View this email in browser

Welcome to Ipswich Local – Your Weekly Guide to What’s Happening in Town!

Hello {{contact.first_name}}

Welcome to Issue #23 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!

Why Stay subscribed?

Ipswich Local is completely free, and 100% of sponsorship revenue goes to charity. By reading and sharing, you’re not just staying informed—you’re helping support local Suffolk charities through the Operation Santa Appeal.

💙 Help Us Grow!
Enjoying Ipswich Local? Share it with a friend or family member who’d love to stay in the loop with what’s happening in our town! They can subscribe here: www.ipswichlocal.co.uk

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

🍽️ Win a £50 Voucher for The Mariners Restaurant — Dining on the Waterfront

REPLY "Mariners" TO EVERY NEWSLETTER FOR EXTRA ENTRIES.

We’re back with another mouth-watering giveaway—this time, it’s something a little special.

Just reply to this email and type the word: Mariners

That’s all you need to do to enter the draw for a £50 dining voucher at The Mariners Restaurant—a truly unique dining experience aboard a beautiful restored Belgian gunboat, moored right on Ipswich Waterfront.

🚤 Yes, it’s a restaurant on a boat! Expect a warm welcome, waterside views, and seasonal French-British cuisine served with flair and finesse.

🌟 Highlights from the menu include dishes like:

Wild Mushroom & Truffle Tortellini

Roast Rack of Lamb with Dauphinoise

Cornish Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce

Tarte Tatin with Calvados Ice Cream

Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a celebratory dinner, or just love the idea of eating excellent food on the water, The Mariners offers a setting like no other.

🎁 One lucky winner will receive a £50 voucher. Drinks 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: Sunday, 28 July 2025

📢 Winner announced: Monday, 29 July 2025

View Mariners Restaurant Here:

☀️ Ipswich Weekly Weather: Light Showers Give Way to Warmer, Brighter Days

Sponsored by Cabssmart – Your Local Ride, Anytime

Ipswich is set for a classic British summer pattern this week—mild and mostly dry, with a few light showers early on giving way to more settled and warmer conditions by the weekend.

🌡️ Highs & Lows: Expect daytime temperatures between 21 °C and 24 °C, with overnight lows around 12–14 °C. Comfortable, pleasant weather throughout—no heatwaves or chill.

Early Week (Mon–Wed):

Monday starts off bright and pleasant, with temperatures peaking at 24 °C. Tuesday is more overcast, bringing cooler highs around 21 °C. On Wednesday, expect a dry start with increasing cloud and the possibility of a few afternoon showers.

Mid to Late Week (Thu–Sun):

Thursday stays rather cloudy, with light showers expected later in the day. Friday and Saturday look like the best picks—warmer, brighter, and mostly dry, great for getting out and about. Sunday sees more cloud cover again, with a slight chance of rain, but still relatively warm and mild.

Perfect for day trips, pub gardens, or lazy strolls by the water—just don’t forget a light layer for the evenings.

🚕 Heading out? Cabssmart’s got you covered. From morning errands to late-night pick-ups, book your ride with just a tap.

🌟 This Week’s Local Hero: Little Acorns Fostering

Every child deserves a safe, loving home—and Little Acorns Fostering is helping make that happen right here in our community.

If you’ve ever thought about fostering, now might be the time. With full training, 24/7 support, and generous allowances, it could be one of the most rewarding things you ever do.

Local News Highlights 📰

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

🚨 Ipswich News: Prisoner Absconds from Hollesley Bay

Police are appealing to the public after Richard Leslie, a 47-year-old inmate at Hollesley Bay open prison, was reported missing on Sunday. He failed to return during a scheduled period and has now been officially recorded as being at large.

Leslie is described as 5ft 10in tall, of medium build, with short dark hair. He is known to have links to the Ipswich area, and officers are urging anyone who may have seen him to get in touch immediately.

The public is advised not to approach Leslie if spotted, but to contact police with any sightings or information. Investigations are ongoing to trace his movements and return him to custody.

🔪 Ipswich News: Teen Fined £800 for Carrying Knife in Public

A 17-year-old from Ipswich has been fined £800 after being caught carrying a knife in Rendlesham. The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was stopped by police and found to be in possession of the weapon without any lawful excuse.

