For the love of finding connections Written by Polly Rodwell, Retired Teacher

Published on September 13, 2023

Christchurch Park, Ipswich

Dear Ipswich, I trust you are well.

I really love Ipswich and I’m so sad to see people putting it down. Yes, as with all towns of this size, we have problems: closed shops, potholes, and poverty to name just three. But Ipswich has so much to offer!

Our parks are amazing: a family could spend several days in Christchurch Park and still not experience all it has to offer, and all free!

And what about the free music festivals, the free activities on the Cornhill, the Pulse Festival, the eateries, the theatres and the dance school?

And, contrary to what you read on social media, people in Ipswich are friendly and helpful. Only a couple of days ago, we found a toddler running through town in a panic because he’d lost his family. A young couple took it upon themselves to scour the town. They found the father and brother and ran back to tell us he was on his way.
So many good things but my final love is our hospital. We are so lucky to have it.

Polly Rodwell
Retired Teacher

Love Letters to Ipswich

For the love of skating rinks and Ipswich Summers - Ipswich.love

For the love of skating rinks and Ipswich Summers

I loved my Ipswich Summers, we used to cycle down to Broomhill Swimming Pool, have the morning in the water and have a picnic lunch in Broomhill Park after, pure magic!

For the love of skating rinks and Ipswich Summers - Ipswich.love

By Julie Oldring

For the love of a grown-up bus trip to Ipswich - Ipswich.love

For the love of a grown-up bus trip to Ipswich

Ipswich you will survive and thrive as you always have, because hope, love and light always overcome fear and darkness eventually.

Jenna Ackerley - Events under Canvas

By Jenna Ackerley

The Peace Cafe - Ipswich.love

For the love of Holywells, Gainsborough and Cups of Tea

World renowned 18th Century artist Thomas Gainsborough lived in Ipswich for nearly a decade, yet the only known work of the town is the iconic painting of Holywells Park. So what makes the park so special? Its charm lies in its serene ponds, ancient trees, and the remnants of its Victorian past. Running a café […]

By Jon Shapcott

For the love of an old house - Ipswich.love

For the love of an old house

I have always had a deep love of Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture ever since I was a small child and used to visit my grandparents sprawling Edwardian home just outside Ipswich. As I grew up, I knew I felt safe and inspired by these sorts of homes, but I could never really put my […]

For the love of an old house - Ipswich.love

By Joanne Hoy

Recent News

 Getting Through the Tough January Months: A Guide to Positive Wellbeing

Posted on January 15, 2025

As New Year celebrations fade into the past, it’s easy to feel down. The fun is over, the weather is gloomy, and spring seems far away. This time of year can be hard emotionally and physically challenging for many of us. However, with the right steps you can turn January into a chance to grow, […]

Ipswich Charter Festival – the countdown begins

Posted on January 5, 2025

We’re into the festival year of 2025, a year to commemorate the 825th anniversary of King John granting Ipswich its historic Charter. May it be a great year for our town and all who live and work here! We have been working with pupils from Northgate School, preparing for the Charter 825 concert to be held […]

Small Business Saturday: 7th December 2024

Posted on November 28, 2024

Shop locally this Christmas and find unique gifts for everyone. Our town centre has a rich variety of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. From fashion and homewares to games, books and beer, you will be spoilt for choice with the diverse range of shops to suit every taste and budget. And whilst you are shopping, […]

Ipswich Tourist Guides Association walks and gift vouchers

Posted on November 26, 2024

Need an Interesting & Inexpensive Small Gift? Are you looking for a small gift for a local person who seems to have everything? Why not, buy a friend or relative an Ipswich Tourist Guides Gift Voucher? Valued at £5 or £10 vouchers can be used in full or part payment for any guided walk around […]

To top