The best hotels in Ipswich

What are the best hotels in Ipswich?

Ipswich is a characterful Suffolk town on the River Orwell, with a pretty marina, winding old streets, timber-framed buildings and plenty of good pubs, cafes and restaurants. It has a fascinating history, but there's more to it than medieval buildings and museums, with a lively arts scene and some lovely green spaces too. For somewhere special to stay, Salthouse Harbour Hotel is our favourite spot. Set in a converted salt warehouse on the waterfront, it has exposed brickwork, contemporary art, spacious rooms and lovely marina views. The restaurant is another highlight, serving locally sourced food with a Mediterranean twist.

There's loads to keep you busy in Ipswich, and much of the town is easy to explore on foot. Start at the waterfront, where old warehouses now sit alongside boats, waterside bars and restaurants, then head into the centre to browse the shops and admire the timber-framed Ancient House. Christchurch Mansion is well worth a visit for its art and period interiors, while the surrounding Christchurch Park is a lovely spot for a wander. You can also catch a show at the New Wolsey Theatre or use Ipswich as a base for exploring Suffolk's pretty villages and coastline.

Scroll down the page for our full selection of recommended hotels in Ipswich or, for a look at the wider area, read our guide to the best places to stay in Suffolk.

The Best Places to Stay in Ipswich

On the Waterfront

• Salthouse Harbour Hotel was converted from a salt warehouse. Its 70 rooms and suites are spacious and well laid out, with the exposed brickwork and industrial pillars of the original building design, but plenty of comfy details and contemporary art on the walls. Our favourite rooms have water views, as do the restaurant and bar, which specialises in local, sustainable produce with a Mediterranean twist.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option, browse the wide range available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• You can get to Ipswich from London in just over an hour by public transport, or in about an hour and a half by car. If you’re thinking of flying in, the closest international airport as the crow flies is probably Norwich International Airport, just over an hour away from Ipswich by car or taxi, or an hour and 20 minutes away by public transport. London City Airport is about an hour and a half away by rail, and the same by car or taxi.
• If you want to hire a car, we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Ipswich is a year-round destination, ideal for an historic escape or mini-break. There’s plenty to do indoors and out, so there’s no reason you wouldn’t visit during the less-reliable weather seasons, but if you’re hoping for great weather, the drier, sunnier months are in late spring and summer, or between about April and September.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include the best places to stay in Suffolk or just the best places to stay in nearby Lavenham, Colchester or Bury St Edmunds,
• Search for the kind of accommodation you’re looking for, for example, the best pubs with rooms in Suffolk,
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.