The court also ordered the teen to pay £85 in costs and a £320 victim surcharge, sending a clear message about the seriousness of knife offences.

Police have stressed the importance of community safety and continue to carry out regular stop and search operations to tackle the issue of knife crime in the region.

🎥 Watchlist Picks of the Week

Each week we spotlight two of the most talked-about shows or films streaming right now — and let you know if they’re worth your time.

📺 TV Show Review: Unforgivable (BBC Two / iPlayer)

🔎 What’s the Story?

From acclaimed writer Jimmy McGovern, Unforgivable is a gripping new BBC drama that tackles themes of trauma, justice, and the fragility of family bonds. It follows Anna Mitchell (Anna Friel) as she struggles to rebuild her life after discovering her teenage son was abused by a trusted family member. Now, with the offender’s release from prison, Anna is forced to confront painful truths and the question of whether forgiveness is ever possible.

✨ The Setup

Anna’s world has collapsed. While trying to hold her family together, she faces anger, guilt, and a system that often fails victims. Each episode peels back the layers of this emotional story, exploring loyalty, betrayal, and the ripple effects of one devastating act.

🎭 The Vibe.

Raw, uncompromising, and deeply human. Unforgivable avoids sensationalism, opting for realism and emotional honesty that stays with you long after the credits roll.

🌟 Standout Performances

• Anna Friel delivers a stunning, layered performance as a mother torn between rage and resilience.

• A strong supporting cast adds nuance, portraying the silent costs of trauma on families and communities.

📅 Release Date: 24th July 2025

📋 Final Verdict

if you value challenging, thought-provoking drama that dives into the hardest questions about love, loss, and moral responsibility.

📸 Image: mage: Courtesy of Netflix

📺 TV Show Review: Sneaky Pete (Prime Video)

🔎 What’s the Story?

From executive producers Bryan Cranston and David Shore, Sneaky Pete is a slick crime drama with a con-artist twist. The series follows Marius Josipović (Giovanni Ribisi), a skilled grifter who assumes the identity of his former cellmate, Pete, after being released from prison. His plan? Hide from a ruthless gangster by blending into Pete’s estranged family—only to discover they have secrets of their own.

✨ The Setup

Fresh out of jail, Marius isn’t looking for redemption—he’s looking to survive. Slipping into Pete’s shoes seems easy at first, but his new “family” runs a bail bond business, pulling him into a dangerous world of fugitives, scams, and tangled loyalties. Each episode ups the ante, blending tense cons with unexpected emotional stakes.

🎭 The Vibe

Think Better Call Saul meets Ozark. Tense, clever, and character-driven, Sneaky Pete thrives on its morally grey protagonist and the constant dance between truth and deception. It’s equal parts cat-and-mouse thriller and family drama, with a razor-sharp edge.

🌟 Standout Performances

• Giovanni Ribisi delivers a nuanced performance, balancing charm, desperation, and intelligence.

• Margo Martindale is phenomenal as Audrey, the tough yet warm matriarch who anchors the show with grit and heart.

• Bryan Cranston’s guest role as the menacing gangster Vince adds extra gravitas to an already strong cast..

🎥 Worth Watching?

Absolutely—if you love clever crime dramas with layered characters, high-stakes cons, and twists that keep you guessing. Sneaky Pete is binge-worthy, with each season tightening the noose in thrilling, unexpected ways.

📸 Image: mage: Courtesy of Prime Video

📺 TV Show Review: Code of Silence (ITV)

🔎 What’s the Story?

Code of Silence is a tense new ITV crime thriller that plunges viewers into the murky world of law enforcement, loyalty, and corruption. When Detective Sarah Collins stumbles upon a conspiracy within her own force, she faces a chilling dilemma: protect her career or blow the whistle and risk everything.

✨ The Setup

As Sarah digs deeper, the line between right and wrong blurs. Colleagues become suspects, and secrets pile up in a system designed to protect itself. Each episode ratchets up the suspense, revealing shocking betrayals and the high cost of truth.

🎭 The Vibe

Dark, gripping, and loaded with moral complexity. Code of Silence combines the emotional intensity of a character-driven drama with the pulse of a crime thriller, keeping you hooked until the very last twist..

