Things to do in Ipswich

Ipswich is the longest permanently settled town in the country, and offers plenty of historic landmarks within the old town centre. Check out our guide to the best historical sightseeing spots, as well as the parks and top attractions across town.

Explore Ipswich’s rich history and culture with the beautiful art selection within Tudor stately home Christchurch Mansion. And make sure you tune into one of the frequent events on the town’s calendar – from Viking battle ships to tribute bands galore.

It’s time to get active and enjoy the Suffolk countryside – with everything from all-weather skiing, boating and watersports, to rally karting on offer. But don’t worry, there are also plenty of options to keep all ages entertained if the weather turns wet.

From a stuffed life-size woolly mammoth (nicknamed ‘Wool I am’!) to an amazing collection of traditional transport, trams and trains, Ipswich’s museums offer plenty to explore. Take a journey through time from the Tudor Christchurch Mansion to the Victorian Ipswich museum.

The bustling theatre scene in Ipswich is diverse and unique, from dramatics depicting local murder tales to Rock ‘n’ Roll pantos. With performances across five stages, as well as open air theatre in the woods, you’re sure to find something to suit.

Ipswich’s live music scene offers everything from jazz festivals, classic pub open-mic nights or Sunday afternoon tunes by the waterfront. Sports fans will have plenty to keep them entertained too, from football to stock car racing meets.

Enjoy fresh sushi, Mediterranean mezze or gigantic burgers at one of Ipswich’s many restaurants, or head to one of the quaint cafés or casual bistros for a light bite and warming brew.

If you’re looking for home brewed beer, a boutique gin selection or classy cocktail, Ipswich has something to offer. The waterfront is always buzzing, and is a great place to start your night out in Ipswich.

Head into the centre of Ipswich for a spot of shopping, with big name stores and quirky boutiques alike to be found along the historic streets, as well as the central Buttermarket Centre. We bet you can’t find another Lakeland shop within a Grade I listed building!

As home to Ipswich Town F.C., as well as offering a schedule of music and varied sporting events, Portman Road stadium is always busy. It’s easy to support The Blues in their home games, with the stadium an easy stroll from Ipswich’s town centre.

Of course a visit to an English town wouldn’t be complete without sampling a fair few public houses. Whether you’re looking for live music, the best pub grub or the sunniest beer garden, we’ve got you covered with our lowdown of the best pubs in Ipswich.

Nestled within East Anglia, Ipswich offers a medieval town, water-based activities and plenty of Suffolk countryside to explore. Easily reached by train (with direct connections to London Liverpool Street), coach connections all over the country and with two international airports nearby, it couldn’t be easier to enjoy a break in Ipswich.