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Welcome to Issue #17 of Ipswich Local! 🎉

Your weekly guide to everything happening in Ipswich is here! Each week, we bring you:

✅ Local news updates – The stories that matter in our town
✅ What’s on this week – Events, theatre, gigs & more
✅ Cinema listings – The must-watch films in Ipswich
✅ Food & drink highlights – Where to eat & special deals
✅ Weather forecast – Plan your week with ease
✅ Exclusive offers & community perks – Just for our subscribers!

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Now, let’s dive into this week’s weather, top stories, events, and must-know updates…👇

🍷 Win a £50 Voucher for Bistro on the Quay!

REPLY "Bistro" TO EVERY NEWSLETTER FOR EXTRA ENTRIES.

We’ve got another tasty giveaway—and entering couldn’t be easier.

Just hit "Reply" to this email and type the word: Bistro

That’s it. You’ll be entered into a draw to win a £50 dining voucher for Bistro on the Quay, one of Ipswich’s most popular waterside restaurants.

Expect beautifully presented seasonal dishes, elegant surroundings, and a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a romantic treat by the waterfront.

🌟 Whether you're into pan-roasted sea bass, slow-braised lamb shoulder, or wild mushroom risotto, there's something for everyone on their stylish menu.

🍽️ One lucky winner will receive a £50 voucher to spend at Bistro on the Quay. Drinks are not included. The voucher is non-transferable, has no resale value, and the winner’s name will be printed on it—proof of ID may be required when redeeming.

🗓️ Deadline to enter: Monday, 30 June 2025

📢 Winner announced: Tuesday, 1 July 2025

View Bistro on The Quay Here:

Weather Forecast For Ipswich

🌦 Weekly Weather Summary – Ipswich

This week brings a real mix of weather across Ipswich. Expect cloudy skies to start, with a few light showers lingering through Tuesday.

Things brighten up midweek, bringing some welcome sunshine and warmer temperatures. By Thursday and Friday, it’s feeling much more like summer, with highs touching the mid-20s.

The weekend looks promising too—Saturday is the pick of the bunch for any outdoor plans, while Sunday cools slightly with a chance of a passing shower. Don’t forget the sun cream... and maybe still keep the brolly handy!

Latest Weather Forecast

Local News Highlights 📰

Stay informed with the latest updates from Ipswich. Here are this week’s top local stories:

Goodbye Cashiers: Ipswich Station’s Co-op Goes Fully Self-Serve

Shoppers at Ipswich Station will now be greeted by a completely new kind of convenience store—one without a single human cashier.

The East of England Co-op has unveiled a fully self-service store at the station, featuring only card and contactless payments, with no option for cash and no manned tills.

Despite the change, the retailer is confident that advanced technology and carefully designed security measures will keep the store safe, efficient, and ready to serve busy travellers.

💬 What do you think?

Would you feel comfortable shopping in a store with no staff—just cameras and machines?

Or do you think removing human cashiers crosses a line?

Hit reply and share your opinion. We’ll include some anonymous responses in next week’s issue.

Read The Full story

Suffolk Firms Named and Shamed Over Minimum Wage Failures

Several Suffolk businesses have been publicly listed by the government for failing to pay workers the legal minimum wage.

The named companies span a range of industries, including retail and hospitality, and have been ordered to repay underpaid staff alongside financial penalties.

The move forms part of an effort to hold employers accountable and ensure fair treatment in the workplace.

Sources: Ipswich Star

Read the Full Story

CabsSmart Taxi company Ipswich
Visit Cabssmart

Police Appeal After Daylight Robbery at Ipswich Phone Shop

Suffolk Police have launched an appeal following a bold daylight robbery at a mobile phone store in Ipswich town centre.

Three masked men entered the shop on Tavern Street around 1pm, threatened staff, and escaped with a quantity of mobile phones and accessories. Officers responded swiftly and cordoned off the area while investigations got underway.

