6 Fun historical outings around Ipswich, Woodbridge, and Felixstowe.
Do you love to learn about local history? With our top 6 recommended locations, you won’t be disappointed on your next trip out to either Ipswich, Woodbridge, or Felixstowe.<br /> <br />
Take a step back in time with your elderly relatives and discover some of the fantastic local histories right here on our doorstep. Getting out and about is a great way to stay engaged and active in senior years and it’s great fun to reminisce and draw back those wonderful memories.
Christchurch Mansion - Ipswich
There is one place in particular that comes to mind when we talk about historical buildings in Ipswich and that is the beautiful Tudor Mansion that is Christchurch. Boasting over 500 years of history, this stunning 12th-century building will catapult you back in time as you take a walk through the old Kitchen, the Butler’s Room, and the Queen Anne room.
Visitors can get a real feel for how the owners would have lived in the mansion. The only issue here is access. There is no lift, meaning the first floor is only accessible by stairs, making it difficult for people who rely on wheelchairs. Admission is free and parking is limited to blue badge holders only.
If you or your senior has a particular interest in art then you must visit the Landscape Rebels exhibition which explores how human impacts, including the climate crisis, are changing the landscape. There are also several great works by Suffolk artist Thomas Gainsborough.
Extend your trip by visiting the tearoom where you can get a drink and a light bite or take a stroll around the picturesque grounds where you will see lots of wildlife and beautiful garden displays.
“A treasure trove of antiquities. A must-see.” Says one of the guests.
Tide Mill Museum - Woodbridge
The Tide Mill at Woodbridge is something of a local icon, attracting many visitors to the town. The Mill is only one of a handful in the world that is still producing flour on a regular basis and has been doing so for over 800 years.
The Tide Mill is dependent on the tides and heights of the tide, but the machinery can turn most days although at different times. The operating and milling times are advertised on the website and seeing it operate is a rare and fascinating experience, according to the locals, “one not to be missed.” The millers are very friendly and only too happy to talk to visitors and explain what they are doing.
At the Museum you will experience unique computer-generated imagery, interactive models, audio stations, and wonderfully illustrated exhibition panels. There is no parking on-site at the mill although it is only a short walk from the Railway station where there are blue badge holders’ spaces available.
Afterwards, follow the river wall for a tranquil walk along the banks of the River Deben or take a wander into beautiful Woodbridge to browse the shops or grab a bite at one of the many fine pubs and restaurants.
“A lovely old building and surprisingly lots to look at. I definitely recommend visiting the Mill if you are visiting Woodbridge.”
Languard Fort - Felixstowe
There is so much history to be discovered here at Languard Fort. Built in the 18th century, manned through both World Wars, and converted to a Cold War control room, the Fort was disarmed and closed in 1956. It wasn’t until 1997 that it was opened on behalf of English heritage by the Languard Fort Trust.
The Fort is located at the most southerly point of Felixstowe and defended the approach to the Harwich Harbour. There are accessible blue badge holder parking spaces at the entrance and admission is free for carers who are assisting companions. There is wheelchair access although assistance may be required. You can read more about accessibility at Languard Fort here.
The Fort is very good at putting on special events and historical re-enactments and there is a café and shop onsite. The Volunteers are extremely knowledgeable and very friendly and offer a great deal for all ages to enjoy.
“The history of the fort is fantastic. There are lots to see including an old shower block and kitchen, galleries, and an old communications room. We spent a couple of hours here before taking a stroll along the coast with a coffee from the nearby café.”
The Long Shed - Woodbridge
In 2018, the Woodbridge Riverside Trust took on the Lease of the Longshed creating a community boatshed and public open space in Woodbridge. The main focus here at the Longshed is the rebuilding of the Sutton Hoo Anglo-Saxon longship that was buried in the 7th century! The team of volunteers are attempting to recreate the Sutton Hoo boat using traditional methods.
Visitors are welcome to take part in a range of creative projects or simply watch the progress of the ship. The staff here are very knowledgeable and are more than happy to spend a good amount of time explaining the processes. The museum has some fantastic displays including photos and local artefacts and there is lift access to an upstairs viewing area.
If you would like to get something to eat and drink you will need to take a very short walk just next door to the Woodyard restaurant where you can sit and look out over the Deben river.
Ipswich Museum - Ipswich (Currently closed until 2025 for refurbishments)
Another one of our fantastic historical places to visit in Ipswich is the Museum where you can meet the famous woolly mammoth! Opened in 1881, the museum was purpose-built for educational purposes.
Whether you enjoy learning about animals, are a bird fanatic or love to jump back into the ‘olden days’ to see how we survived through civil and world wars, this beautiful Victorian building has it all.
The staff here are very welcoming and they are always keen to tell you all about the displays. You may even find some of the staff in role play as they engage with visitors to make your experience a fantastic and realistic one.
Entry is free and no booking is required. There is no parking at the museum but there is plenty nearby and is only approximately a 5-minute walk from the bus station at the sailmakers shopping centre. The museum is fully accessible featuring a lift to the first floor and ramps throughout.
“Loads to see and read and enjoyable for all ages,” Says one of the guests.
Ipswich Transport Museum - Ipswich
Last but certainly not least, if you are in the Ipswich area, you must consider a trip to the Ipswich Transport Museum where you can see a fascinating collection of over 100 of Ipswich’s Transport and heritage covering 200 years.
What makes this place great is the Restoration Zone where you can wander around and see what vehicles are being restored and there is a model railway where you can drive the trains. On special events, you can take a ride on an old open-top bus or in one of the shiny red fire engines.
The Transport Museum is on one level making this accessible to those with mobility issues and has a lovely onsite tearoom where you can sit and enjoy a drink and a bite to eat. You can find the museum here.
“A fantastic day out for kids and even the big kids too,” Says one of the guests.