🌟 Standout Performances

• A powerhouse lead performance captures the inner conflict of a woman torn between justice and survival.

• A stellar supporting cast adds depth, with every character hiding something beneath the surface.

📅 Release Date: July 2025

🎥 Worth Watching?

Yes—especially if you love crime dramas that make you question where loyalty ends and justice begins. Smart, suspenseful, and full of surprises, Code of Silence will leave you counting the days until the next episode.

📸 Image: mage: Courtesy of ITV

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

🌞 Featured Event: Theatre School Workshop 2025

Hosted by: Ipswich Theatres

📅 When: Monday, 4th – Friday, 8th August 2025
📍 Where: Regent Theatre, St Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE

🎭 What’s On?

• A week-long creative workshop for young performers aged 7–16

• Professional theatre coaches guiding acting, singing, and movement

• Build confidence, make new friends, and perform on a real stage

🎟️ Tickets: £190 per participant
Spaces are limited—book early to secure your place!

✅ Why You’ll Love It

• A fantastic opportunity to learn from industry professionals

• Hands-on experience in one of Ipswich’s most iconic theatres

• The week ends with a live performance for family and friends

📅 Monday 28 July (For Five Weeks)

🌞 FREE Summer Holiday Activities

📅 5 weeks starting Monday, 28th July 2025
📍 Fresh Start Charity Shop, 29–31 Carr Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HA

Looking for something fun and educational to keep the kids entertained this summer? Fresh Start Charity is running a packed programme of FREE activities for children and young people.

From arts & crafts for little ones to cookery classes, barista training, and upcycling furniture projects for teens and young adults, there’s something for everyone. Plus, a dedicated youth club for ages 14–19 offers a great place to socialise in a safe, friendly space.

✅ Completely FREE – no cost to join
✅ For ages 3–25 (activities tailored by age group)
✅ Small class sizes (max 8) – booking required

Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out!

📅 Monday 28 July

🎤 Karaoke Night at The Black Horsel

📅 When: Monday, 28th July 2025 – 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
📍 Where: The Black Horse Inn, 23 Black Horse Lane, Ipswich, IP1 2EF

Love to sing? Warm up those vocal cords and join the fun at Karaoke Night hosted by Purple Star Karaoke. Whether you’re a budding superstar or just want to belt out your favourite tunes, this is the perfect way to kick off the week.

✅ Free entry – everyone welcome
✅ Great pub atmosphere and plenty of song choices

📅 Tuesday 29 July - Thursday 31 July

🐑 Woolly’s Water Trail

📅 Ongoing through Summer 2025

📍 Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich

Help Woolly the Mammoth on a Splash-tastic Adventure!

Woolly needs your help! 🐘💦 Dive into this family-friendly water trail around Christchurch Mansion and discover fascinating facts about water through fun challenges and activities.

Perfect for kids and families, this self-guided trail combines learning with adventure – explore, solve puzzles, and see if you can complete Woolly’s watery quest!

✅ Included with general admission

✅ Suitable for all ages

📍 Location:

Christchurch Mansion

Christchurch Park, Ipswich

📅 Friday 1 August

😂 Ipswich Big Comedy Club Night with Gary Delaney

📅 When: Friday, 1st August 2025
📍 Where: Venue 16, 312 Tuddenham Road, Ipswich, IP4 3QJ

Get ready for an unforgettable night of laughter! Gary Delaney, star of Mock the Week and the UK’s king of one-liners, headlines an evening packed with top comedy talent. This Big Comedy Clubnight is perfect for a fun night out with friends, great food, and a lively atmosphere.

✅ Top-quality comedy in a fantastic venue
✅ Bar and food available
✅ Ideal for a summer night out

🎟️ Tickets on sale now – book early to secure your seats!

Friday 1 August

🎸 The Three Chordettes Live at Briarbank Brewery

📅 When: Friday, 1st August 2025 – 8:00 PM
📍 Where: Briarbank Brewery, 70 Fore Street, Ipswich, IP4 1LB
📞 Phone: 01473 284000

Kick off your weekend with great music and even better beer! The Three Chordettes will be performing live, delivering a mix of rock, pop, and acoustic classics in the laid-back setting of Briarbank Brewery.

