The Lady Chapel at Ely is the largest of any British Cathedral. They were added to many churches and cathedrals during the 13th and 14th centuries to honour the Virgin Mary. When completed in 1349 it would have been adorned with stained glass windows and painted statues. Such religious decoration were destroyed during the Reformation in 1539.

The Norman-built Ely Catherdral, with its 14th century Octagon tower and unique wooden lantern, is regarded as one of the wonders of the medieval world.