Police are now asking for witnesses, especially anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage from the area, to help track down those responsible.

Read More.....

Cars parked on a drive

New UK Driveway Law Could Catch Out Millions of Drivers

A major rule change affecting private driveways across the UK is now in force—and it could impact homeowners and drivers in ways they haven’t considered.

The new regulation has sparked confusion and concern, particularly around what is now legally required when selling or renting a home. Here’s what you need to know to stay on the right side of the law.

Click on the button below to read the full story story

Sources: Express

Read The Full Story
What's on Ipswich

What’s On This Week in Ipswich 🎭🎶

Looking for something to do in Ipswich this week? Here are some of the top events happening around town. If you have an event, and would like it added please email info@ipswichlocal.com

📅 Monday 9th June

🎤 Karaoke at The Black Horse (The Classic Element)

📅 Monday, 9 June 2025

🕗 Time: From 8:00pm

📍 Location: The Black Horse, 23 Black Horse Lane, Ipswich, IP1 2EF

🎶 Start your week on a high note with Monday Madness Karaoke, hosted by Purple Star Karaoke at The Black Horse! Whether you're a seasoned performer or a first-time singer, you're the star of the show.

With thousands of tracks to choose from via online songbooks or a handy jukebox-style kiosk, it’s never been easier to find your perfect song. Fancy a theme? They’re totally optional. Just bring your voice and your vibe.

✍️ Write down your favourites in advance or browse on the night—pens and paper are still welcome! The team runs a fair rotation so everyone gets their time to shine.

🎟️ Entry: Free

Click Here For More Info

Smock Darts Grand Prix

📅 Tuesday 10th June

🎯 Darts Grand Prix at The Smock Public House

🎯 Darts Grand Prix at The Smock Public House

📅 Tuesday, 10 June 2025

🕖 Time: 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm

📍 Location: The Smock Public House, 80 Belstead Avenue, Maidenhall Approach, Ipswich, IP2 8NG

Step up to the oche for the Darts Grand Prix – a thrilling leg-based tournament that’s part of a summer-long series across Suffolk. With a £1,000 first prize at stake and qualification points for the grand final in August, this event is perfect for local darts fans and competitive players alike.

Enjoy a great atmosphere, pints on tap, and sharp competition. Play seven or more events across the series to qualify for the finals!

🎟️ Entry: Check with venue or organiser for details

Click Here For More Info

Chef's Big Quiz at Venue16

📅 Wednesday 11th June

❓ Chef’s Big Quiz at Venue16

📅 Wednesday, 11 June 2025

🕡 Time: 6:45 pm – 11:00 pm

📍 Location: Venue16, 312 Tuddenham Road, Ipswich, IP4 3QJ

Gather your brainiest buddies for a fun-filled evening of trivia at Venue16's popular Chef’s Big Quiz. With a lively atmosphere, great food and drink, it’s the perfect midweek outing to test your general knowledge—and maybe win a prize too!

🎟️ Tickets: Available via Venue16 for £7.50

Click Here For More Info

Up close With the Blues at Isaacs on the Quay Ipswich

📅 Thursday 12th June

🪕 Up Close with the Blues – Giles Robson Live

📅 Thursday, 12 June 2025

🕖 Time: From 7:00 pm

📍 Location: Isaacs on the Quay, 7 Wherry Quay, Ipswich, IP4 1AS

Treat yourself to an intimate evening with Giles Robson, one of the world’s leading blues harmonica virtuosos. After a phenomenal 10-night sell-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe, this special “Up Close with the Blues” show brings warmth, humour, and mesmerising technique straight to Ipswich. Expect soulful vocals, powerful harmonica—and a truly immersive performance in a cosy riverside setting. 🎶

🎟️ Entry: Tickets required—book early for this unique experience

Click Here For More Info

Ipswich Town FC Recruitment Event

📅 Thursday 12th June

🧢 Ipswich Town FC Recruitment Event

📅 Thursday, 12 June 2025

🕒 Time: 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm

📍 Location: Portman Road (Beattie's), Ipswich

Interested in getting involved with Ipswich Town FC? They’re hosting a recruitment event for various matchday roles—everything from fan guides and hospitality to supporter engagement and disability services. Whether you'd love to volunteer or aim to work on matchdays, this is a great opportunity to explore available positions and meet the team.

