5 Best Hotels in Ipswich, Heart of East England

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Posted On : February 5, 2023 By Jeremy Foo

Looking for the Best Hotels in Ipswich?

Ipswich is a historic town located in the county of Suffolk, in the East of England.

Known for its rich history, cultural heritage and thriving modern economy,

Ipswich is a popular destination for both visitors and residents alike.

With its rich and diverse community, excellent transport links, and abundant cultural and recreational activities,

it is no wonder that Ipswich has become one of the most sought after places to live and work in the UK.

So if you’re planning to visit Ipswich in 2023, scroll down to find out the best hotels to stay at including fun things to do in the Town!

List of Best Hotels in Ipswich


 

1. Salthouse Harbour Hotel

One of the best hotels in Ipswich that is very worth mentioning, Salthouse Harbour Hotel! It’s famous for its prime location.

Even though you’re in Ipswich, if you squint on a beautiful day, the masts and gin palaces of the marina in Antibes can seem to you.


Salthouse Harbour - Best Hotels in Ipswich Salthouse Harbour - Lounge

Photo Source Salthouse Harbour Hotel

There is a lot to see in the city , from one of the largest collections of Gainsborough and Constable paintings in the UK at the Christchurch Mansion museum,

including the attractions and walks in “Constable Country,” the Stour Valley, the riverside town of Woodbridge,

and some fantastic riverside pubs along the Orwell and Deben estuaries.

The building style of this hotel will make your jaw drop!

The hotel is a member of the slightly eccentric Gough Hotels company, which also owns the Angel in Bury St Edmunds and Southwold Pier.

As a result, the décor is blatantly modern but also has tons of individuality.

Curious contemporary art and sculptures, as well as fantastical ethnic objects acquired by the proprietors during their international travels, liven up public spaces.

It’s a wonderful combination that respects the old warehouse building’s nautical history and makes the most of its prime riverfront setting.


Salthouse Harbour - Bedroom Salthouse Harbour - Living Room 2
Salthouse Harbour - Living Room Salthouse Harbour - Bathtub

Photo Source Salthouse Harbour Hotel

The service at the Salthouse Harbour is what we always expect from a hotel but frequently don’t get:

it’s relaxed, assured, and constantly attentive without ever being intrusive.

There is parking to the side of the hotel, a very nice restaurant that is well-liked by non-guests and available for lunch and dinner, as well as 24-hour room service.

Additionally, they collaborate with “Flawless Image,” a business on Fore Street that provides massages and other spa services.

As for the rooms, they range in size and shape from those in the original converted warehouse structure to the frequently larger and more extravagant rooms and suites in the contemporary addition.

Choose a front-facing room if you want to fully appreciate the hotel (not much more expensive)!

Pushing it, choose a front-facing Contemporary room or a Marina suite, preferably one with a balcony and a copper bath placed to maximize the view.

These options are nicer than the larger and more expensive Penthouse Suites.

Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with Freeview, tea and coffee making amenities, complimentary cookies and mineral water, and Temple Spa toiletries are included in every room.

Separate bathtubs and showers, robes, air conditioning, and Bose docking stations are additional amenities found in the Penthouse suites, Marina, and Contemporary rooms.

You might be wondering if this hotel is family-friendly, the Salthouse Harbour doesn’t set out to be a family-friendly hotel but it does have four family rooms each with a double bed and sofa bed (although they are not front-facing);

They will also add put-me-up beds where possible in front-facing rooms and have one floor of dog-friendly rooms.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s really worth the price and you won’t be disappointed for staying here!

Salthouse Harbour Hotel

Rate stars from $158

Book Salthouse Harbour hotel here!

 

2. Travelodge Ipswich Hotel

When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for a relaxing and comfortable stay, it can be overwhelming with the numerous options available.

However, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on comfort, then look no further than the Travelodge Ipswich Hotel!


Travelodge Ipswich - Best Hotels in Ipswich Travelodge Ipswich - Restaurant

Photo Source Travelodge Ipswich

For those interested in checking out popular landmarks while visiting Ipswich, Travelodge Ipswich Hotel is located a short distance from

The Major Statue at Major’s Corner (0.5 mi) and Cardinal Thomas Wolsey statue (0.5 mi).

The hotel is just a short walk from the town center and is located near the A12 and A14,

making it easy to travel to other parts of Suffolk and beyond.

The hotel is also close to Ipswich train station, making it easy for guests to get to and from the hotel.

If you’re looking for a bite to eat, you won’t be disappointed at Travelodge Ipswich.

The hotel has its own bar and cafe, serving a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks, and meals.

The cafe is open 24 hours a day, so you can grab a bite to eat whenever you like.

If you prefer to dine out, there are numerous restaurants and cafes located nearby.

