Welcome to Ely Place!
Home to one of the oldest Catholic churches in the UK, one of London’s oldest pubs and now, Purely Diamonds.
Ely Place is a charming cul-de-sac located in the heart of London and can be found just a stone’s throw from Hatton Garden, the centre of London’s diamond and jewellery trade. With a rich history, dating back to the medieval era, it has been home to several notable residents throughout the centuries.
Ely Place
The street takes its name from Ely Palace, which was built in the 13th century as a London residence for the Bishop of Ely. At the time, Ely was a powerful diocese in the region and the palace was considered to be one of the most prestigious buildings in London. It was frequently used as a venue for lavish banquets and other social events.
The Gatehouse
Today, only a few remnants of the original palace remain, including the 15th-century gatehouse, which stands at the entrance to Ely Place – where our very own beadles guard the gates!
The street still retains much of its historical charm and is home to a number of notable buildings, including St Etheldreda’s Church, which was built in the 13th century and is one of the oldest Catholic churches in England. Hidden away between Ely Place and Hatton Garden is the Ye Olde Mitre pub – which dates back to 1546, which once famously housed a cherry tree where Queen Elizabeth I danced around with Sir Christopher Hatton.
In recent years, Ely Place has become a popular destination for visitors to London who are interested in history and architecture and in 2023, became our new home. The Purely Diamonds’ showroom offers visitors a unique experience – an elegant and inviting by-appointment showroom located in a beautiful, Georgian building.
29 Ely Place
The new home of Purely Diamonds in London.