🎟️ Entry: Free — No tickets needed, just turn up

Click Here For More Info

Brighten the corners Music Event

📅 Friday 13th June

🎶 Brighten The Corners Festival – Day 1

📅 Friday, 13 June 2025

🕔 Time: From 5:00 pm

📍 Location: Various venues across Ipswich (The Baths, The Smokehouse, St Stephen’s Church, Corn Exchange, Cornhill)

Ipswich’s premier multi‑venue live music festival returns for 2025. Friday’s lineup features headliners Dry Cleaning, with performances across five iconic locations. Expect an eclectic mix from emerging and established artists in a vibrant, city‑wide celebration of sound.

🎟️ Tickets: Day passes available now

Click Here For More Info

The Greatest MUSICALS Disco - Ipswich

📅 Friday 13th June

🎭 The Greatest MUSICALS Disco at Three Wise Monkeys

📅 Friday, 13 June 2025

🕗 Time: 8:00 pm – 12:00 am

📍 Location: Three Wise Monkeys, Ipswich

Get ready for a theatrical explosion of music hits with songs from Hamilton, Grease, Dirty Dancing, Six, and more! Expect lip‑sync battles, audience props, optional fancy dress, plus prizes and plenty of fun. A perfect way to let loose and sing your heart out with fellow musical theatre fans.

🎟️ Tickets: Available now

A night of Motown at Venue16 Ipswich

📅 Friday 13th June

🎤 A Night Of Motown at Venue16

📅 Friday, 13 June 2025

🕖 Time: 7:00 pm – 11:59 pm

📍 Location: Venue16, 312 Tuddenham Road, Ipswich, IP4 3QJ

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening celebrating the golden era of Motown! Enjoy stellar live tributes to Diana Ross and Aretha Franklin, all while savouring a delicious two-course meal included in the ticket price. Perfect for lovers of soul, R&B, and classic Motown hits.

🎟️ Tickets: £49.50 per person

Click Here For More Info

Brighten The Corners Festival

📅 Saturday 14th June

🎵 Brighten The Corners Festival – Day 2

📅 Saturday, 14 June 2025

🕑 Time: From 2:00 pm

📍 Location: Various venues across Ipswich (The Baths, The Smokehouse, St Stephen’s Church, Corn Exchange, Cornhill)

Experience the second day of Ipswich’s premier multi‑venue music festival. Saturday brings another wave of headline performances—for example, grime‑punk duo Bob Vylan takes centre stage—plus a packed lineup across five venues. Expect an unforgettable blend of post‑punk, indie, world music, DJ sets, and more. Plus, enjoy free live music on the Cornhill during the day.

🎟️ Tickets: Saturday day tickets are available now

Click Here For More Info & Tickets

Jazz at The Waterfront ipswich

📅 Saturday 14th June

🎷 Jazz by the Waterfront at St Peter’s by the Waterfront

📅 Saturday, 14 June 2025

🕢 Time: 7:30 pm

📍 Location: St Peter’s by the Waterfront, College Street, Ipswich, IP4 1BF

Enjoy an evening of smooth jazz, funk, and soul performed by Tristan, a talented Netherlands-based band known for their captivating live shows by the waterside. The cosy setting of this historic venue makes it a perfect night out for music lovers seeking a relaxed atmosphere.