Be sure to check out popular spots like Mahzen Barbeque Restaurant & Meze Bar, Mariners 1900 – Ipswich, and Casablanca Restaurant, which are serving up some great dishes.

For the rooms they offer amenities such as a flat screen TV, private bathrooms, seating area wardrobe/closet,

and guests can go online with paid internet access offered by the hotel.


Travelodge Ipswich - Bedroom Travelodge Ipswich - Bathroom

Photo Source Travelodge Ipswich Hotel

It also looks clean, and equipped with specific accessibility needs, like wheelchair friendly.

For a budgeted option in Ipswich, the service is awesome, and you’ll be welcomed with professional yet warm hospitality.

Travelodge Ipswich Hotel

Rate stars from $70

Book your stay at Travelodge Ipswich Hotel.

 

3. Retreat East

Are you in the mood to escape from the stress of city life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature?

Then Retreat East is absolutely a perfect option!


Retreat East - Best Hotels in Ipswich Retreat East - Terrace
Retreat East - Lobby Retreat East - Bar

Photo Source Retreat East

Outside of the sleepy village of Hemingstone, in the middle of the Suffolk countryside.

The location, which is down a narrow lane and surrounded by rolling fields, feels incredibly peaceful.

If you’re arriving by train, Ipswich is a 20-minute cab ride away, but if you want to explore the area,

it’s better to arrive by car because otherwise you run the danger of feeling a little alone—though that’s kind of the purpose.

Drive 30 minutes to Rendlesham Forest to go for a walk or to the Suffolk Coast (start with charming Aldeburgh, 40 minutes away).

You might think this place is scary since it’s “isolated”, but hear me out.

You’ll be delighted once you arrive because of how warm and unique this hotel is!

The Great Barn, a lofty, opulent room with slate floors, exposed beams, flower arrangements, a striking brick fireplace, and comfortable armchairs, is located in the center.

You come here to check in, unwind, and then have supper.

A pleasant pub with a pool table and board games is tucked away around the corner and adds to the atmosphere with paintings of endearing barnyard animals.

Enjoy a gin and tonic from Rhubarb Suffolk Distillery as you relax!

Not only the place is wonderful, but also the staff.

The staff is very helpful and happy to recommend local activities, walks, and restaurants.

In the spa section, there is a gym with plenty of natural light on one side and a sauna and steam room on the other, both of which have a cow-themed tile mosaic.

The two lovely treatment rooms are located in the center; the therapists are very qualified, and the facial you receive is going to be top-notch!

What’s so unique about this hotel is that there is a kitchen garden on the site so guests are free to choose whatever they want.

Maybe chives to sprinkle over eggs in the morning.

What a thoughtful addition!

Despite the fact that they range in size from one-bedroom “dairy barns” to a full-on four-bedroom farmhouse,

all of them manage to create the impression of a charming and stylish country home thanks to features like exposed wooden beams,brick flooring, and vaulted ceilings.


Retreat East - Living Room Retreat East - Dining Room
Retreat East - Bedroom Retreat East - Bathroom

Photo Source Retreat East

The room also has a lot of amenities including a kitchen counter with stools, a funky Smeg refrigerator,

and all the cooking equipment you could possibly need.

The bedroom, which is around the corner, has a gorgeously comfortable bed decorated with soft gray pillows and a headboard,

as well as a leather armchair, a wooden desk, a deep blue cabinet, and a cozy bathroom with a strong rain shower and toiletries.

The major draw is a standalone tub in glossy white under the eaves.

Travel with family? Kids are welcome! But there aren’t any amenities specifically for families.

Well-behaved pets are allowed, and there is a dog washing station outside the main barn that is useful for cleaning off after muddy walks.

For disabled guests, there is a one-bedroom barn and a two-bedroom barn that both have disabled access.

Sounds wonderful, isn’t it? Wait no more and book now!

Retreat East

Rate starts from $200

Book Retreat East here!

 

4. Easy Hotel

If you are looking for an uplifting experience but within a budget, Easy Hotel is a great option!

One of the best-located hotels in this charming Suffolk town is Easy Hotel Ipswich,

which is only a short stroll from the town center and less than 20 minutes from the railway station.

It is close to several restaurants and bars, so you can unwind after a long day at the workplace or exploring your new surroundings whether you are traveling for business or pleasure.

It is one of the budget friendly hotels in Ipswich that is designed to show a modern and minimalist concept, making the hotel look cleaner and comfortable.

Easy Hotel - Best Hotels in Ipswich Easy Hotel - Lobby

Photo Source Easy Hotel

Public areas and wheelchair accessible rooms are designed to ensure accessibility for wheelchair users and people with mobility problems. There’s also a lift in the hotel.

The only downside of this hotel is that they don’t offer breakfast, however there are plenty of places to eat and drink nearby.

Among the facilities at this property are a shared lounge and a 24-hour front desk, along with free WiFi throughout the property.