✅ Free entry – everyone welcome
✅ Fantastic atmosphere and award-winning beers

📅 Friday 1 August

🎶 Pretty Wasted Live at The Smokehouse

📅 When: Friday, 1st August 2025 – Doors open 7:30 PM
📍 Where: The Smokehouse, South Street Studios, Ipswich, IP1 3NU

Kick off your weekend with a blast of punk energy! Pretty Wasted are hitting the stage at The Smokehouse for a night of raw riffs, bold lyrics, and unfiltered attitude. Perfect for fans of alternative and punk rock, this gig promises to deliver the underground sound Ipswich loves.

✅ Great live venue – up close and personal
✅ Ideal Friday night for live music lovers

🎟️ Tickets available now – don’t miss out!

📅 Saturday 2 August

🎸 Live Music: Gridlock at The Black Horse Inn

📅 When: Saturday, 2nd August 2025 – from 9:00 PM
📍 Where: The Black Horse Inn, 23 Black Horse Lane, Ipswich, IP1 2EF

Get ready for a night of pure rock energy! Gridlock, a five-piece classic hard rock covers band, will be blasting out hits from the 60s to the 90s. Expect powerful renditions of legendary tracks from AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Guns N' Roses, Aerosmith, Motörhead, Foo Fighters, ZZ Top, and more.

✅ Free entry – no ticket required
✅ Great atmosphere in one of Ipswich’s favourite pubs
✅ The perfect Saturday night for rock fans

🎤 Band Line-up:
Matt (Vocals) | Ian (Lead Guitar) | Rob (Rhythm Guitar) | Steve (Drums) | Jim (Bass)

📅 Saturday 2 August

🎵 Noiseless + BHibiscusHaze + Starcrossed at The Smokehouse

📅 When: Saturday, 2nd August 2025 – Doors open 7:30 PM
📍 Where: The Smokehouse, South Street Studios, Ipswich, IP1 3NU

Experience an incredible night of live music featuring Noiseless, BHibiscusHaze, and Starcrossed. Expect a mix of alternative sounds, fresh local talent, and an electric atmosphere in one of Ipswich’s most loved intimate venues.

✅ Three great acts, one unforgettable night
✅ Ideal for indie and alternative music fans

🎟️ Tickets available now – secure yours early!

📅 Sunday 3 August

🎶 Live Soul, Motown & RnB at The Waterfront Bistro

📅 When: Sunday, 3rd August 2025 – From 3:30 PM
📍 Where: The Waterfront Bistro, 15 Regatta Quay, Key Street, Ipswich, IP4 1FH

Join us for a relaxing Sunday afternoon of Soul, Motown & RnB classics in the stylish Waterfront Bistro bar. Soak up the great atmosphere, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and let the music set the tone for the perfect end to your weekend.

✅ Free entry
✅ Unbeatable waterfront views and live entertainment

📅 Sunday 3 August

🎬 Film & TV Music Quiz at Three Wise Monkeys

📅 When: Sunday, 3rd August 2025 – 7:00 PM start
📍 Where: Three Wise Monkeys, 22 Lloyds Avenue, Ipswich, IP1 3HD

Think you know your movie scores and TV theme tunes? Put your knowledge to the test at the Film & TV Music Quiz! Gather your friends for an evening of brain-teasing fun, great drinks, and friendly competition.

✅ Entry fee applies – book your table in advance
✅ Perfect for film buffs and music lovers alike

🎟️ Spaces fill up fast – don’t miss out!

📅 Sunday 3 August

🎵 Coast Live at Isaacs on the Quay

📅 When: Sunday, 3rd August 2025 – From 3:00 PM

📍 Where: Isaacs on the Quay, 15 Regatta Quay, Key Street, Ipswich, IP4 1FH

Spend your Sunday afternoon by the waterfront enjoying live music from Coast, a fantastic band playing hits from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. The perfect setting for a relaxed summer day with friends and family, great food, and drinks in one of Ipswich’s most iconic venues.

✅ Free entry – everyone welcome

✅ Classic tunes in a stunning riverside location