IPSWICH THINGS TO DO

Mutual House – Suffolk Building Society

Suffolk Building Society, Ipswich

Information - Mutual House – Suffolk Building Society

Heritage Open Days 2026

A chance to have a look behind the scenes at this Grade II listed building, originally built as the Ipswich branch of Parr’s bank in 1901. Take a peek at the original bank vault in the basement.

The Grade II listed building was designed by prominent local architect Thomas Cotman and built in 1901, featuring two storey oriel windows, quatrefoils and finished with rooftop pinnacles.

Bought by Suffolk Building Society in 2016, the building was renamed Mutual House and lovingly restored inside and out. A number of original features can be found throughout the building, including the original high ceiling which was discovered by Suffolk Building Society. For 2025, visitors will be able to take a tour into the basement to view the original bank vault, larder, coal cellar and night safe.

Suffolk Building Society was originally founded in 1849 as the Ipswich & Suffolk Freehold Land Society – to enable the ordinary man to own enough land in order to vote – the Society developed land and houses until 1933.

This year, we’re bringing history to life with a special re-enactment of a real society ballot for homes – just as it was done when we were first founded. Join us at Mutual House at 11am on both Saturday and Sunday to witness this historic tradition.