River walks and John Peel in Stowmarket
Stowmarket is a pretty market town in Suffolk, around 10 miles from Ipswich and a handy stop en route from the ports of Felixstowe and Harwich. As it stands on the River Gipping, it's a great starting point for riverside walks, taking you through some lovely countryside. A must-see for culture vultures is the John Peel Centre, a creative arts hub founded in honour of the ground-breaking DJ who lived in the area for many years before his death in 2004. See live music, comedy, theatre and poetry in this beautifully converted corn exchange.
UNearth treasures at the Museum of East Anglian Life
Spread across 80 acres of farmland, this hands-on museum is full of exhibits from Suffolk's agricultural past. Explore the collection of restored historic buildings to learn about local crafts and culture, including the blacksmith's forge and watermill. See powerful steam engines in action and make friends with Suffolk Punch horses and rare breeds of cattle and sheep.
Unwind on Ipswich Waterfront
Ipswich has been a port since Saxon times, and used to be a trading hub for wool and grain. These days, it's a lively food and entertainment hub, with shiny bars, shops and restaurants hugging the waterfront. Take a boat trip on the River Orwell, or tuck into Chinese-inspired seafood dishes at 92 Noodle Bar on the quay. Looking for accommodation in Stowmarket? Travelodge Ipswich Stowmarket Hotel is handily placed, just a 5-minute drive from the town. Travelodge Ipswich Beacon Hill Hotel is also Nearby.