Ipswich

1 Arcade Street, IpswichIP1 1EX

Tucked into a historic Georgian townhouse in the heart of Ipswich, Arcade Street Tavern has been serving up craft beer heaven since 2014. Here, you’ll find over 120 beers that change faster than you can say "just one more," two bars to keep the crowd flowing, and a courtyard that’s perfect for those "I should probably go home but..." moments. A favourite among beer geeks, casual drinkers, and anyone who appreciates a proper pint in stylish surroundings, this quirky multi-roomed gem offers traditional wooden interiors that feel like stepping into a cosier, better-stocked version of your mate’s dream garage. The selection of imported bottled beers could keep you exploring for years, while the ever-changing cask ales ensure there’s always something new to try. Unlike those soulless chains where the beer tastes like it’s been sitting since the last World Cup, Arcade Street Tavern treats every brew like a work of art. The staff know their hops, the atmosphere buzzes with the right kind of energy, and the only thing better than the beer is the company you’ll find yourself in. Whether you’re settling into the courtyard with a flight of new arrivals, debating the merits of the latest craft IPA, or just enjoying the kind of evening that makes you glad you discovered this hidden gem, this is a pub that takes its beer seriously, without ever taking itself too seriously. Local Tip: Ask about the weekly new arrivals. You’ll leave with a new favourite and a lighter wallet.

25 Belstead RoadIP2 8AU

Welcome to Babewyn Heightz, a little corner of the world where the welcome is warm, the grill is hot, and there’s always room for one more around the table. We believe the best days are the ones spent with good friends, good food, a cold beer in hand, and nowhere more important to be. If you’ve arrived hungry, you’re in exactly the right place. If you’ve arrived thirsty, we’re ready for that too. And if you’ve come looking for good company, music, and a bit of a party, then make yourself at home. At Babewyn Heightz, food is never just food. It’s the reason people gather, the excuse to bring out another chair, and the centrepiece of every good get-together. The BBQ is our favourite kind of kitchen: open air, lively, and just smoky enough to make everyone wander over and ask what’s cooking. There might be sizzling sausages, burgers on the grill, chicken taking its time over the coals, and vegetables that somehow taste better with a little char on them. There’ll be sauces, salads, sides, and someone insisting that their special marinade is the one that makes the whole meal. We won’t argue. We’ll happily try another helping and let the experts decide. A Babewyn Heightz BBQ is not a quick affair. The first delicious smells drifting across the garden are only the beginning. Someone will arrive early to “help,” which usually means keeping the cook company and checking that the drinks are cold. Someone else will appear just as the first food comes off the grill, claiming they were nearby and couldn’t resist the aroma. Before long, the table is full, the plates are piled high, and the conversation is in full swing. There’s always enough for one more guest, one more helping, and one more round of whatever everyone is drinking. We may not know exactly how many people are coming, but we do know there’ll be plenty to eat. The beer is part of the tradition, too. We like it cold, plentiful, and enjoyed in good company. There’s no need for anyone to rush; the evening will unfold at its own pace. One drink leads to a story, a story leads to a laugh, and a laugh brings another friend over to hear what they missed. Someone will have a favourite beer and be happy to explain why it’s the best. Someone else will be perfectly content with whatever’s in the cooler. Around here, the important thing is that your glass is never lonely and that everyone has something they enjoy. As the food comes off the BBQ and the daylight begins to soften, the music finds its place in the evening. It might start with a few easy favourites playing in the background, just loud enough to set the mood. Then somebody hears a song they love and turns it up. Before long, people are singing along, tapping their feet, and debating which track should come next. There are always different tastes in music, and that’s part of the fun. One person’s classic is another person’s guilty pleasure, but at Babewyn Heightz we believe there’s room for both. The playlist might wander from old favourites to new discoveries, with the occasional tune that gets everyone on their feet. Good music has a way of bringing people together. You don’t need to know every lyric, and you certainly don’t need to be a great dancer. A little enthusiasm goes a long way. There may be a spontaneous chorus, a dramatic air-guitar solo, or a dance move that should probably stay within the garden fence. Nobody is keeping score. The point is to enjoy the moment, laugh with your friends, and add a few memorable stories to the collection. If the neighbours can hear us, we hope they’ll know they’re welcome to join in. The best parties at Babewyn Heightz are the ones where nobody is watching the clock. The plates may be cleared, but there’s always another snack to bring out. The BBQ may have cooled down, but someone will still be discussing what should go on it next time. A fresh drink appears, another song comes on, and the conversation carries on. There’s room for serious chats, silly stories, friendly teasing, and the kind of laughter that makes it impossible to finish a sentence. We enjoy the big moments, of course, but often it’s the small things that make an evening special: a perfectly cooked burger, a song everyone remembers, or a friend arriving just when the evening needs them. Babewyn Heightz is about being generous—with the food, with the music, with the welcome, and with the time we spend together. Nobody should have to wonder if there’s enough to eat or whether they’re staying too long. There’s always another chair, another helping, and another reason to stay a little longer. Friends bring friends, stories grow in the retelling, and the crowd around the table somehow gets bigger as the evening goes on. We like to think of ourselves as a home for people who appreciate a lively BBQ, a cold beer, a good soundtrack, and a generous helping of laughter. So, if you’re visiting Babewyn Heightz, arrive ready to relax. Bring an appetite, bring a song suggestion, and bring the sort of good humour that makes every gathering better. You can help yourself to something from the grill, find a drink, and settle in wherever there’s space. There’s no need to be formal here. We’re happiest when everyone feels at home, the food keeps coming, and the conversation flows as easily as the drinks. Stay for the BBQ, stay for the music, and stay because your friends are still here. Stay for one more story, one more song, and one more bite of something delicious. At Babewyn Heightz, the welcome is always open, the table is always ready, and good friends are always worth making time for. When it’s finally time to head home, we hope you’ll leave with a full belly, a happy heart, a tune in your head, and a few new stories to tell. Our promise is simple: nobody leaves hungry, nobody leaves without a smile, and nobody leaves sober!

