ActivSheds celebrates 10 years of community, craftsmanship and connection in the heart of Ipswich

ActivSheds is proud to mark a decade of making, mending, creating and connecting with a special celebration on Friday 8th May, 11am–2pm, at the CRESS Pavilion on Halifax Road, Ipswich (IP2 8RE).

We’re opening the doors to welcome local residents, partners and supporters to meet our members, explore our workshop, discover our unique handmade products, and enjoy refreshments while finding out how to get involved.

A decade of ‘Sheds’ in Ipswich
Part of the international Men’s Sheds movement, ActivSheds has become a well‑loved part of the Ipswich community — a place where men can come together to share skills in carpentry, DIY and construction, take on personal or community projects, and enjoy the companionship that naturally grows from working with your hands.

But what makes ActivSheds special is its deep Ipswich roots. What began as a small group fixing up a dilapidated shed in Maidenhall has evolved into a thriving community workshop. Ten years later, some founding members are still with us, joined by new faces from across the town — each bringing their own stories, skills and humour.

Today, ActivSheds has a core group of around eight regulars who arrive every Friday, rain or shine, forming a supportive, tight‑knit community that feels like a second family.

A space built by Ipswich, for Ipswich
From a simple shed has grown an impressive workshop:
– Accessible benches designed for members with disabilities
– Shelving, rafters and storage for projects
– And of course, the all‑important tea bar

Supporting the wider Ipswich community
As demand has grown, ActivSheds has expanded beyond its original men‑only Fridays. Our Thursday sessions now welcome anyone who wants to develop confidence and practical skills.

Creativity that reflects the spirit of Ipswich
Visitors will find Shedders building everything from classic bird tables to unique, whimsical creations.

“It’s my support bubble” — what our members say
Members have shared how important the Shed is to their wellbeing.

For more information, please contact:
Susannah Robirosa, Project Manager
susannah@activlives.org.uk
07530 407302
ActivLives: 01473 345350

Activlives promote all events on Ipswich.love here:

ActivLives

160 Hadleigh Road Ipswich IP2 0HH

ActivLives is a local independent charity working in Ipswich and across Suffolk to keep people active, connected and involved with their local community through accessible sports and exercise, learning new skills and volunteering opportunities.

Events with ActivLives

• FREE ActivLives Health Walks at Christchurch Park – ActivWalks
  Fri 8th May 2026
• The People’s Community Garden – Fridays
  Fri 8th May 2026
• ActivFriends – Friendly Community Hub for people living with Dementia and their Carers
  Fri 8th May 2026
• The People’s Community Garden – Mondays
  Mon 11th May 2026
• Health Walk
  Mon 11th May 2026

Who wrote this about Ipswich?

Sam Sherman

Sam is a Co-Founder of Ipswich.love. Passionate about Ipswich, Sam looks to see how we might jointly reverse some of the recent negativity and bring some deserved positivity back to our beloved Town.