Things To Do in Ipswich – Ipswich, one of England’s oldest towns, offers a dynamic blend of history, culture, and modern attractions, making it an exciting destination with plenty of things to do.
Situated in Suffolk, this vibrant town is steeped in history, evident in its stunning Tudor architecture, such as the Ancient House and Christchurch Mansion.
History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the mansion, which houses an impressive collection of art and period furnishings, while its surrounding Christchurch Park provides a perfect setting for a relaxing day out.
For art and culture lovers, the Ipswich Waterfront is a must-visit, where contemporary galleries like the Wolsey Art Gallery showcase local and international works.
The waterfront area is also dotted with cafes, restaurants, and bars, offering picturesque views along the River Orwell, making it a great spot for dining and leisure.
Ipswich’s Cornhill and Sailmakers Shopping Centre cater to those looking to indulge in some retail therapy, with a mix of high-street and independent stores.
The town’s cultural calendar is rich with events, from live performances at the New Wolsey Theatre to music festivals in the summer.
Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the tranquil beauty of Holywells Park or take a scenic walk along the River Gipping.
With its historic charm, diverse activities, and lively cultural scene, Ipswich is a town that offers something for everyone.
Things To Do in Ipswich
Christchurch Mansion
Location : Soane St, Ipswich IP4 2BE
Christchurch Mansion is a Tudor brick mansion house built in Ipswich. One of Suffolk’s most treasured buildings, this beautiful mansion is the jewel in the crown of Ipswich’s historic past.
Explore the period rooms from the Tudor kitchen to the Georgian saloon and the Victorian wing.
See the collection of art from Suffolk artists including the biggest collection of Thomas Gainsborough and John Constable paintings outside of London.
For more information about Christchurch Manor click here
Christchurch Park
Location : 33 Bolton Ln, Ipswich IP4 2BX
Christchurch Park hosts various facilities such as a children’s play area, tennis courts, table tennis, bowling greens and outdoor gym equipment.
The park also hosts many events throughout the year. The Wildlife and Education Rangers hold events such as nature walks, arts and crafts activities, storytelling and trails for children of all ages.
The park also welcomes some of Ipswich’s larger events, including Ipswich Music Day, the 11th Ipswich Scout Group’s Firework Display and the Remembrance Day ceremony.
For more information about Christchurch Park click here
Ipswich Museum
Location : High St, Ipswich IP1 3QH
Ipswich Museum is a registered museum of culture, history and natural heritage, located in a Grade II* listed building on High Street in Ipswich.
The Ipswich Museum is currently undergoing a redevelopment and will reopen in 2025 – so keep an eye on their website.
For more information about the Ipswich Museum click here
Anglia Indoor Karting
Location : 12 Farthing Rd, Ipswich IP1 5AP
Anglia Indoor Karting offers all-weather, age and ability karting with hairpins, flyover and tunnel, plus a small kids’ circuit.
It has been established for more than 30 years. During that time they have earned a reputation for providing the finest high-speed entertainment in the area.
For more information about Anglia Indoor Karting click here
Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park
Location : Pannington Hall Ln, Wherstead, Ipswich IP9 2AP
Visit our farm like no other. They are home to so many awesome animals, from farmyard favourites to the more exotic such as Zebra or Crocodiles.
You can visit The Lost Lands of the Tundra – home to rescued polar bear Ewa, Arctic Foxes and the UK’s largest pack of Arctic Wolves.
There is also a restaurant and a coffee shop.
For more information about Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park click here
Ipswich Waterfront
Location : Neptune Quay, Ipswich IP4 1QJ
The Ipswich Waterfront is a cultural and historically significant area surrounding the marina in the town of Ipswich.
The modern dock was constructed in 1842 and the area was a functioning dock up until the 1970s.
Today, the Ipswich Waterfront is one of the most recognisable areas of the town, popular for the many bars, cafes and bistros perched along the water’s edge.
For more information about Ipswich Waterfront click here
Baylham House Farm
Location : Mill Ln, Baylham, Ipswich IP6 8LG
Nestling in the Suffolk countryside, Baylham House Farm is the perfect destination for all.
It is a working livestock farm that specialises in native breeds that were once common but are now very rare.
The farm is popular with children and adults alike, with a wide range of activities for all the family.
For more information about Baylham House Farm click here
Alton Water Lake & River Orwell
Holbrook Rd, Stutton, Ipswich IP9 2RY
Alton Water is a manmade reservoir located on the Shotley peninsula. It is the largest in Suffolk, with a perimeter of over 8 miles.
Alton Water Park stretches across some 400 acres and is the perfect place to while away an hour or a whole day.
There is the eight-mile cross country cycling track or a range of watersports on offer. There is also the opportunity to enjoy a day of fishing.
For more information about Alton Water Lake click here
Jump In Adventure Park
Location : Anglia Retail Park, Bury Rd, Ipswich IP1 5QP
Jump In Adventure Park Ipswich is packed full of fun for all the family. The trampoline park includes wall-to-wall trampolines, giant airbag, battle beam, Wipeout, tumble track and more!
The Soft Play Park includes 18 slides, interactive and sports areas, imagination world and a stage for your budding actors.
For more information about Jump In Adventure Park click here
Pennikkity Pots Ceramics Cafe
Location : Crown Anchor Mews, Tower Ramparts, Ipswich IP1 3DJ
Call into this Ipswich town centre cafe, which has been an established ceramics painting studio for over ten years.
You can relax and enjoy an Italian coffee and a slice of yummy home-made cake or maybe a toastie whilst you create some amazing designs.
For more information about Pennikkity Pots click here
Looking for other places to visit, check out Suffolk Places To Visit