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Welcome to Ipswich Local
Your Weekly Guide to What’s Happening in Town!Hello {{contact.first_name}} Welcome to Issue #38 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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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…👇 |
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🔥 Win a £50 Voucher for Ocean Fish Platter – Ipswich’s Premium Seafood SpotREPLY “Ocean” TO EVERY NEWSLETTER FOR EXTRA ENTRIES. This month, we’re giving one lucky winner the chance to enjoy an exceptional seafood dining experience at Ocean Fish Platter on Upper Brook Street, Ipswich. Established in 2005, the restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, generous portions and stylish setting. 🌟 Menu highlights include: Sharing platters overflowing with whole king prawns, scallops, mussels and grilled fish. Freshly grilled seabass or halibut with garlic-butter, olive oil and fresh herbs. Their signature Fish & Chips in gluten-free batter (on request) and other inclusive options.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, heading out with family or simply treating yourself to quality seafood, Ocean Fish Platter delivers flavour, freshness and atmosphere. 🎁 One lucky winner will receive a £50 voucher to spend at Ocean Fish Platter. Drinks not included. 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, 30 November 2025
📢 Winner announced: Monday, 1 December 2025 Good luck! 🐟 👉 View Restaurant Here |
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🌟 This Week’s Local Hero: Little Acorns FosteringEvery 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. |
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Local News Highlights 📰Stay informed with the latest updates from Ipswich. Here are this week’s top local stories: |
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🚛 Huge 79.9-Tonne Load to Crawl Through Suffolk Roads
Motorists are being warned to expect delays as several massive abnormal loads make their way through the county this week. The heaviest — nearly 80 tonnes — will travel from Kesgrave to Sizewell B on Tuesday, with police escorts managing traffic along key routes including the A12 and B1122. Two other hefty convoys are also planned on Monday and Thursday, affecting routes between Leiston, Wickham Market, and the Cambridgeshire border. Source: East Anglian Daily Times
👉 Read the full story here. |
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🛍️ Two Charged After Ipswich Store Thefts
Police have charged two men following a string of suspected thefts from shops across Ipswich and Norwich. The pair were stopped near Mildenhall, where officers discovered electrical goods hidden in foil-lined bags. One man has already been jailed, while the other remains in custody awaiting his next court appearance. Source: Ipswich Star
👉 Read the full story here. |
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😔 Tragic Discovery in Search for Missing Bury St Edmunds Man
Police have confirmed that a body, believed to be that of 59-year-old Andrew Harrington, has been found in woodland near West Stow. Mr Harrington had been missing since Thursday, prompting an extensive search by Suffolk Lowland Search and Rescue. Officers say the death is not being treated as suspicious, and a report will be prepared for the coroner. Source: East Anglian Daily Times
👉 Read the full story here. |
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🎥 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. |
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📺TV Show Review: Pluribus (Season 1)🔎 What’s the Story?
Pluribus takes place in a chillingly plausible near-future where a lab accident releases a virus known as “The Joining.” Instead of killing its victims, the virus unites nearly all of humanity into a single, ever-smiling hive mind. Only a handful of people remain immune.
Among them Carol Sturka, a sardonic romance novelist whose bitterness becomes her greatest defence against assimilation. As the last fragments of individual thought flicker in a world of enforced bliss, Carol embarks on a dangerous mission to reclaim what it truly means to be human. ✨ The Setup
This cerebral sci-fi thriller, starring Rhea Seehorn as Carol, balances high-concept science fiction with biting social satire. Created by visionary writer–director Mara Levington, the show’s title nods to E pluribus unum — “Out of many, one” — a phrase now turned inside out. Its eight-episode first season delves into themes of identity, conformity, and the peril of happiness without choice 🎭 The Vibe
Atmospheric, darkly funny, and quietly tragic, Pluribus channels the existential dread of Black Mirror with the emotional sharpness of The Leftovers. Its sterile visuals and eerie calmness make every smile onscreen feel like a threat. Beneath the sleek sci-fi veneer, the show hums with questions about what we lose when we stop feeling pain — and whether peace without struggle is worth the price of our souls. 🌟 Standout Performances Rhea Seehorn as Carol Sturka — delivers a masterclass in deadpan defiance, embodying cynicism as both armour and moral clarity. Chiwetel Ejiofor as Dr. Emory Bale — the scientist haunted by guilt and faith in human progress. Noémie Merlant as Lila, a Joined emissary — her serene menace captures the allure of collective joy.
