops and activities for visitors of all ages to discover the art of stained glass in an interactive way. In this context, special workshops on glass fusion, stained glass painting, and other related techniques are also offered. Visitors can get hands-on and create their own glass works.

The Stained Glass Museum is an important place for art and culture enthusiasts, allowing visitors to experience and appreciate the rich heritage of stained glass painting while also offering a modern perspective on this ancient art form.

Contact details

Web

Phone

Address
Cathedral, The South Triforium
CB7 4DL Ely

Map view

Opening hours

Sunday--
Monday10:00 - 16:00
Tuesday10:00 - 16:00
Wednesday10:00 - 16:00
Thursday10:00 - 16:00
Friday10:00 - 16:00
Saturday10:00 - 16:00

Reviews

165 Reviews

Emma Peel
09.11.2024

It's a huge climb up the stairs but the magnificent collection is totally worth it. The range of different styles of stained glass and the history and development are all well told. Some amazing examples on display, some slyly humorous and some just gorgeous. It's a clever use of the cathedral space too, unlike the opposite side which looks like a storage attic. The shop has lots of tempting little pieces.
adam Shirley
22.10.2024

Small but super museum. Such a lovely mix of styles. Surprisingly a lot to do for kids. There is a kids fun bag full of activities and even some colouring for them. Friendly and helpful staff as well.
David Burgess
06.10.2024

Didn't know there was so much to it. Fascinating.
Clare King
28.09.2024

Stunning works.
Gill Holmes
24.09.2024

Fascinating history of stained glass.
Eloisa Brook
22.08.2024

We did a brilliant family workshop there, museum is small but good.
Jane Bryant
02.08.2024

Superbly beautiful museum - never really realised what went into such beautiful windows!
Bill Birsay
09.07.2024

Really lovley museum, deceptively large. Spent around an hour looking around. Very informational and beautiful examples.
Daniella Bradbury
21.07.2024

Lovely place and stained glass is beautiful
Kevin. Turner
29.06.2024

My visit to the Ely Stained Glass Museum was an absolute delight! Located within Ely Cathedral, this museum houses an impressive collection of stained glass spanning over 800 years of history. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of the glass pieces are truly breathtaking. I was particularly fascinated by the medieval stained glass windows, which offer a glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship of past centuries. The museum also provides detailed information about the techniques and history of stained glass making, making it both educational and visually stunning. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, enhancing the overall experience. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking for something unique, the Ely Stained Glass Museum is a must-visit. It’s a hidden gem that adds another layer of beauty and history to the already magnificent Ely Cathedral. Highly recommended!
Maggie Taylor
26.06.2024

A really interesting place to visit in a beautiful cathedral setting
Ronald Greydanus
03.06.2024

Absolutely beautiful stained glass.
Mark Gett
18.05.2024

This offshoot of the Ely Cathedral was a little disappointing after having toured the main Cathedral. There is a mix of stained glass from the 16th through the 21st century.
Lauren Perthen
28.01.2024

Fabulous collection! Found this really engaging. Well worth £6 👏🏻
Ben
04.11.2023

Interesting museum, with very detailed stain glass with and history. The little shop has great hand crafted pieces to purchase .
D W
14.07.2023

We had a smashing time
Ryuhaerang Choi
09.07.2023

If you're planning to visit the cathedral, this museum is worth visiting as well. It offers a variety of intricately designed stained glass windows with different themes, and you can enjoy them for about 30 minutes. The museum also showcases miniature displays of the process of creating stained glass. It's a great place to buy souvenirs made of glass, but it would be helpful to have a better packaging method to ensure that glass souvenirs are not easily broken when taken home.
Tristan Torgersen
12.03.2023

Beautiful and worth the visit in Ely.
Stacy Hackner
22.06.2022

Great display of stained glass and the technology used to make it. The audioguide (free, a QR code so you can use your own headphones) is very focussed on the Victorian era ones rather than medieval, which was disappointing as I find the older ones much more interesting. Free if you have Art Fund/museum recirocity.
Becky T
16.04.2022

Very unique museum worth a 30 minute wander. It gives history of stained glass, how it’s made, and many examples of various work. I definitely felt like I now at least understand the basics for how it’s made and have a better appreciation of the craft, though did feel it focused a lot more on the 20th century (perhaps 50-65% of it) than was my preference. Note: It was inside the cathedral and 40 step walk up, but separate cost.
Quentin stark
16.04.2022

The museum is inside Ely Cathedral.Great friendly staff. Access is up a spiral staircase. Fabulous display through history of stained glass that is well displayed. Also a good audio tour that is free to download and access to more information via the qr codes.
Lifetime Traveller
06.04.2022

Lovely
David Weatherley
18.03.2022

The Museum is in a gallery on one side of the Cathedral, and accessed up 40 steep stone steps. It costs £13 to visit together with the Cathedral, and I would highly recommend both. The explanations of the development of stained glass from medieval times up to the present are very well presented and accompanied by excellent examples.
Tori Crawford
22.02.2022

Beautifully preserved pieces of art. Was a lovely way to spend the afternoon!
Claire Somerville
29.01.2022

Enjoyed our visit to the Stained Glass Museum. So much variety and beauty in the work. Well worth a visit!
Geoff King
15.10.2021

Very interesting museum with some very old pieces of medieval glass as well as more modern pieces. Access is via a steep stone staircase inside the museum, which adds to the atmosphere. Dog friendly too-our dog was very welcome, which we really appreciated. Excellent small museum.
Daniel Auger
10.10.2021

This museum is 'hidden' in Ely Cathedral, and has many examples of stained glass. I found it interesting and well worth the admission fee.
M T
12.09.2021

Absolutely stunning, the stained glass here is beyond amazing!

 

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