4 St Stephens Ln, Buttermarket Shopping Centre, IpswichIP1 1DT

Hidden in the Buttermarket Centre, Boom Battle Bar Ipswich has been turning nights out into legendary showdowns. Here, you can hurl axes (literally), because darts just wasn’t dramatic enough, challenge your mates to crazy golf, or settle old scores with a game of beer pong, all while sipping on cocktails with names that’ll make you grin. A favourite among groups of friends, work colleagues, and anyone who thinks a proper night out should involve more than just drinking, this place serves up street food that fuels the competition, drinks that keep the energy high, and an atmosphere that’s electric from the moment you walk in. The 2 Pint Steins are practically a rite of passage, and the Electric Margs are the perfect reward for victory (or consolation for defeat). Unlike those traditional pubs where the most action you’ll see is someone reaching for the last crisp, Boom Battle Bar is all about the thrill of the game. The staff are as competitive as the regulars, the music keeps the energy up, and the only thing more intense than the games is the trash talk. Whether you’re here for a birthday, a team-building exercise that actually builds teams, or just to prove you’re the king or queen of shuffleboard, this is where Ipswich comes to play. Local Tip: Book a BOOM Bundle. It’s the easiest way to get game time, drinks, and food sorted, so you can focus on what really matters, beating your mates.