📋 Final Verdict
Pluribus is a rare blend of intellect and emotion — a dystopian parable that feels disturbingly current. It’s not just science fiction; it’s social reflection, asking whether humanity’s messiness might be its greatest strength. A haunting, must-watch series for anyone unafraid to question happiness itself. 📸 Image: Courtesy of Apple TV+ |
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📺 TV Show Review: The Chair Company (Season 1)🔎 What’s the Story?
In The Chair Company, Tim Robinson stars as William Ronald Trosper — or “Ron” — a well-meaning but socially anxious project manager whose life unravels after his office chair collapses mid-presentation. What begins as a mortifying workplace mishap turns into a relentless quest for justice when Ron demands an apology from the chair’s manufacturer — only to uncover a maze of shell corporations, fake websites, and unsettling coincidences that hint at something far bigger (and stranger) than a defective product. ✨ The Setup
An HBO original comedy from Tim Robinson and Zach Kanin (I Think You Should Leave), The Chair Company transforms an absurdly mundane grievance into a paranoid, laugh-out-loud thriller. Across eight episodes, the series walks a brilliant tonal tightrope, fusing corporate satire, psychological drama, and cringe-fuelled humour into one escalating spiral of chaos. 🎭 The Vibe
Imagine The Office reimagined by David Lynch — mundane yet menacing, awkward yet gripping. The show captures the essence of modern paranoia: how customer service dead-ends, online bureaucracy, and self-inflicted humiliation can feel like an existential conspiracy. The tone oscillates between hilarious and harrowing, with every phone call and email turning into a descent into absurdism. 🌟 Standout Performances Tim Robinson as Ron Trosper — perfectly channels manic frustration, teetering between tragic and ridiculous. Kate Berlant as Ron’s exhausted wife, Janet — grounding the chaos with exasperated warmth and wit. John Early as the eerily polite “Chair Company” representative — equal parts charming and chilling.
📋 Final Verdict
The Chair Company is one of HBO’s most original comedies in years — a masterclass in blending cringe humour with psychological tension. It’s a cautionary tale for the digital age, reminding us that sometimes the greatest conspiracies are born from embarrassment and loneliness. Watch it if you love your comedy smart, surreal, and just a little bit terrifying. 📸 Image: Courtesy of HBO |
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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 |
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🎄 Ipswich Christmas Lights Switch-On – Cornhill The countdown to Christmas begins with Ipswich’s biggest festive celebration yet! Enjoy live entertainment, magical performances, and the grand moment the town lights up for the season. 🗓️ When: Sunday 16th November
⏰ Time: 4pm – 7.30pm (Lights switched on at 6.45pm)
📍 Where: Cornhill, Ipswich
💷 Cost: Free 🤝 Perfect for families, friends, and festive spirits ready to kick off Christmas in style!
👉 Don’t miss the magic — arrive early to enjoy the entertainment and make the most of free Sunday parking at Crown car park. |
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🗓️Tuesday 11 November 2025
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☕ Tea & Talk – The Hidden Garden Café, Ipswich Take a mid-morning break for good conversation and great company at Tea & Talk — a relaxed, friendly gathering where you can connect, share ideas, and unwind over a warm cuppa. 🗓️ When: Tuesday 11th November 2025
⏰ Time: 10:00am – 11:30am
📍 Where: The Hidden Garden Café, 15 St Peter’s Street, Ipswich, IP1 1XF
💷 Cost: Free 🤝 Perfect for anyone looking to meet new people, exchange thoughts, and take a mindful pause in a cosy café setting.
