Ipswich for City of Culture 2029? Absolutely, we’re 100% behind it!. And our parks, we think should be part of our story.

Alderman Park Recreation Ground sits just off Sir Alf Ramsey Way, right under the gaze of @ipswichtown on Portman Road.

Ipswich has 28 parks and open green spaces, but how many have you explored? 

This winter, we’re challenging you to visit as many as you can.

There’s something special about celebrating in our parks. And we do it so well! Last weekend, we watched Christchurch Park light up with fireworks, a tradition that’s been going since 1972!

Bourne Park, Ipswich is one of Ipswich’s wilder green spaces. It’s full of big trees, open grass and winding paths along the Bourne Stream.

Apple Day at Holywells Park Orchard on Saturday 18th October 2025, crunchy apples, fresh juice, toffee apples and wildlife boxes!

A Parklife Ipswich x Thisis.Ipswich project

We are collaborating to create a new project and film series that celebrates the memories and stories behind the memorial benches in Ipswich parks. 

“Our parks are welcoming to everyone. Generations of Ipswich families, mine included, have grown up with these spaces at the heart of their lives. Ipswich wouldn’t be Ipswich without them.” Lynne Mortimer

Christchurch Park is right in the centre of Ipswich. Families love the play areas and there are plenty of open space to relax or run around.

Holywells has something for everyone: woodlands, ponds where you might spot a kingfisher (or otter) and a great play area with water features, accessible swings and a historic twist. There’s even a “toad tunnel” under the road to help wildlife cross safely.

If you’ve ever driven over the Orwell Bridge and wondered what’s down there beneath it all, it’s Orwell Country Park.

Autumn feels like the right time to begin a project about our parks. Rich colours, shifting light and leaves falling.