70 Fore Street, IpswichIP4 1LB

Just a step back from Ipswich’s waterfront, Briarbank Bar has been pouring proper beer above its own brewery since 2013. Here, you can sip on three ever-changing cask ales brewed right downstairs, tap your foot to live jazz on the third Sunday of every month, or just admire the barrels built right into the bar. A favourite among craft beer lovers, jazz fans, and anyone who appreciates a pint with a story, this place serves up its own award-winning brews alongside guest beers, wines, and spirits. The menu offers pub classics and lighter bites, while the annual beer festivals (Easter and August) are the highlight of many a Suffolk calendar. Unlike those soulless chains where the beer tastes like it was shipped in from who-knows-where, Briarbank Bar pours its creations with pride. The staff know their hops, the jazz sets the mood, and the building’s past life as a bank adds character you won’t find in a Wetherspoons. Whether you’re here for a quiet pint, a jazz evening, or to discover your new favourite brew, this is a bar that celebrates proper beer, without the pretence. Local Tip: Time your visit for a beer festival. They’re the kind of event that turns a good night into a memorable one.

13 Upper Brook St, IpswichIP4 1EG

Standing proud on Upper Brook Street, The Cock & Pye has been serving Ipswich since the 1600s, long before anyone thought to put a pie on a pub sign. Here, you can catch live sport on Sky and TNT, sip on a cocktail, or tuck into pub classics while soaking up the atmosphere in a timber-framed building that’s seen it all. A favourite among sports fans, families, and anyone who appreciates a proper pub with history, this place offers a hidden beer garden perfect for sunny afternoons, a menu of classics, and a welcome as warm as the timber beams. The name has a story involving cocks and pies that’s far more interesting than your average pub tale. Unlike those soulless chains where the only character is the WiFi password, The Cock & Pye wears its centuries with pride. The staff are friendly, the screens are big, and the only thing more consistent than the service is the quality of the pints. Whether you’re here for the match, a family meal, or just to enjoy a drink in one of Ipswich’s oldest pubs, this is a place that knows how to do the simple things well. Local Tip: Ask about the history of the name. It’s a tale that’s as unique as the pub itself.

51 Crown St, IpswichIP1 3JA

Standing on Crown Street opposite the Tower Ramparts, The Cricketers has been an Ipswich institution since the 1930s. Built as a Tollemache pub in the style of Helmingham Hall, this grand old dame offers real ales, craft beers, and proper coffee that’ll wake you up faster than a double espresso. A favourite among shoppers, commuters, and anyone who appreciates a pint without the pretence, this place serves up a range of beers that change regularly, a beer garden for sunny days, and service so quick you can order your next round from the app before you’ve finished the last. The Wednesday cask ale club is a highlight for serious beer lovers. Unlike those tiny pubs where you have to queue for the loo and the bar at the same time, The Cricketers has the space to breathe. The staff are efficient, the prices are fair, and the building’s mock-baronial style gives it a grandeur you won’t find in your average boozer. Whether you’re here for a quick coffee, a leisurely pint, or to catch up with friends in the town centre, this is a pub that does the basics brilliantly. Local Tip: Download the app. You’ll be sipping your pint before you’ve even found a seat.

15 Northgate St, IpswichIP1 3BY

Right on Northgate Street, just a stone’s throw from Christchurch Park, The Halberd Inn has been serving Ipswich since the 17th century. This Grade II listed gem offers a huge covered stables area for live sport and music, a cosy Hay Loft function room upstairs, and all the character you’d expect from a pub with real history. A favourite among locals, sports fans, and anyone who appreciates a proper pub with a story, this place serves up a warm welcome, a great selection of drinks, and an atmosphere that’s as homely as it is historic. The outdoor seating is perfect for watching the world go by, and the live music keeps the vibe alive. Unlike those modern bars where the only history is last night’s receipt, The Halberd Inn wears its centuries with pride. The staff are friendly, the building’s full of nooks and crannies, and the only thing more impressive than the history is the welcome. Whether you’re here for the match, a live gig, or just to enjoy a drink in a pub that’s older than most of Ipswich, this is a place that knows how to make you feel at home. Local Tip: Check out the Hay Loft upstairs. It’s the perfect spot for a private do with a bit of history.