🎟️ Entry: Tickets likely needed—check the link

Click Here For More Info & Tickets

📅 Saturday 14th June

🎨 Open Tours at Ipswich Museum and Christchurch Mansion

📅 Saturday, 14 June 2025

🕑 Time: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

📍 Location: Ipswich Museum (High Street, IP1 3QH) & Christchurch Mansion (Christchurch Park)

Enjoy a self‑guided tour through Ipswich’s cultural landmarks. Ipswich Museum reopens its main galleries, and Christchurch Mansion—free to enter—offers beautifully preserved historic rooms, fine art, and local heritage exhibits.

🎟️ Entry: Free

Click Here For More Info

Valdez Live at The Plough Ipswich

📅 Saturday 14th June

🎵 Valdez Live at Plough Ipswich

📅 Saturday, 14 June 2025

🕘 Time: 9:30 pm – 1:30 am

📍 Location: Plough Ipswich, 2 Dogs Head Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AD

Get ready to dance the night away to pop and rock covers by the energetic band Valdez. Expect 2-for-1 cocktails and burger + drink deals to fuel the festivities. Perfect for an upbeat, late-night adventure with friends!

🎟️ Entry: Book early to avoid disappointment

Click Here For More Info

Taste of East Anglia Food & Drink Festival 2025

📅 Saturday 14th June

🍽️ Taste of East Anglia Food & Drink Festival 2025

📅 Saturday, 14 June 2025

🕙 Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

📍 Location: Kentwell Hall, Long Melford, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 9BA

Enjoy a full day of foodie heaven at one of the region’s favourite festivals! Set against the backdrop of Kentwell Hall, this family-friendly celebration brings together over 60 local producers, sizzling street food, refreshing craft drinks, chef demos, and live music all day long.

It’s a laid-back countryside vibe with something delicious for everyone—from handmade chocolates and wood-fired pizza to artisan spirits and Suffolk cider. Kids under 12 go free, and dogs on leads are welcome!

🎟️ Tickets: £7.50 in advance / £10 on the gate

Click Here For More Info

Race for life ipswich

📅 Sunday 15th June

🎉 Suffolk Comic Con 2025 – Trinity Park, Ipswich

📅 Sunday, 15 June 2025

🕚 Time: 11:00 am

📍 Location: Trinity Park, Ipswich

Join this inspiring 5k walk or run to support Cancer Research UK. Open to all fitness levels—every stride funds vital cancer research.

🎟️ Tickets available online

Click For More Info:

Isaacs on the quay music events

📅 Sunday 15th June

🎶 Live Music: Lucky No. 7 at Isaacs on the Quay

📅 Sunday, 15 June 2025

🕒 Time: 3:00 pm

📍 Location: Isaacs on the Quay, 7 Wherry Quay, Ipswich, IP4 1AS

Kick back with some live tunes by Lucky No. 7 at this riverside hotspot. Expect a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere, great drinks, and fun music – perfect for a chilled-out Sunday session.

Click Here for Info & Tickets

Food and Drink

🍽️ This Week’s Food & Drink Recommendations
This week we have looked for a couple of restaurants out of the area.

Spoon ultimate world buffet

🍴 Restaurant Review: Spoon World Buffet Ipswich

Located on St Matthew’s Street, Spoon World Buffet brings the flavours of the world to Ipswich in one generous, all-you-can-eat experience. With dishes inspired by Asia, Europe, and beyond, it's a go-to spot for families, friends, and big appetites.

✨ The Vibe

Spacious, lively, and modern, the layout is designed for easy browsing of each food station. Expect bustling energy at peak times and plenty of room for larger groups. The interior blends clean lines with warm tones, and staff are helpful and welcoming without hovering too much.

🍽️ What’s Cooking?

