Ipswich Hotels

History

While the area around Ipswich was an important one during the Roman period, it wasn't until the Anglo Saxon period of the 7th and 8th century that the town took shape around what today is known as Ipswich Dock. During this time the area was an important port for North Sea trade and communication between East Anglia and the continent. The famous ship-burial at nearby Sutton Hoo is most likely the grave of King Rædwald. Ipwich was eventually granted its own town charter in 1200 by King John. In the centuries following this, the town became famed for its merchants.

Famous figures

Cardinal Thomas Wolsey was born in Ipswich and remains one of the town's most well known historical figures. The famous painter, Thomas Gainsborough, lived and worked in Ipswich during the 18th century. In the 19th century Charles Dickens stayed in Ipswich and also used it for the setting of The Pickwick Papers. Lord Nelson also lived in Ipswich, after moving there with Lady Nelson in 1797.

Shopping

Contemporary Ipswich is a shopper's paradise. The Buttermarket Centre and Tower Ramparts Centre both offer a range of outlets, while St Peters and St Nicholas Street has an impressive selection of boutique shops, cafés and watering holes. Queen Street and Westgate Street are the place to go for big brands such as Debenhams, Next, H&M and TopShop.

The Waterfront

When the sun sets, Ipswich's Waterfront comes to life. The lights of the boats on the harbour water serve as a beautiful backdrop for strolls along the waterfront, before ducking in to one of the area's many bars and restaurants. There are also a number of river cruises available on the resident boats such as Sailing Barge Victor and the Orwell Lady.

Sutton Hoo

Arguably the most famous archaeological site in Britain, Sutton Hoo is the site of two 6th and 7th-century burial grounds. The wealth of Anglo Saxon artefacts, mainly held by the British Museum, are generally thought to be linked to the burial of King Rædwald, the ruler of the East Angles. The find was notable due to the sheer volume of preserved material that had been left relatively undisturbed. A visitor's centre on the site provides a detailed account of the history surrounding the discovery.

Museums and Galleries

Ipswich is home to a number of excellent museums detailing the heritage of the town. These include the wartime history of Clifford Road Air Raid Shelter Museum, The Ipswich Transport Museum, Norfolk And Suffolk Aviation Museum and the town's main museum, Ipswich Museum, which features a towering stuffed giraffe. In terms of galleries there is the Waterfront Gallery, the Town Hall Galleries and Ipswich Art School.

Party and nightlife in Ipswich

On the Norfolk coast, Ipswich offers abundant choices for those seeking a vibrant nightlife. Night time activities encompass a diverse range of tastes, from sophisticated bars, multifaceted night clubs and classic discos, to iconic concert and party venues.

Certain streets have gained a reputation for a lively atmosphere as nightfall descends. The prime hotspot in Ipswich is Cardinal Park, a vibrant shopping centre filled with a range of restaurants and a cinema. It is known amongst locals as a nucleus of nighttime activity.

In terms of trending nightclubs, Pulse Ipswich stands out. Situated in Coachmans Court, this club boasts a varied selection of music styles which cater to all tastes. Featuring guest DJs, it is an essential stop for dance enthusiasts. It offers an extensive selection of beverages to complement the lively music. For those who prefer a classic experience, Revolution Ipswich, located at Old Cattle Market in the heart of Ipswich, offers an engaging dancefloor for club aficionados. This spot offers multiple rooms, each playing different music genres, serving to provide an environment that encourages mingling amid variety. The inclusive atmosphere ensures a more relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Perhaps more inclined towards the cultural scene, the Regent Theatre garners the attention of concert-goers and entertainment seekers. As one of the largest theatres in East England, it hosts a diverse range of performances and events. Its historic architecture coupled with the cutting-edge sound and light systems make it an integral part of the night scene in Ipswich.

Additionally, those with a preference for a quieter evening may want to consider the Steamboat Tavern or the Cock and Pye pub. Both establishments offer traditional pub atmosphere with the Steamboat Tavern noted for its live folk and jazz nights.

The regions surrounding Suffolk, particularly the lively university city of Norwich, are also renowned for their vibrant nightlife. Areas like the Prince of Wales Road in Norwich and the Buttermarket in Ipswich are popular amongst visitors and locals alike for their diverse array of nightclubs, late-night eateries, and bars.

Go shopping in Ipswich

A visit to Ipswich offers a grand opportunity to indulge in some retail therapy. The shopping experience here is a diverse one, with a blend of big-name stores, designer labels, independent boutiques and bustling markets, all nestled in the heart of this historic town.

In the town centre, Sailmakers Shopping Centre (previously known as the Tower Ramparts) hosts a myriad of key retail outlets and restaurants, alongside the Buttermarket Centre. Nearby Elm Street and Westgate Street serve as a hub of activity where the latest fashion trends converge. While a walk along St Peter's Street will reveal an impressive array of independently owned boutiques and gift shops that fuse globally recognised brands with local craftsmanship.

For more affordable shopping ventures, journeying beyond the town centre is advisable. Visit the Anglia Retail Park, situated on the outskirts of Ipswich, which houses a mixture of lifestyle and discount stores that cater to diverse preferences and budgets.

When it comes to shopping for souvenirs, the concept of made-in-Ipswich goods becomes appealing. Regular markets on Princes Street, on the Cornhill and in Christchurch Park host stalls where various arts, crafts, and fresh local produce can be procured and sampled. Signature products like Suffolk Gold cheese, locally brewed beers and gins as well as traditional Red Poll beef are worth considering for their unique provincial significance.

For sports enthusiasts, Ipswich Town football club memorabilia is an ideal souvenir. While for art lovers, the works from local artists make for unique, personal keepsakes.