Top ten things to do in Ipswich

1. EXPLORE IPSWICH ON FOOT

The best way to get a feel for a place is to take a guided walk with a qualified guide. Learn about the history of the town and hear about some of the characters who have made their mark over the centuries. Don’t miss the statue of ‘Grandma’ which is based on the character created by cartoonist Ronald “Carl” Giles. Rather touchingly, ‘Grandma’ looks up at the office window where Giles worked for many years, as if waiting for him to peer out and wave! Regular walks take place from May to September.

Giles' Grandma Statue

2. SAIL DOWN THE RIVER ORWELL AND SAVOUR THE VIEWS

Make sure a trip along the beautiful River Orwell is at the top of your ‘to do’ list. There are several options which start from the bustling marina at the Ipswich Waterfront. The scenery changes dramatically as you leave Ipswich, sail under the elegant Orwell Bridge and drift peacefully along the river, passing by the picturesque Shotley Peninsula.

Cruises are available from a variety of operators and include brunch or afternoon tea trips, birdwatching expeditions, candlelit supper cruises and more.

3. EXPLORE THE ARTWORKS AT CHRISTCHURCH MANSION

Built in the 16th century as a gentleman’s town residence, Christchurch Mansion now houses an eclectic range of displays, including a wonderful collection of work by artists Thomas Gainsborough and John Constable. The Wolsey Art Gallery, a large room within the mansion, also has a display of Constable’s possessions, including his wife Maria’s wedding band and his paint brushes and palette. Christchurch Mansion feels huge inside with layers of different rooms and collections, a striking china and glass gallery and a fascinating collection of Victorian toys and games. Entry to the museum is free and many events take place in the grounds throughout the year.

4. TAKE A STROLL IN ONE OF THE TOWN’S GLORIOUS PARKS

Ipswich has some lovely parks both within the town itself and on the outskirts. They are sanctuaries for wildlife and perfect for taking a stroll along their miles of footpaths and around their pretty lakes. Some offer beautiful views (Orwell Park on the banks of the River Orwell has stunning views along the river) others put on events throughout the year and all of them offer a tranquil space for a few hours of relaxation.

5. WHILE AWAY AN EVENING ON THE IPSWICH WATERFRONT

The vibrant waterfront is a buzzing mix of cafes, restaurants, luxury apartments, the impressive Suffolk University building and The Salthouse boutique hotel. Spend a pleasant evening here watching the yachts bob gently on the water, indulge in some people-watching and listen to live music in one of the bars.

Relax at a bar along the waterfront

6. TAKE A TRIP TO THE THEATRE

If you fancy an evening of cultural entertainment, there is plenty of choice in Ipswich. If your preference is for theatre, live music or comedy, there is a range of venues offering exciting events.

The 400 seater New Wolsey Theatre is central to cultural life in Suffolk and is host to many dynamic new productions. Some of these are written and produced in-house and other pieces are collaborations or on tour from London and further afield.

7. DELIGHT IN DANCE AT JERWOOD DANCE HOUSE

If you are in the mood for music and dance, take in a performance at Jerwood Dance House, on the waterfront. There’s an innovative programme of modern dance from internationally renowned choreographers and dancers, with productions which will appeal to both adults and children.

8. TASTE YOUR WAY AROUND IPSWICH

Suffolk is known as #TheFoodieCounty and Ipswich is a good place to indulge the tastebuds. Just outside of the town, at the top end of the Shotley Peninsula, is the Suffolk Food Hall.

A smorgasbord of tasty treats, the ‘champion of champions for local food’ showcases some of the best local produce the county has to offer: meat from their own Red Poll cows and pigs; locally grown vegetables and bread which is baked on site every morning.

Within the town is a wide choice of world foods to enjoy along with traditional pubs and restaurants. Try modern British cuisine at Aurora on the waterfront, Chinese cuisine at Trongs and Lebanese and Moroccan dishes at Cassablanca. The list of great places to experience wonderful food in and around Ipswich is endless.

The Cook House at the Suffolk Food Hall with amazing views over the River Orwell

9. VISIT JIMMY’S FARM AND WILDLIFE ZOO

A few miles from Ipswich is Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Zoo, which first appeared on our TV screens over 15 years ago. From humble beginnings, the farm has developed into a top attraction with an award-winning restaurant, a fabulous farm shop and other stores, nature trail and butterfly house (opening 2022). There are several festivals here throughout the year, celebrating science, food, drink and music.

Jimmy with his piglets at Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Zoo

10. SHOP FOR A SUFFOLK SOUVENIR

It’s always nice to take home a reminder of an enjoyable holiday or day out. There are some fabulous independent shops tucked away from the main high street in Ipswich too. The Saints is full of boutiques and interesting shops and is a great place to hunt down some unusual treasures. There’s also a twice yearly market that pops up in St Peter’s Street with craft and vintage stalls a-plenty and regular farmers’ markets too.

Ipswich Farmers’ Markets are popular events in the town