👉 Come along, bring a friend, and enjoy a morning of tea, talk, and togetherness. |
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🗓️ Tuesday 11 November 2025
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🎤 Urzila Carlson: You Don’t Say? – Ipswich Regent Theatre Get ready for a night of laughter with award-winning comedian Urzila Carlson as she brings her sharp wit and hilarious insights to Ipswich with her brand-new show You Don’t Say? 🗓️ When: [Please confirm the date of the performance]
⏰ Time: [Please confirm the start time]
📍 Where: Ipswich Regent Theatre, Ipswich
💷 Cost: [Please confirm ticket price or price range] 🤝 A must-see for comedy fans who love clever humour and a good dose of laughter!
👉 Book your seats early — Urzila’s shows are known to sell out fast! Could you share the date, time, and ticket prices so I can complete the listing? |
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🗓️ Tuesday 11 November 2025
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🎖️ Festival of Remembrance – St Peter’s by the Waterfront
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The Ipswich Hospital Band presents the annual Festival of Remembrance — an evening of stirring music, reflection, and community spirit. Enjoy a varied musical programme in the first half, followed by a moving Service of Remembrance in honour of those who served. Profits from the concert will support Combat2Coffee, a local social enterprise helping veterans and their families. 🗓️ When: Tuesday 11th November 2025
⏰ Time: 7:30pm (doors open 7:00pm)
📍 Where: St Peter’s by the Waterfront, College Street, Ipswich, IP4 1BF
💷 Cost: £0 – £12 (Advance Tickets £10, Under 16s Free) 🤝 A heartfelt evening for all who wish to remember, reflect, and support a great local cause.
👉 Book your tickets early and be part of this special annual tribute. |
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🗓️ Thursday 13 November 2025
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🎄 Festive Evening – Suffolk Food Hall
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Kick off the Christmas season in style at Suffolk Food Hall’s Festive Evening! Enjoy complimentary tastings, festive treats, and exclusive seasonal offers as the hall transforms into a winter wonderland. 🗓️ When: Thursday 13th November 2025
⏰ Time: 5:30pm – 8:00pm
📍 Where: Suffolk Food Hall, Wherstead, Ipswich
💷 Cost: Free 🤝 Perfect for families, food lovers, and anyone eager to soak up some early festive cheer.
👉 Pop along for a magical evening of food, fun, and community spirit! |
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🗓️Thursday 13 November 2025
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🎤 Garth Marenghi – This Bursted Earth Book Tour – Ipswich Corn ExchangeA brilliantly twisted evening with horror-author extraordinaire Garth Marenghi, as he unveils his latest nightmarish tales in his signature show-style.
🗓️ When: Thursday 13th November 2025
⏰ Time: Doors at 6:30pm, show starts at 7:30pm
📍 Where: Ipswich Corn Exchange, King St, Ipswich IP1 1DH
💷 Cost: £23
🤝 Perfect for fans of comedy-horror, sharp satire and a one-of-a-kind literary live experience.
👉 Grab your ticket and don’t miss this ghoulishly entertaining night! |
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🗓️Thursday 13 November 2025
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🎤 Jim Ghedi – The SmokehouseAn unforgettable night of bold, brooding folk with the acclaimed singer-songwriter Jim Ghedi, joined by support acts The Feathered Thorns and Ewan D Rodgers. 🗓️ When: Thursday 13 November 2025
⏰ Time: 7:30pm – 11:00pm (doors open 7:30pm)
📍 Where: The Smokehouse, 6 South Street, Ipswich IP1 3NU
💷 Cost: From approx. £12 (plus booking fee) 🤝 Ideal for music lovers drawn to rich storytelling, dark atmospheres and authentic live performance in an intimate venue.