Easy Hotel - Bedroom Easy Hotel - Bathroom

Photo Source Easy Hotel

Guest rooms in the hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels.

At Easy Hotel Ipswich each room has bed linen and towels, private bathroom, air conditioning, heating, and is pet-friendly!

If this is your choice, then don’t hesitate to book directly on our TripCandy website!

Easy Hotel

Rate starts from $40

Book Easy Hotel here!

 

5. Bridge Guest House

Another friendly-budget and best hotel in Ipswich!

It is located just around the corner from the Ipswich train station and directly near to Gippeswyk Park.

Many sights are within a 10-minute walk of the location.


Bridge Guest House - Best Hotels in Ipswich Bridge Guest House - Restaurant

Photo Source Bridge Guest Hotel

The Town Centre, Cineworld, Ipswich Town Football Club, the recently renovated Quayside, Suffolk University,

as well as several restaurants and nightclubs, to name a few, are all easily accessible from this location.

A short drive will also take you to places like Foxhall Stadium, the Suffolk Showground, Jimmys Farm, and Felixstowe Beach.

To attempt and meet all of your needs, they provide a selection of rooms, both basic and en-suite.


Bridge Guest House - Breakfast Bar Bridge Guest House - Bedroom

Photo Source Bridge Guest House

There are TVs in every room, as well as free WiFi, tea and coffee making equipment, towels, soaps, and access to hair dryers and ironing facilities.

The majority of the rooms now feature microwaves and work areas, and some of them even have refrigerators.

At the Bridge Guest House, they are dedicated to providing the highest level of customer service to all of their guests.

Their friendly and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to answer any questions you may have, and to help you make the most of your stay.

Whether you need help with your luggage, recommendations for local attractions, or assistance with any other aspect of your stay, our team is here to help.

They take pride in their commitment to excellence, and strive to ensure that all of their guests have a memorable and enjoyable stay.

So why wait? Book your stay at the Bridge Guest House Ipswich today and experience the comfort and convenience of a home away from home.

Bridge Guest House

Rate starts from $86

Book Bridge Guest Hotel here!

 

Things To Do In Ipswich

Have you decided where to stay in Ipswich? While you’re staying in Ipswich, be sure to take some time to explore all that Ipswich has to offer.

Here we’re gonna break down some of the things you can do while in the town!

1. While Away An Evening on the Ipswich Waterfront

Things to do - Ipswich Waterfron
Photo Source Ipswich Waterfront

A busy mix of cafes, restaurants, opulent residences, the majestic Suffolk University architecture, and The Salthouse boutique hotel can be found along the waterfront.

Enjoy a relaxing evening here while taking in some people-watching, listening to live music in one of the bars, and watching the yachts gently bobble on the water.

Read here to find out more about Ipswich Waterfront!
 

2. Explore Ipswich on Foot

Things to do - explore Ipswich on foot

Photo Source Ipswich

A guided walk with a knowledgeable guide is the greatest way to acquire a sense of a location.

Learn about the town’s past while hearing about some of the people who left their imprint on history.

The monument of “Grandma,” which is based on the cartoon character created by Ronald “Carl” Giles, is not to be missed.

‘Grandma’ stares up at the office window where Giles spent a lot of time working, almost as if she’s waiting for him to look out and wave.

There are regular strolls from May to September.
 

3. Visit New Wolsey Theatre

Things to do - New Wolsey Theatre

Photo Source New Wolsey Theatre

Ipswich offers a wide variety of cultural entertainment options if you’re interested.

If live music, comedy, or theater are more to your liking, there are several places that host fascinating events.

The New Wolsey Theatre, which has 400 seats, is a focal point of Suffolk’s cultural scene and presents a number of exciting new performances.

Some of these were created and produced internally, while others were the result of collaborations or were performed on tour from London and other locations.

Check the upcoming show!
 

4. Explore Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Zoo


Things to do - Jimmy_s farm and Wildlife Zoo

Photo Source Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Zoo

Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Zoo, which first appeared on television screens more than 15 years ago, is just a few miles from Ipswich.

The farm, which started off small, has grown into a popular destination with an award-winning restaurant,

a fantastic farm shop and other shops, a nature walk, and a butterfly house (opening 2022).

There are a number of festivals held here all year long that honor science, cuisine, wine, and music.

Read more about the ticketing and events!
 

5. Enjoy the Views as You Sail Down the River Orwell


Things to do - River Orwell - Best Hotels in Ipswich

Photo Source River Orwell

Make sure to put a stroll down the lovely River Orwell at the top of your list of things to do.

The lively marina at the Ipswich Waterfront is the starting point for a number of alternatives.

As you leave Ipswich, cruise beneath the opulent Orwell Bridge, and drift gently along the river,

passing through the lovely Shotley Peninsula, the landscape abruptly changes.

Check out activities at River Orwell!

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