Ipswich, a historic county town in Suffolk, England, is a place worth exploring for its rich history, charming waterfront, cultural scene, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s no shortage of things to do in Ipswich. Here are the 15 best things to do in Ipswich that you shouldn’t miss.
Interesting facts about Ipswich:
- Ipswich is one of the oldest towns in England, with a history dating back over 1,000 years.
- The town was founded by the Saxons in the 7th century and was an important trading center during the Middle Ages.
- Ipswich played an important role in the wool trade during the 16th and 17th centuries and was also known for its shipbuilding industry.
- The town’s historic dockyard was once home to a thriving shipbuilding industry, with ships being built here for over 400 years.
- Ipswich is home to the oldest purpose-built cinema in the UK, the Electric Picture Palace, which opened in 1911.
- The town’s football club, Ipswich Town F.C., was founded in 1878 and has a rich history, having won the FA Cup and the UEFA Cup in the past.
- The town has a range of historic landmarks and museums, including Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich Museum, and St. Mary-le-Tower Church.
- Ipswich has a thriving cultural scene, with a range of music festivals, art exhibitions, and theatre shows throughout the year.
- The town is also known for its natural beauty, with the River Orwell and the surrounding countryside offering plenty of opportunities for walking and outdoor activities.
- Ipswich is home to a range of independent shops and restaurants, as well as high-street brands, making it a great place for shopping and dining.
Visit Christchurch Park
Christchurch Park is a 70-acre park located in the heart of Ipswich. The park offers plenty of green spaces for walking, picnicking, and relaxing. One of the highlights of the park is the Ipswich Museum, which is housed in a beautiful Victorian mansion. The museum has a range of exhibits, including artifacts from the Anglo-Saxon and Roman periods, as well as a natural history gallery and an art gallery. Another attraction in the park is the conservatory, which is home to a range of tropical plants and flowers. Christchurch Park is a must-visit attraction in Ipswich and is a great place to spend a day exploring.
Explore Ipswich Waterfront
Ipswich Waterfront is a bustling hub of activity and is one of the most popular attractions in Ipswich. The waterfront is home to a range of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. You can take a stroll along the marina and admire the boats or take a boat tour of the River Orwell. The waterfront is also home to a range of events throughout the year, including music festivals, markets, and art exhibitions. One of the highlights of the waterfront is the Ipswich Maritime Trust Museum, which is housed in a historic warehouse and showcases the history of the town’s port. Ipswich Waterfront is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Ipswich.
Tour Ipswich Museum
Ipswich Museum is a fascinating museum that is located in a beautiful Victorian mansion. The museum has a range of exhibits, including artifacts from the Roman, Anglo-Saxon, and Medieval periods. One of the highlights of the museum is the Woolly Mammoth exhibit, which showcases a fully articulated woolly mammoth skeleton that was found in Suffolk. The museum also has a natural history gallery, which has a range of taxidermy specimens and live animals, including snakes and spiders. The art gallery is also worth a visit, with a range of works by local artists on display.
Walk along the River Orwell
The River Orwell is a beautiful place to take a walk and enjoy the scenery. You can start your walk from Ipswich Waterfront and follow the river to Orwell Country Park, passing through picturesque villages and countryside along the way. The river is also home to a range of wildlife, including seals, otters, and a variety of birds. The walk is easy and suitable for all ages and abilities. The river walk is a must-do activity in Ipswich and is a great way to experience the town’s natural beauty.
See the Wolsey Art Gallery
The Wolsey Art Gallery is located in Christchurch Mansion and showcases a range of art from the Tudor period to the present day. The gallery has an impressive collection of works by John Constable, as well as pieces by other notable artists such as Thomas Gainsborough and J.M.W. Turner. The gallery also has a range of contemporary art exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing the work of local and national artists. The gallery is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in art and history.
Visit the Tudor House Museum
The Tudor House Museum is a well-preserved example of a 16th-century timber-framed house. The museum provides a fascinating insight into Tudor life, with rooms decorated in authentic Tudor style, including a kitchen, bedroom, and great hall. The museum also has a range of artifacts on display, including furniture, pottery, and textiles. The museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history and architecture.