16 St Nicholas St, IpswichIP1 1TJ

Tucked away on St Nicholas Street in The Saints, Hopsters is the best bottleshop and micro bar in Suffolk. Here, you can pick from beers on tap or hundreds in the fridges, plus spirits, wines, and soft drinks—then decide whether to drink in or take it home. A favourite among craft beer lovers, spirits enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a proper selection, this place offers a welcoming atmosphere where the staff are as knowledgeable as they are friendly. The summer beer garden is the perfect spot to enjoy your latest discovery, and the ever-changing selection means there’s always something new to try. Unlike those pubs where the beer choice is whatever’s left in the cellar, Hopsters treats its selection like a library of liquid gold. The staff know their hops, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the only thing more impressive than the range is the passion behind it. Whether you’re here to find your new favourite brew, stock up for a party, or just enjoy a pint in good company, this is a place that takes its beer seriously—without ever taking itself too seriously. Local Tip: Ask the staff for a recommendation. They’ll help you find a beer you didn’t know you needed.

7 Wherry Quay, IpswichIP4 1AS

Perched on Wherry Quay with stunning views of the moored boats, Isaacs on the Quay is a waterfront institution housed in Grade I and II* listed buildings. Here, you can choose from four bars, grab a coffee from the tavern, or enjoy a meal while soaking up the best seat in town. A favourite among locals, visitors, and anyone who appreciates a proper waterfront experience, this place offers live sport and music, a beer garden with heating, and versatile spaces perfect for everything from a quiet coffee to a celebration. The private hire options make it ideal for weddings and special occasions. Unlike those landlocked pubs where the most exciting view is the car park, Isaacs on the Quay gives you front-row seats to the waterfront action. The staff are welcoming, the atmosphere is lively, and the only thing more impressive than the building’s history is the view. Whether you’re here for breakfast, a match on the big screen, or a night out with friends, this is a place that knows how to make the most of its waterfront location. Local Tip: Grab a table by the window at sunset. The view of the boats with the sky turning pink is worth the price of admission alone.

Portman Rd, IpswichIP1 2DA

Right outside Portman Road on matchdays, the ITFC Fanzone pops up to turn the pre-game build-up into a proper party. Here, you can grab a pint from the bars, enjoy live music, and fuel up with food—all for free entry—while the kids have their own space to play. A favourite among home supporters, families, and anyone who likes to start the matchday experience early, this place offers everything you need: cold drinks, hot food, and an atmosphere that buzzes with anticipation. The bars are ready, the music’s playing, and the only thing missing is you. Unlike those pubs where you have to queue for everything, the Fanzone is all about the communal spirit. The staff are friendly, the payments are cashless, and the only thing more exciting than the build-up is the match itself. Whether you’re here to meet up with mates, entertain the kids, or just soak up the pre-match atmosphere, this is where the Ipswich Town experience really begins. Local Tip: Get there early. The best spots fill up faster than the Sir Bobby Robson Stand on a Saturday.

The Flat Golden Inn Freehouse, 8 Cornhill, IpswichIP1 1DD

Right on the Cornhill, Mannings has been an Ipswich institution since the 16th century. This narrow-fronted pub opens up to reveal a long, wood-panelled bar and cosy rooms, with Jacobean panelling upstairs that tells stories of centuries past. A favourite among locals, sports fans, and anyone who appreciates a proper community pub, this place serves up a wide variety of drinks at easy-to-swallow prices, with live sport on the big screens to keep the atmosphere buzzing. The outdoor tables are perfect for sunny afternoons, and the occasional offers make it even more appealing. Unlike those soulless chains where the only history is the receipt from last night, Mannings wears its age with pride. The staff are friendly, the regulars are welcoming, and the only thing more impressive than the building’s history is the sense of community. Whether you’re here for a quiet pint, a match on the big screen, or just to enjoy a drink in a pub that’s been part of Ipswich since the 1500s, this is a place that knows how to make you feel at home. Local Tip: Pop in on a Friday or Saturday evening. The place comes alive with locals and the atmosphere is electric.

