Ipswich
Ipswich is a historic town in Suffolk, on the River Orwell. It is believed to be the first town founded by the English, after the departure of the Romans.
There are twelve mediaeval churches, one of which is now used as the Tourist Information Centre, and the splendid 16th century Christchurch Mansion, in a lovely park, both of which are open to the public.
The Ipswich Museum and Art Gallery is housed in a fine Victorian building, and there is also a museum of historic transport.
The Ancient House is a spectacular building, dating from the 15th century, with outstanding pargeting. There are two historic gateways, Wolsey’s Gate dated 1536 and the Pykenham Gate of 1471.
Ipswich was the birthplace of Henry VIII’s Chancellor, Cardinal Wolsey, who died at Leicester, as well as footballer Kieron Dyer, theatre director Trevor Nunn and novelist V. S. Pritchett.
Thomas Gainsborough, who was born nearby at Sudbury, lived at Ipswich for a time, and Charles Dickens got the idea for “The Pickwick Papers” while staying at the Great White Horse inn.
Ipswich Town have been a very successful football club in their time, numbering among their former managers Sir Alf Ramsey and Sir Bobby Robson.
Ipswich is still an important port, with extensive docks, and there are cruises along the Orwell.