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

Discover the charm of Ipswich without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Discovering Ipswich

Start your day at the Ipswich Tourist Information Centre to gather information and maps.
Explore the Ipswich Waterfront with a walk along the marina and admire the traditional and modern architecture.
Visit the Ipswich Museum for a journey through history with exhibits showcasing the region's past.
Enjoy a meal at the Green Room Café, known for their locally sourced and sustainable ingredients.
End your day by strolling through the Christchurch Park, which has beautiful gardens and even a mansion.
Stay at the Premier Inn Ipswich North hotel for a budget-friendly option.

Day 2

A Day in the Countryside

Take a train to the nearby village of Dedham and enjoy a scenic walk along the River Stour.
Visit the Dedham Art & Craft Centre to browse unique handmade gifts and souvenirs.
Stop for a traditional pub lunch at the Sun Inn, which has been serving since the 15th century.
Visit the National Trust's Flatford Mill, which was famously painted by John Constable.
End your day with a pint at the Red Lion pub, which also offers great live music.

Day 3

Exploring Ancient Ruins

Begin your day at the ancient Roman Villa at Castle Hill, an excavation site containing impressive Roman mosaics.
Visit the beautiful medieval St. Mary le Tower Church, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
Lunch at The Dove Street Inn, an atmospheric pub in the heart of Ipswich that offers local ale and delicious comfort foods.
Stroll around the ruins of the ancient Holywells Park Mansion and admire the tranquil scenery.
Finish your day with dinner at Trongs, a popular Chinese restaurant serving authentic and delicious cuisine.

Day 4

Shopping and Culture

Start your day at the Sailmakers Shopping Centre for some retail therapy and a wide selection of stores.
Visit the Ipswich Art Gallery, which showcases contemporary art and also exhibits art from the past.
Lunch at The Grazing Sheep, a quirky café offering homemade cakes and scrumptious sandwiches.
Visit the Ipswich Transport Museum, which is full of vintage buses and cars.
End your day at the Regent Theatre, which hosts a variety of shows, from musicals to dramas.
Stay at the Ibis Ipswich Centre hotel for a budget option in a central location.

Day 5

A Day by the Coast

Take a train to Felixstowe, a charming seaside town on the coast.
Stroll along the sandy beach, famous for its vast stretches of sand and stunning sea views.
Visit the Seafront Gardens, which are beautifully decorated with colourful flowers and greenery.
Enjoy delicious fish and chips at The Alex Cafe Bar, a popular spot for quality pub classics.
End your day by relaxing at the Spa Pavilion Theatre, which offers stunning seaside views and musical or theatre performances.

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.