Grey Friars Rd, IpswichIP1 1UP

Right in the heart of Ipswich, the Novotel bar offers a stylish retreat just steps from the waterfront and Portman Road. Here, you can enjoy an array of beers and wines served by friendly staff, with a large-screen TV keeping you entertained until 11pm. A favourite among business travellers, football fans, and anyone who appreciates a proper hotel bar with a bit of style, this place serves up lighter meals and beverages in an open-plan space that’s perfect for unwinding. The Elements restaurant next door means you can make a full evening of it, and the central location puts you right in the action. Unlike those old-school pubs where the decor hasn’t changed since the last century, the Novotel bar offers modern surroundings with a lively atmosphere. The staff are welcoming, the drinks are well-poured, and the only thing more convenient than the location is the on-site parking. Whether you’re here for a post-match pint, a business meeting, or just to relax after a day exploring Ipswich, this is a bar that knows how to make you feel at home, without the fuss. Local Tip: Pop in before or after a Town match. You’ll be in and out of the stadium faster than you can say “Play-off final.”

Grey Friars Road, IpswichIP1 1UP

King St, Ipswich IP1 1EGIP1 1EG

Tucked away on King Street in the heart of Ipswich, the Swan and Hedgehog has been one of the town’s oldest inns since the 1600s. This lively pub centres around its central bar, with a beer garden that’s perfect for sunny days and a packed calendar of karaoke, live music, and events that keep the atmosphere buzzing. A favourite among locals, music lovers, and anyone who appreciates a proper pub with history and entertainment, this place serves up real ales, ciders, wines, and cocktails to suit all tastes. The jukebox and pool table add to the fun, and the multiple screens mean you won’t miss a moment of the sport. Unlike those quiet pubs where the most excitement is the dartboard gathering dust, the Swan and Hedgehog is all about the energy. The staff are friendly, the drinks are well-poured, and the only thing more impressive than the building’s history is the live music, rumour has it a certain global superstar played here in his early days. Whether you’re here for a singalong, a pint with mates, or just to soak up the atmosphere in one of Ipswich’s oldest pubs, this is a place that knows how to have a good time. Local Tip: Check the events calendar. With karaoke and live music regularly, there’s always something going on.

43 High Street, IpswichIP1 3QL

Just a stone’s throw from Christchurch Park, The Arbor House has been quietly perfecting the art of the proper pub since 2016. Here, cask ales are kept with religious devotion, the craft beer selection changes faster than the British weather, and British classics get a modern upgrade that’ll surprise even the most sceptical foodie. A favourite among museum visitors, theatre regulars, and anyone who knows their pale ale from their porter, this independent pub serves up small plates that beg to be shared (or hoarded) and mains that taste like a hug on a plate. The gluten beer-battered fish & chips is legendary, and the lasagne has a fan club that meets in the corner every Friday. Unlike those soulless chains where the beer tastes like dishwater and the food like an afterthought, The Arbor House does things properly: every pint is poured with care, every dish is made with pride, and every customer is treated like they’ve been coming for years, even if it’s their first time. Whether you’re popping in for a quick half, settling in for a proper session, or just enjoying the kind of evening that makes you remember why you love Ipswich, this is a pub that gets the simple things right. Local Tip: If the scotch egg falafel is on, get it. You’ll be back next week for another.

23 Black Horse Ln, IpswichIP1 2EF

Nestled on Black Horse Lane, The Black Horse isn’t just a pub, it’s a piece of Ipswich history. Standing since before 1689 and possibly the birthplace of Cardinal Wolsey, this is the oldest Black Horse in East Anglia, with Tudor doorways and Jacobean craftsmanship that whisper tales of centuries past. A favourite among Town fans, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates a proper pub with character, this place serves up three rotating guest ales, a beer garden perfect for sunny afternoons, and a traditional bar that feels like stepping back in time. The atmosphere is as rich as the history, with live music, quizzes, and football keeping the energy alive. Unlike those modern chains that feel like they were built yesterday and will be gone tomorrow, The Black Horse has been doing things right for over 300 years. The staff treat regulars like family, the beer garden is a hidden oasis in the town centre, and the private hire spaces have hosted everything from birthdays to wakes—always with that proper pub feel. Whether you’re popping in for a pre-match pint, settling in for a quiz night, or just soaking up the history with a beer in hand, this is a pub that knows its roots, and knows how to have a good time. Local Tip: If there’s a Town match on, get here early. The place fills up faster than Portman Road on a Saturday.