👉 Grab your ticket early—this one’s not to be missed! |
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🗓️Friday 14 November 2025
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🏇 Charity Race Night 2025 – 🎯 Venue16Get set for a lively night of fun, family-style entertainment and good-hearted competition — all while supporting two fantastic local causes. 🗓️ When: Friday 14th November 2025
⏰ Time: 7:30pm – 11:30pm
📍 Where: Venue16, 312 Tuddenham Rd, Ipswich IP4 3QJ
💷 Cost: £10 per ticket (includes one food voucher) 🤝 Ideal for families, friends and community supporters keen to enjoy live-totes, cash prizes, an interactive host and a great atmosphere — with all proceeds benefiting Brave Futures Children's Charity and Cancer Support Suffolk.
👉 Book your tickets now and cheer on your favourite “horse” for a night of fun and fundraising! |
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🗓️Friday 14 November 2025
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🎉 Remix: Ipswich Legends Live – Miami BarTwo icons of the Ipswich underground scene take over Miami Bar for one epic night of old-school energy and dance-floor anthems! Expect a powerful mix of rave breaks, jungle, DnB, garage, mashups, bootlegs and club classics — all blended live by Remix. 🗓️ When: Friday 14th November 2025 ⏰ Time: From 8:00pm (until late) 📍 Where: Miami Bar, 24–26 Falcon Street, Ipswich, IP1 1SL 💷 Cost: Free entry 🤝 Perfect for ravers, clubbers and anyone who loves to dance to the sounds of Ipswich’s underground heritage. 👉 Arrive early — it’s free, and it’s going to be buzzing! |
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🗓️Friday 14 November 2025
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🎻 Candlelight Double Bill: Hans Zimmer & Ed Sheeran Meets Coldplay – St Peter’s by the WaterfrontExperience a stunning double bill of live music by candlelight at one of Ipswich’s most atmospheric venues. First, immerse yourself in The Best of Hans Zimmer, a breathtaking performance of iconic film scores from Inception, Gladiator, The Dark Knight and more. Performed by a live string quartet, this magical concert captures the epic emotion of cinema’s most powerful soundtracks. 🗓️ When: Friday 14th November 2025
⏰ Time: 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm (doors open 6:15 pm) Then, stay for Candlelight: Ed Sheeran Meets Coldplay, where the glow continues with acoustic re-imaginings of beloved hits like Shape of You, Fix You and A Sky Full of Stars. A warm, uplifting close to a beautifully musical evening. ⏰ Time: Follows shortly after the Hans Zimmer concert
📍 Where: St Peter’s by the Waterfront, College Street, Ipswich IP4 1BF
💷 Cost: Tickets from £18 – £46 (per concert) 🤝 Ideal for music lovers, film fans, and anyone seeking a night of candlelit ambience and timeless melodies.
👉 Arrive early to enjoy both performances and make an evening of it in the heart of Ipswich. |
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🗓️ Friday 14 November 2025
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🎶 Live Music Duo – The Botanist, IpswichEnjoy an evening of incredible live tunes from a talented duo performing crowd favourites across all genres — the perfect soundtrack to your Friday night! 🗓️ When: Friday 14th November
⏰ Time: From 7pm
📍 Where: The Botanist, Ipswich
💷 Cost: Free 🤝 Ideal for music lovers and anyone looking to unwind with great vibes and good company.
