This historic maritime town is thriving with activities, with an exciting range of retail, eateries and activities to discover. The town is home to gorgeous leafy parks and a stunning waterfront, making it a great place for a getaway.
The incredible Suffolk countryside is on the doorstep of Ipswich, where there are some beautiful unspoiled green places to explore. Suffolk Coast and Heaths is a naturally stunning spot, earning its title of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Dedham Vale is the ideal location for a brisk walk and be sure to pack a picnic to have amongst the trees. In the town centre, Christchurch Park is a wonderfully idyllic spot to soak in the sun. Look out for Mabel, the resident tawny owl.
In town, take a stroll down the waterfront and take in the hustle-and-bustle of the marine life. Boat rides along the River Orwell are available from multiple businesses along the front and this makes for the perfect leisurely way to spend an afternoon. Orwell Lady River Trips even offer an afternoon tea to enjoy with the river views.
As the oldest Anglo-Saxon town in England, there is lots of history to discover. Christchurch Mansion is a beautiful Tudor home with lavishly decorated rooms and the Wosley Art Gallery. The heritage of the town can be discovered at the Ipswich Museum. Children will love visiting the woolly mammoth, rhino and giraffe.
A diverse range of eateries await in town, ranging from cosy pubs to fine dining restaurants. Enjoy a seasonal meal by the river at Bistro On The Quay, which also serves a great selection of wines. Cult Café is another riverside spot, which celebrates local produce and local talent with live bands playing frequently. For a hearty barbeque in a lovely rooftop garden, visit The Forge Kitchen.
For a cosy breakfast and great coffee, Applaud Coffee is the place to visit. A homely interior and a secluded garden create a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere. Have a cake at the oldest coffee house in town, that being Pickwicks. There’s a quaint church courtyard in which visitors can enjoy an afternoon tea. For a true vintage experience, travel back to the 1940s for tea and cake at The Blitz Tearooms.
Take your bucket and spade for a trip to the beach at Felixstowe, a harbour town with plenty of traditional seaside activities. Ocean Boulevard Fun Park has fun activities for all the family, including rides and bumper cars. Take a walk along the pier and enjoy the view of the whole coast.
Hadleigh is an ancient market town only nine miles away, home to quaint English pubs and traditional English cottage-style architecture. Broom Hill is a nature reserve perfect for a light stroll, as is the RSPB site Wolves Wood.
A 45-minute drive away is Thetford Forest, a lush green forest with lots of trails to allow you to easily discover the incredible nature. For active visitors, try out the Go Ape site, or even hire a bike and cycle along the trails. There’s also an archery site as well as forest segways and a café to have lunch in after a day exploring.
North of England
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