Discover Ipswich Transport Museum
The Ipswich Transport Museum is a great place to explore the history of transport in Ips wich and its surroundings. The museum has a range of exhibits, including vintage buses, trams, and cars, as well as a model railway and a working blacksmith’s forge. The museum also has a collection of photographs and artifacts that showcase the history of transport in Ipswich. The museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in transport and engineering.
Enjoy the Regent Theatre
The Regent Theatre is a beautiful Art Deco-style theatre that hosts a range of shows and events throughout the year, from musicals and plays to comedy and concerts. The theatre has a seating capacity of over 1,500 and is known for its excellent acoustics and comfortable seating. The theatre has a range of bars and restaurants, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a show. The Regent Theatre is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the performing arts.
See a football match at Portman Road
Portman Road is home to Ipswich Town Football Club and is a great place to catch a football match. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 30,000 and is known for its lively atmosphere. The club has a rich history, having won the FA Cup and the UEFA Cup in the past. The stadium also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including music concerts and corporate events. Seeing a football match at Portman Road is a must-do activity for any sports fan.
Experience Holywells Park
Holywells Park is a beautiful park that offers plenty of activities for families and nature lovers. The park has a range of play areas for children, a walled garden, and a pond. You can also take a walk along the trails and admire the wildlife. The park is also home to a range of historic buildings, including the Stable Block and the Orangery. Holywells Park is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in nature and history.
Go to Ipswich Farmers’ Market
Ipswich Farmers’ Market is a popular attraction for foodies and anyone interested in locally sourced produce. The market is held on the first Sunday of every month and is a great place to find fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, and cheeses. The market also has a range of stalls selling handmade crafts and gifts, as well as street food and refreshments. The market is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in sustainable living and supporting local businesses.
Visit St. Mary-le-Tower Church
St. Mary-le-Tower Church is a beautiful church that dates back to the 15th century. The church has an impressive tower that offers stunning views of the town. The church also has a range of stained-glass windows and historic artifacts, including a brass eagle lectern and a carved pulpit. The church hosts a range of services and events throughout the year, including concerts and recitals. St. Mary-le-Tower Church is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in architecture and history.
Take a stroll in the Ancient House
The Ancient House is a historic building that dates back to the 15th century. The house is known for its ornate timberwork and carvings, and is now home to a gift shop and museum. The museum has a range of exhibits, including artifacts from the Tudor period, as well as a collection of historic toys and games. The Ancient House is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in Tudor history and architecture.
Go shopping in Sailmakers Shopping Centre
Sailmakers Shopping Centre is a modern shopping center that offers a range of shops and restaurants. You can find everything from high-street brands to boutique shops, as well as a range of food options. The shopping center also has a cinema and a range of events throughout the year, including fashion shows and live music. Sailmakers Shopping Centre is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in shopping and entertainment.
Enjoy a pint at The Dove Street Inn
The Dove Street Inn is a popular pub that offers a range of real ales and ciders, as well as live music and events. The pub has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a pint. The pub also has a range of board games and a dartboard, making it a great place to spend an evening with friends. The Dove Street Inn is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in trying local ales and experiencing the pub culture in Ipswich.
Conclusion
Ipswich is a town with a rich history and plenty of attractions for visitors. From exploring the historic landmarks and museums to enjoying the natural beauty and cultural scene, there’s no shortage of things to do in Ipswich. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, make sure to check out these 15 best things to do in Ipswich.
FAQs
What is Ipswich known for?
Ipswich is known for its rich history, charming waterfront, cultural scene, and natural beauty.
Is Ipswich a good place to visit?
Yes, Ipswich is a great place to visit for its range of attractions and beautiful surroundings.
What are the best things to do in Ipswich?
The best things to do in Ipswich include visiting Christchurch Park, exploring Ipswich Waterfront, touring Ipswich Museum, walking along the River Orwell, and seeing the Wolsey Art Gallery.
When is Ipswich Farmers’ Market held?
Ipswich Farmers’ Market is held on the first Sunday of every month.
Where can I find locally sourced produce in Ipswich?
You can find locally sourced produce at Ipswich Farmers’ Market and at a range of shops and restaurants in the town.
