2 Days of Family Fun: Exploring Ipswich's Hidden Gems!

Discover family fun in Ipswich, where history and adventure collide!

19 July 2023

Ipswich, located on the scenic eastern coast of England, is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. This historic town offers a perfect blend of rich cultural heritage and modern attractions that will engage both parents and children. Families can explore the impressive Ipswich Waterfront, visit interactive museums like Ipswich Museum, and indulge in outdoor adventures at Holywells Park or Suffolk Food Hall.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering Ipswich's Quirky Charms!

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Grazing Sheep, a charming café serving delicious locally sourced goodies.
  • Head to the Ipswich Waterfront and take a leisurely stroll along the marina, admiring the bobbing boats and dreaming of your own high seas adventure.
  • Visit the Ipswich Museum, where you can wander through exhibits filled with Egyptian treasures, prehistoric artifacts, and even a rather curious giant woolly mammoth.
  • Grab a quick bite at The Fudge Cottage, a delightful little shop offering an array of mouthwatering homemade fudge flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
  • Immerse yourself in history at Christchurch Mansion, a stunning Tudor mansion nestled in Christchurch Park. Take a guided tour and marvel at the exquisite art collection as you pretend to be a real-life protagonist in a Jane Austen novel.
  • End the day with a scrumptious dinner at The Greyhound, a cozy pub serving traditional British fare with a modern twist. Don't forget to sample their award-winning locally brewed ales!
Day 2

Adventures Await in Ipswich!

  • Begin your day with a visit to Ipswich Transport Museum, a hidden gem where you can marvel at vintage cars, trams, and buses from a bygone era.
  • Take a leisurely boat trip along the River Orwell, soaking in the idyllic countryside scenery and hoping to spot a cheeky seal or two.
  • Indulge in a delightful lunch at Pump Street Bakery, a quirky spot that bakes the most heavenly artisan bread, pastries, and sandwiches in town. Their sourdough is to die for!
  • Get your creative juices flowing at Ipswich Art School Gallery, a contemporary art space exhibiting thought-provoking works by local and international artists.
  • Unleash your inner child at Holywells Park, a whimsical green oasis complete with wooded areas, charming ponds, and even a hidden grotto. Pack a picnic and let the little ones frolic in the playground or fly kites on the vast open fields.
  • Finish your Ipswich adventure with a dinner at The Forge Kitchen, a trendy restaurant known for its fusion cuisine. From Thai tacos to Moroccan-inspired lamb, this culinary gem will leave your taste buds buzzing with delight.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Ipswich, United Kingdom by plane is to fly into London Stansted Airport and then take the Stansted Express train to Ipswich. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and the train station is located directly at the airport.

Car

The best way to get to Ipswich, United Kingdom by car is to take the A12 motorway from London. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Train

The best way to get to Ipswich, United Kingdom by train is to take a direct train from London Liverpool Street Station to Ipswich. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and there are several departures per hour throughout the day.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Ipswich, United Kingdom by boat, however, there is a ferry service from Harwich International Port, which is approximately 20 miles away. From Harwich, you can then take a train or bus to Ipswich.

Bus

The best way to get to Ipswich, United Kingdom by bus is to take the National Express coach service from London Victoria Coach Station to Ipswich. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and there are several departures per day.

More travel plans

5 Days of Coastal Charm: Ipswich, UK

Ipswich, a historic port town in Suffolk, offers a window into England's cultural and architectural past. Visitors can explore the stunning Tudor architecture at Christchurch Mansion or delve into the town's maritime heritage at the Ipswich Waterfront. Furthermore, the town's vibrant art galleries, shops, and eateries provide ample opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Affordable and Fun: 4 Days in Historic Ipswich

Discover the historic town of Ipswich with limited funds. Visit the ancient Christchurch Mansion and explore its art collection, stroll around the picturesque waterfront and witness the award-winning marina, eat at some of the town's best budget-friendly restaurants and cafes for an authentic English experience. Don't forget to take a walk in the beautiful parks like Christchurch Park for a refreshing break.

Ipswich, UK in 2 Fun-Filled Days!

As a tourist in Ipswich, United Kingdom, visitors can explore the historic buildings and architecture of the town, including the 12th-century Norman castle and the medieval St. Mary-le-Tower Church. The Ipswich Waterfront area is also worth exploring, with its galleries, museums, restaurants, and cafes, as well as the opportunity to take a boat ride on the River Orwell. For nature enthusiasts, there are numerous parks and green spaces in Ipswich, such as Christchurch Park and Holywells Park, where visitors can hike, bike, and relax amid lovely scenery.

Ipswich on a Budget: The Ultimate 5-Day Adventure!

For budget travelers, Ipswich offers plenty of affordable accommodation options, including budget hotels and hostels. Explore the town's rich history and architecture by taking a self-guided walking tour of the city center, which includes many free-to-enter museums and galleries. Don't forget to sample the local cuisine in the area's many pubs and restaurants, which offer classic Britsh dishes at reasonable prices.