1 Cornhill, IpswichIP1 1DH

Right on the Cornhill, The Botanist Ipswich brings a touch of botanical magic to the town centre. Spread over two floors with an outdoor terrace, this place serves up cocktails inspired by the best of botany, a menu packed with seasonal veg and herbs, and homegrown live music every weekend. A favourite among cocktail lovers, foodies, and anyone who appreciates a proper night out with a difference, this place offers signature drinks like the Garden Mojito or poppy and pink gin punch, alongside the famous Hanging Kebab™. The botanically-themed surroundings make it feel like you’ve stepped into a secret garden, and the dog-friendly policy means your four-legged friend can join the fun too. Unlike those ordinary bars where the most exciting thing is the price list, The Botanist is a feast for the senses. The staff are knowledgeable, the cocktails are inventive, and the only thing more impressive than the drinks is the atmosphere. Whether you’re here for a casual lunch, a celebratory dinner, or a fun night out with friends, this is a place that turns every visit into something special. Local Tip: Try the Hanging Kebab. It’s as famous as it is delicious, and it’s the kind of dish you’ll be talking about long after you’ve left.

St Stephens Ln, IpswichIP1 1DP

Tucked away on St Stephen’s Lane opposite the Buttermarket, The Church is Ipswich’s cultural hub for creatives, music lovers, and communities. Housed in a former church with its original character retained, this place offers a licensed cafe/bar, Hex Record Shop, and a versatile space for gigs, DJ nights, and markets. A favourite among music fans, vinyl enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a proper venue with soul, this place serves up coffee, craft beers, wines, and snacks (including vegan options) alongside a stellar soundtrack. The weekly Vinyl Communion events showcase local DJs, and you can even order Mylo’s Pizza with no delivery fee. Unlike those ordinary bars where the only culture is the price list, The Church puts music and community at its heart. The staff are passionate, the sound system is top-notch, and the only thing more impressive than the building’s history is the atmosphere. Whether you’re here for a quiet coffee, a vinyl shopping spree, or a night of live music, this is a place that celebrates Ipswich’s creative spirit. Local Tip: Check out Hex Record Shop. It’s the perfect place to find that rare vinyl you’ve been searching for.

15-17 Thoroughfare, IpswichIP1 1BX

Nestled in The Walk, The Crafty Fox is a Parisian-inspired café bar with a twist. By day, it’s all about coffee, tea, and French-style food; by evening, it transforms into a haven for craft beers, fine wines, and cocktails. A favourite among coffee lovers, beer enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a proper venue that adapts to the time of day, this place serves up crafted coffee, specialist drinks, and fine teas alongside a menu that changes with the clock. The central location and relaxing vibe make it perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or an evening tipple. Unlike those places that can’t decide what they want to be, The Crafty Fox does it all, and does it with style. The staff are welcoming, the atmosphere is cosy, and the only thing more impressive than the drinks is the versatility. Whether you’re here for a morning coffee, an afternoon catch-up, or an evening of craft beer exploration, this is a place that knows how to make every moment count. Local Tip: Try it in the evening. The transformation from café to bar is something to behold.