Global cuisine from Chinese stir-fries to Indian curries and Italian pastas

Live teppanyaki and grill stations for a made-to-order touch

Sushi, pizza, and noodles alongside traditional British favourites

A tempting dessert section featuring cakes, ice cream, and a chocolate fountain

Soft drinks, cocktails, and wine options available at the bar

🌟 Highlights from Local Diners

Diners often mention the unbeatable variety and generous value. One guest said, “A fantastic place to take the whole family — there's something for even the fussiest eater.” Others highlight the freshness of the teppanyaki and how easy it is to try new flavours in one sitting.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – “A fun, no-fuss way to taste the world without leaving Ipswich.”

📍 Location: 23–29 St Matthew’s Street, Ipswich, IP1 3EL

⏰ Opening Hours:

Monday – Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Friday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

View Menu & Book a Table
Chequers Indian Lounge

🍴 Restaurant Review: Chequers Indian Lounge, Ipswich

Tucked away in the village of Great Blakenham, just outside Ipswich, Chequers Indian Lounge serves up classic Indian dishes in a stylish, modern setting. With a loyal local following and a menu full of rich, vibrant flavours, it’s a top choice for curry lovers looking for something a little more refined.

✨ The Vibe

The restaurant blends modern design with subtle Eastern touches — think soft lighting, plush seating, and a calm, polished feel. It’s the kind of place that feels just as right for a casual weeknight meal as it does for a special evening out. Staff are warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

🍽️ What’s Cooking?

Traditional Indian cuisine with bold, well-balanced flavours

Popular mains include Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb Jalfrezi, and King Prawn Bhuna

Crisp starters like Onion Bhaji and Chicken Pakora

Fluffy naans and spiced rice dishes that make perfect accompaniments

Ice cream and sweet treats available for dessert

A selection of wines, beers, and soft drinks to round out your meal

🌟 Highlights from Local Diners

Regulars often mention the generous portion sizes and the quality of the ingredients. One happy guest commented, “The Chicken Tikka was packed with flavour and cooked to perfection.” Many return for the peaceful setting and consistently great service.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – “A warm welcome, rich flavours, and top-quality dishes — everything you want from a great Indian restaurant.”

📍 Location: 19 Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham, Ipswich, IP6 0LP

⏰ Opening Hours:

Monday – Sunday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM

View Menu or book Table
What's on at Ipswich cinemas

Cinema Listings – What’s Showing in Ipswich? 🎬

Looking for a movie night this week? Here are some of the top films now showing at Cineworld Ipswich & Kings Street cinema Ipswich.

Cineworld Ipswich

🎬 Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning (12A)

📅 Showing: Monday 9th June – Thursday 12th June 2025

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning marks the dramatic conclusion to Ethan Hunt’s decades-long journey. Faced with a threat that could destroy the world, Hunt must choose between the mission and the lives of those he cares about most.

With jaw-dropping stunts, globe-trotting action, and emotional depth, this final chapter delivers everything fans love about the franchise—turned up to eleven.

🎞️ Click Here To Watch The Video Trailer

Click Here to book Tickets

Cineworld Ipswich

🎬 Final Destination: Bloodlines (15)

📅 Showing: Monday 9th June – Thursday 12th June 2025

📍 Location: Cineworld Ipswich, Cardinal Park, Grafton Way, Ipswich, IP1 1AX

The terrifying franchise returns with Final Destination: Bloodlines, a chilling new chapter that explores the dark origins of death’s design. When a group of strangers narrowly escape a deadly disaster, they quickly discover that fate always finds a way.

Expect inventive and gruesome set pieces, nerve-shredding suspense, and the return of the twisted rules that have made Final Destination a cult horror favourite.

🎞️ Click Here To Watch The Video Trailer

Click Here to book Tickets

Cineworld Ipswich

🎬 Ballerina (15)


📅 Showing: Monday 9th June – Thursday 12th June 2025

📍 Location: Cineworld Ipswich, Cardinal Park, Grafton Way, Ipswich, IP1 1AX

Set in the John Wick universe, Ballerina follows Rooney, a young assassin seeking vengeance for the murder of her family. Trained in a secret ballet academy that doubles as a brutal training ground for killers, her path leads her deep into a world of violence, loyalty, and betrayal.