👉 Gather your friends and make it a night to remember! |
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🗓️ Friday 14 November 2025
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🎸 Benefits – Live @ The SmokehouseGet ready for a high-energy night as electronic-rock pioneers Benefits bring their thunderous sound to Ipswich! Expect immersive beats, spoken-word punch, and an electrifying live performance. 🗓️ When: Friday 14th November 2025 ⏰ Time: 7:30pm – 11:00pm (doors open at 7:30pm) 📍 Where: The Smokehouse, 6 South Street, Ipswich IP1 3NU 💷 Cost: From approximately £18.50 (plus booking fee) 🤝 Ideal for fans of bold live music, cutting-edge electronic rock or anyone looking to experience something vibrant and intense. 👉 Tickets are expected to sell quickly — get yours early to secure your place! |
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🗓️ Saturday 15 November 2025
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🎵 A Night of Shantys & Sea Songs – St Peter’s by the Waterfront
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Set sail into an evening of vibrant maritime music and hearty voices as three acclaimed folk-groups take to the stage: The Lowestoft Longshoremen, Hoy Boy and The Orwellermen perform a rich programme of sea shanties and coastal songs—raising funds for a worthy cause. 🗓️ When: Saturday 15th November 2025
⏰ Time: 7:30 pm (doors open at 7:00 pm)
📍 Where: St Peter’s by the Waterfront, College Street, Ipswich IP4 1BF
💷 Cost: £18.00 🤝 Ideal for folk-music lovers, community supporters and anyone who enjoys an authentic and spirited evening of song and sea-air atmosphere.
👉 Grab your ticket and prepare for an uplifting night of voices, tradition and seaside heritage. |
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🗓️Saturday 15 November 2025
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🎶 WyldFolk Live – The Botanist, Ipswich 🎶 WyldFolk Live – The Botanist Get ready for an evening of toe-tapping tunes as WyldFolk bring their unique blend of folk, pop, and rock to Ipswich! This talented four-piece acoustic band from Suffolk perform timeless covers with their own original twist. 🗓️ When: Saturday 15th November
⏰ Time: From 8pm
📍 Where: The Botanist, Ipswich
💷 Cost: Free 🤝 A perfect night out for live music lovers who enjoy great vibes, good company, and fantastic local talent.
👉 Gather your friends and soak up the sounds at The Botanist! |
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🗓️Saturday 15 November 2025
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🎸 Game On: 90s Indie Tribute Band – Duke of Marlborough Get ready to relive the golden age of Britpop with Game On, the ultimate 90s indie tribute band! Expect a night packed with anthems from Oasis, Blur, Pulp, and more — pure nostalgia and high-energy vibes all evening long. 🗓️ When: Saturday 15th November 2025
⏰ Time: From 8:30pm
📍 Where: Duke of Marlborough, Ipswich
💷 Cost: Free 🤝 Perfect for fans of 90s indie music and anyone who loves a lively night out with great tunes and good company.
👉 Bring your mates and get ready to sing your heart out! |
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🗓️ Saturday 15 November - Sunday 4 January 2026
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🎆 Illuminate Ipswich – Winter Light Trail at Christchurch Park Step into an enchanting after-dark journey through Ipswich as Christchurch Park is transformed into a magical light trail for the season. This winter spectacle features dazzling installations, glowing pathways, marshmallow toasting stations by crackling fires, and a cosy food & drink court offering mulled wine, hot chocolate and more. 🗓️ When: Saturday 15 November 2025 – Sunday 4 January 2026
⏰ Time: Evening slots (trail lasts approx. 30–45 minutes)
📍 Where: Christchurch Park, Ipswich, IP? (near town-centre entrance)
💷 Cost: From approx. £7.95 for children to £11.95 for adults 🤝 Perfect for families, friends or couples looking to enjoy a warm and festive outing in a beautiful setting.
👉 Book your tickets early and arrive a little before your slot to soak in the atmosphere and grab a hot treat before starting the trail. |
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🗓️ Sunday 16 November 2025
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🎤 Brooklyn Nine-Nine Quiz – Three Wise Monkeys ExPut your detective hats on and dive into a night of trivia inspired by the iconic series — all for a good cause! 🗓️ When: Sunday 16 November ⏰ Time: 6:15pm – 8:15pm 📍 Where: Three Wise Monkeys, 22 Lloyds Avenue, Ipswich IP1 3HD 💷 Cost: £3 per person (cash only) 🤝 Ideal for fans of the show, quiz lovers and friends looking for a fun evening out in support of a great cause. 👉 Teams of up to six — arrive 20 minutes early to place food and drink orders. |
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