76 St. Helen's St, IpswichIP4 2LH

Ipswich’s best real ale pub. Full stop. Maybe, if you don't think of The Fat Cat. On St Helens Street, The Dove Street Inn doesn’t just serve beer—it celebrates it. Eight guest ales on tap, a world of bottled beers, and gins that’ll make you rethink your usual order. The Dove Street Brewery’s latest creations get their debut here, and the regulars are the kind of people who’ll happily talk you through the menu. Dogs, kids, and ale lovers all find a home here. The garden’s perfect for sunny afternoons, the board games turn quiet evenings into competitions, and the beer festivals are the stuff of local legend. This isn’t one of those pubs that tries to be all things to all people. It knows what it is—a proper, award-winning, CAMRA-loved boozer where the beer is the star. Don’t leave without: Trying whatever’s fresh from the brewery. It’s probably the best pint you’ll have in Ipswich.

288 Spring Road, IpswichIP4 5NL

# Welcome to the Fat Cat We are a small, friendly Free House where you can enjoy a wide selection of up to fifteen real ales served straight from the cask from our temperature controlled tap room. Also on offer are up to five real ciders as well as a selection of gins, whiskies, rums, wines and Belgian beers. Find out more by perusing our drinks section. We are a pub about the beer and the people so whether it is lively debate you're after or a quiet pint in the greenery filled garden, you can find it here! Keep an eye out for events taking place throughout the year including quizzes, live music and beer, wine and spirit tastings. -- Sorry, we are **over 18's only**. This includes the pub & garden. Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome.

4-6 Wherry Quay, IpswichIP4 1LG

The moment you walk through the door on Wherry Quay, you know you're somewhere special. The low lighting, the warm ambiance, the clink of cocktail shakers—this is where Ipswich's cocktail scene comes alive. The bar itself is a work of art, with an impressive gin selection that would make any spirits enthusiast weak at the knees. The cocktails? They're not just drinks; they're experiences. Think chocolate martinis crafted with premium, locally-sourced ingredients, served by staff who know their gin from their tonic. It's the kind of place where the music is just loud enough to feel lively, but quiet enough to hear your companion's wisdom (or nonsense). The two-for-one deals before 8pm are the cherry on top, making it the perfect spot to start your evening, or end it in style. Hidden gem? More like Ipswich's best kept secret. The Gallery in three words: Creative. Intimate. Unforgettable.

9 Henley Rd, IpswichIP1 3SE

**What you’ll find:** Well-kept Adnams beers, great food, exceptional service, and two bars to choose from—cosy front or spacious lounge. **Why Town fans love it:** Just 15 minutes from Portman Road, it’s the perfect pre- or post-match pitstop. The staff are loyal Town fans themselves, and the car park saves you the hassle. **The Greyhound difference:** This isn’t just another pub. It’s where the beer is always perfect, the food hits the spot, and the service makes you feel like family. Sunday breakfasts? Sorted. Beer garden for summer? Of course. Raising money for ITFC Foundation? That’s just what they do. Pro tip: Try the football menu before a home game. It’s become a matchday tradition for a reason.

81 Fore Street, IpswichIP4 1JZ

Walk past the half-timbered front on Fore Street and you’re stepping into a piece of Ipswich history. The Lord Nelson—originally Noah’s Ark, renamed in 1800 for our most famous admiral—has been serving the town for centuries. And it shows. Inside, you’ll find open fires for colder months, beautifully carved beams, and that rare thing: a proper traditional pub atmosphere. The wooden casks behind the bar are a nod to the past (even if the beer comes from a cool room). The staff? They’re the kind of people who’ll dress up for any community event—any excuse for fancy dress, really. It’s dog-friendly, so your four-legged friend can join you for a pint and a treat. There’s a snug bar for groups (book quickly, it’s popular), a large patio for sunny days, and regular events like pub quizzes and wine tastings. This is a pub that remembers what pubs are for: community, conversation, and a proper pint. The Nelson in a nutshell: Traditional. Welcoming. Proper.