With elegant action choreography and a darkly stylised backdrop, Ballerina brings a fresh, female-led intensity to the iconic franchise.

🎞️ Click Here To Watch The Video Trailer

Click Here to book Tickets

Omniplex Cinema Ipswich

🎬 Ocean with David Attenborough (TBC)

📅 Showing: Monday 9th June – Thursday 12th June 2025

📍 Location: Omniplex Cinema Ipswich, Cardinal Drive, Ipswich, IP3 8DT

A breathtaking visual journey led by Sir David Attenborough, exploring the vital wonders of our oceans—from coral reefs to the deep sea—highlighting why they are essential for life on Earth.


🎞️ Click Here To Watch The Video Trailer

Click Here to book Tickets

Omniplex Cinema Ipswich

🎬 The Salt Path (12A)

📅 Showing: Monday 9th June – Thursday 12th June 2025

📍 Location: Omniplex Cinema Ipswich, Cardinal Drive, Ipswich, IP3 8DT

Based on the bestselling memoir, The Salt Path tells the moving true story of a couple who, after losing everything, embark on a year-long coastal trek that's both physically and emotionally transformative.

🎞️ Click here to Watch the trailer

Click Here For More info

Omniplex Cinema Ipswich

🎬 Dangerous Animals (15)

📅 Showing: Monday 9th June – Thursday 12th June 2025

📍 Location: Omniplex Cinema Ipswich, Cardinal Drive, Ipswich, IP3 8DT

When a struggling author finds himself entangled with a mysterious woman and her criminal brother, a simple favour spirals into a deadly game. Dangerous Animals is a gripping British thriller packed with tension, twists, and morally murky decisions that will keep you guessing until the final frame.

🎞️ Click here to Watch the trailer

Click Here For More info

King Street Cinema

🎬 The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (4K Restoration) (18)

📅 Showing: Friday, 14 June 2025

📍 Location: King Street Cinema, Corn Exchange, King Street, Ipswich, IP1 1DH

Celebrate 50 years of horror with this brand-new 4K restoration of Tobe Hooper’s iconic slasher. Follow five friends as they stumble into a nightmare in rural Texas—and discover the terrifying legend of Leatherface. Blood-curdling cinematic history.

🎞️ Click here to Watch the trailer

Click Here For More info

10% off Servicing

🚐 10% Off Servicing at Nomad Hippo – Exclusive for Ipswich Local Readers!

Got a campervan, motorhome, or adventure vehicle that needs servicing? 🛠️ Nomad Hippo is offering Ipswich Local subscribers an exclusive 10% discount on all servicing!

🔧 Expert servicing & maintenance for campervans and motorhomes
🌍 Specialists in overlanding and off-grid vehicle solutions
💰 Exclusive Deal: Mention Ipswich Local and get 10% off servicing!

📍 Location: Unit 9 Brookhouse Business Park, Hadleigh Road Ind Estate, Ipswich, IP2 0EF

🔗 Book your service here: www.nomadhippo.co.uk

Get Featured – Let’s Grow Ipswich Local Together! 🚀

Ipswich LIpswich Local is all about community, charity, and championing local businesses — and we want YOU to be part of it! Here's how you can get involved:

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We’re looking for exclusive offers for our subscribers! Your special deal helps attract more readers, drives new customers to you, and raises more sponsorship for Suffolk charities. We’ll showcase your business in our Subscriber Perks section — it’s a win for everyone!

📅 Running an event?

Tell us about it! We’ll feature your event in our What’s On This Week guide to help spread the word.

📰 Got a story or news tip?

We love sharing local news. Send us your story and we might highlight it in our Local News section.

💌 Email us now at info@ipswichlocal.com or just reply to this newsletter!

📞 Want to chat instead?

Call Gary Hickman on 07983 299463 — let’s make something great happen together!

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