Ipswich on a Budget: Culture, Nature & History

Experience historic Ipswich without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Ipswich, located in East Anglia, is a charming town with plenty of affordable attractions for budget travellers. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the free Ipswich Museum, or spend a day at the beautiful Christchurch Park. Accommodation is also reasonably priced, with options including hostels, budget hotels, and self-catering apartments.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Explore the Historic Heart of Ipswich

  • Begin the day with a stroll through Christchurch Park, a beautiful park in the heart of Ipswich.
  • Visit the Ipswich Museum to learn about the town's history and view collections of natural history, art, and archaeology.
  • Walk along the Waterfront to see the marina and admire the historic buildings, including the Old Custom House and the Dance East building.
  • Have lunch at The Grazing Sheep, a cozy cafe offering delicious homemade soups, sandwiches, and cakes.
  • Stop by St. Mary-le-Tower Church, an iconic landmark and the largest parish church in Ipswich.
  • End the day by having dinner at The Golden Lion, an old-fashioned pub serving traditional British cuisine.
  • Hotel recommendation: The Carlton Hotel, a budget-friendly option located a short walk from the city center.
Day 2

Discover the Natural Beauty of Ipswich

  • Take a short drive to Orwell Country Park, a stunning nature reserve with beautiful views of the River Orwell.
  • If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard from Kayak Adventures Ipswich and explore the river.
  • Walk through the Holywells Park to admire the beautiful gardens and Victorian-era buildings.
  • Have lunch at The Gardeners Arms, a cozy pub with a charming garden.
  • Head to Felixstowe Beach for a relaxing afternoon by the sea.
  • End the day at The Spread Eagle, a traditional pub with a great selection of real ales and hearty pub fare.
Day 3

Arts and Culture in Ipswich

  • Visit the Ipswich Art Gallery to see a collection of contemporary art and temporary exhibitions.
  • Take a tour of the New Wolsey Theatre, a popular venue for theatre productions and live music.
  • Explore the ancient ruins of the Ipswich Priory, a beautiful and tranquil spot in the city.
  • Have lunch at the Regatta Restaurant, a stylish eatery offering a range of international cuisine.
  • Visit the Ipswich Transport Museum to see a collection of vintage vehicles and learn about the history of transportation in Ipswich.
  • End your trip at The Fat Cat Pub, a cozy pub serving cask ales and delicious pub snacks.
  • Hotel recommendation: The Bridge Guest House, a charming B&B located in the city center and near many of Ipswich's main attractions.

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.

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