8 Lion St, IpswichIP1 1DQ

Upstairs, it’s all about the food. Authentic tapas, intimate lighting, and the kind of atmosphere that’s perfect for a romantic evening or a catch-up with friends. Downstairs, the vibe shifts. DJs spin the decks, cocktails flow, and the all-weather courtyard with its retractable roof means the party can keep going whatever the weather. This is where Ipswich comes to dance. Weekends are when The Moloko really shines, with Soul Sunday sessions and regular events that keep the energy high. The courtyard is the star, perfect for summer evenings or those rare winter days when the sun decides to show up. This isn’t just a bar. It’s a full evening experience, where you can start with tapas and end on the dance floor. The Moloko difference: Food upstairs, fun downstairs. Rain or shine.

8-10 Dogs Head St, IpswichIP4 1AD

Dating back to the 17th century, The Plough has seen Ipswich change around it. Originally much larger, it was reduced in size in the late 1880s when Dog’s Head Street was widened for trams. It’s moved around the town centre over the years, but the spirit has always been the same: a proper pub for proper people. **Now:** Today, you’ll find a large split-level main bar, a separate restaurant, and a beer garden that’s perfect for sunny days. The Long Room has been impressively refurbished and is now a non-smoking space. With up to nine regularly changing ales and real cider on offer, it’s a paradise for ale enthusiasts. **Why it works:** Football fans love it on match days (it’s just 10 minutes from Portman Road), families love the Sunday roasts, and everyone loves the traditional pub atmosphere. The Sky Sports TV means you won’t miss the big game, and the occasional live music keeps the vibe lively. This is a pub that’s evolved with the town but never lost its soul. The Plough in a sentence: Nine ales, one great atmosphere, zero pretence.

2 Tacket St, IpswichIP4 1AY

City Centre, 1-3 Fore St, IpswichIP4 1JW

78-80 New Cut West, IpswichIP2 8HW

Perched beside the Orwell, The Steamboat Tavern has spent years perfecting three things: serving excellent ale, hosting brilliant live music, and convincing customers that "just one quick pint" is a realistic plan. A favourite among locals, sailors, musicians, dogs, and people who accidentally turned a lunchtime visit into an all-evening session, The Steamboat offers ever-changing guest beers, hearty pub grub, and enough riverside charm to make you forget what time you told your family you'd be home. Unlike certain larger establishments down the waterfront, The Steamboat doesn't need three floors, a small postcode district, or a navigation chart to find your mates. It's simply a proper pub: great beer, great atmosphere, and friendly faces who'll probably remember your name before you've finished your second pint. The legendary chilli cheesy chips have ended countless diets and started many friendships, while the live music has been responsible for more impromptu singalongs than anyone is willing to admit in public. Whether you're watching boats drift past on the river, enjoying a local ale, or debating whether one more pint counts as hydration, The Steamboat delivers everything a proper British pub should: good beer, good company, and stories that become 20% more impressive every time they're retold. Local Tip: If someone says they're "just popping into The Steamboat for one", they're either lying, confused, or new to Ipswich.

1 Tuddenham Rd, IpswichIP4 2SH

9-13 St Peter's St, IpswichIP1 1XF

22 Lloyds Ave, IpswichIP1 3HD

33-37 St. Nicholas Street, IpswichIP1 1TW

Hidden in Ipswich’s historic Saints quarter, @twenty5 has mastered the art of making every visit feel like a special occasion without the pretence. Here, old beams meet modern flair, and the only thing more carefully curated than the wine list is the atmosphere. A haven for locals, date nights, and anyone who knows their Malbec from their Merlot, @twenty5 serves up seasonal dishes that taste like they were made in your grandma’s kitchen,if your grandma happened to have a secret supply of Suffolk’s finest ingredients. The Japanese-style fried chicken has a cult following, and the rib-eye steak is so good it should come with a warning label. Unlike those soulless chains where the menu changes with the whims of head office, @twenty5 keeps it real: every dish tells a story, every drink has a purpose, and every member of staff seems to remember your name after one visit. Whether you’re here for a romantic dinner, a catch-up with old friends, or just to work your way through the cocktail list, you’ll leave already planning your return. Local Tip: If you see the horseradish mayo on the menu, order it. You’ll be talking about it for weeks.

3 Wherry Quay, IpswichIP4 1AS