Family-Friendly Ipswich: 4 Days of Adventure on a Budget!

Explore family fun in Ipswich, where history meets entertainment for an unforgettable adventure.

19 July 2023

Ipswich, located in the scenic county of Suffolk, offers a delightful family-friendly trip filled with culture, history, and outdoor activities. Explore the picturesque waterfront and enjoy a boat trip along the River Orwell, or visit the stunning Christchurch Mansion and Ipswich Museum to immerse yourself in the town's rich heritage. With its charming parks, such as Holywells Park and Alexandra Park, there's no shortage of green spaces for the little ones to run around and have fun.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Ipswich's Heritage:

  • Discover the rich history of Ipswich at the Ipswich Museum, housing displays ranging from Egyptian artifacts to Anglo-Saxon treasures.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Ipswich Waterfront, lined with charming historic buildings and picturesque boats bobbing in the marina.
  • Pop into the Christchurch Mansion, a beautiful Tudor mansion showcasing an extensive art collection and delightful gardens.
  • Grab a bite at The Grazing Sheep, an adorable café bursting with character and serving delectable homemade cakes and delicious lunch options.
  • Enjoy a peaceful evening at the Novotel Ipswich Centre Hotel, offering cozy rooms, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a fantastic location near the town center.
Day 2

Adventures in Nature:

  • Embark on a thrilling family adventure at Jimmy's Farm, where you can meet friendly animals, explore nature trails, and even participate in farm activities.
  • Visit Holywells Park, a hidden gem bursting with tranquil gardens, whimsical play areas, and a beautiful maze.
  • Head to Suffolk Food Hall and treat your taste buds to local delicacies, artisan chocolates, and freshly baked goods.
  • Grab a quick and satisfying lunch at The Sausage Shop, boasting a variety of delicious sausages made in-house.
  • End the day with a relaxed evening at The Riverside Hotel, offering comfortable rooms and stunning river views.
Day 3

Cultural Delights:

  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene at The New Wolsey Theatre, showcasing a diverse range of productions and community projects.
  • Visit the Ipswich Art Gallery, boasting contemporary artworks and thought-provoking exhibitions.
  • Indulge in a scrumptious lunch at The Mad Hatter Café, a whimsical spot serving delicious sandwiches and an array of tempting cakes.
  • Explore the vast Christchurch Park, featuring beautiful gardens, tennis courts, and a peaceful arboretum.
  • Stay in style at the Salthouse Harbour Hotel, offering elegant rooms, stunning waterfront views, and a touch of luxury.
Day 4

Retail Therapy:

  • Spend the morning exploring the vibrant Ipswich Market, offering a myriad of stalls selling everything from fresh produce to unique crafts.
  • Browse the boutiques along the bustling Buttermarket Street, where you'll find fashionable clothing, quirky gifts, and enticing beauty products.
  • Grab a light lunch at Arlingtons Brasserie, a charming café known for its scrumptious sandwiches and delightful afternoon tea.
  • Experience the innovative Ipswich Town Trail, a self-guided walking tour uncovering the town's hidden gems and fascinating history.
  • Toast your last evening at Isaac's on the Quay, a cozy waterfront restaurant offering mouthwatering seafood and stunning sunset views.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Ipswich

Welcome to the town where it's impossible to pronounce the name correctly on the first try (hint: it rhymes with which) and the locals insist that their football team is pronounced Ipswitch.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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Ipswich in 5: Family Fun on a Budget!

Ipswich, a charming town in the United Kingdom, offers endless family-friendly activities and attractions. Start your trip with a visit to Ipswich Museum, where kids can explore fascinating exhibits and learn about ancient civilizations. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the picturesque Waterfront, dotted with vibrant cafes and riverfront parks, before ending the day at the Suffolk Food Hall, offering a delightful selection of local produce and artisanal goods.