Located by the scenic River Orwell, Ipswich offers a vibrant art scene, culture, and shopping along with the serenity of Suffolk’s spectacular coast and countryside. A trip to this popular holiday destination is incomplete without exploring the town’s harbour area, which is brimming with eateries and shops. Dine al fresco by the water’s edge and watch the sunset beyond the boats and yachts on the marina. Visit the Old Customs House, a beautifully restored waterfront building built in 1845, to learn about Ipswich's maritime history as one of England’s most vital ports, or go to the Ipswich Museum to view Anglo-Saxon relics, a zoological collection, and other exhibits. Head to Tavern, the main high street, to enjoy shopping at top-end brand outlets, boutiques, and the Buttermarket shopping centre. For deals on Ipswich hotels, use Opodo's powerful and easy-to-use search engine. Filter your results by travel dates and number of rooms and travellers to find the most suitable hotels at the best prices, and make your booking easily online.
Christchurch Park, north of the town centre, is among Ipswich's top attractions. Stay at a hotel nearby to explore the exotic trees at the 70-acre green oasis, as well as the onsite Christchurch Mansion, which features a Tudor kitchen, toys from the Victorian period, and paintings by renowned artists. Holywells Park, under 2 miles away, is another patch of greenery to enjoy during your stay at an Ipswich hotel. Walk around the ponds and woodlands, have a cup of tea at the Stable Café, and let the children discover the playground.
If you're interested in architecture, check out the 20th-century Willis Building, one of the first structures designed by Norman Foster. The Grade-I-listed building, completed in 1975, is considered an early example of modern environment-friendly architecture. At Eastgate, you can enjoy touring shows and comedy routines at the Ipswich Regent, and stop by at the county library to attend a workshop or two. At Ipswich's waterfront, relax by the water's edge, catch an international dance performance at DanceEast, or cruise on the Orwell River. For a day trip out of town, venture to the Shotley Peninsula to enjoy gorgeous river views, sailing, walking trails, and delectable local food.
Book a hotel in the centre of Ipswich if you're planning on shopping. Lined with independent boutiques and high-street fashion shops, the neighbourhood is also home to historic buildings such as the Ipswich Town Hall and the Ancient House. Close by is the 700-year-old Ipswich Farmer’s Market, which sells everything from household goods, clothes, and souvenirs to Suffolk chutneys, jams, and locally made drinks.
One of Ipswich's most popular areas to stay in for travellers is the iconic waterfront, a lively place full of restaurants, cafés, and entertainment venues. Walk along the lovely paved promenade, discover world-class eateries set in old warehouses, or join boat trips and candlelit supper cruises from the quay. Enjoy views of the Orwell and quick access to the Ipswich Train Station while staying at hotels on the riverside. Culture lovers should look for offers on hotels close to the New Wolsey Theatre, a not-for-profit performance venue that hosts a diverse range of events such as the Ipswich Jazz Festival and the Pulse Festival. For the best cheap hotels in Ipswich during these events, book your accommodations in advance.