Oliver Cromwell’s House in Ely – the former home of the Lord Protector - is being put forward for Visit England’s ‘Hidden Gem’ accolade.

The award from Visit England aims to acknowledge smaller attractions and raise their profile. There will be a further assessment of the house in the spring and the venue will find out if it has won in the summer.

Cromwell is believed to have moved into the house, in St Mary’s Street, in 1636 having inherited it from an uncle.

He remained in Ely for 10 years before he left with his family to pursue his career in Westminster.

Now, the house is used as Ely’s Tourist Information Centre as well as being an attraction in its own right.

Councillor Richard Hobbs, chairman of commercial services committee at East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “It always amazes me when I speak to some residents in Ely and they tell me they haven’t visited Oliver Cromwell House.

“I simply look at them aghast that they could miss out on such a wonderful experience. The venue oozes history as it recreates life in the 17th century to educate and explain the civil war transformed the country.

“It does not surprise me that the attraction has been nominated for the ‘Hidden Gem’ award – the staff and guides do a great job and I wish them all the best for the summer.”

For more information on Oliver Cromwell House call 01353 662062 or www.visitely.org.uk.