HOLYWELLS PARK
Holywells Park is a great park, 67 acres of green space with a story that goes back centuries. From Stone Age tools and Roman coins to the Cobbold brewing family, which once utilised its natural springs for their beer, the park is rich in both history and beauty.
Holywells has something for everyone: woodlands full of bluebells in spring, ponds where you might spot a kingfisher (or otter) and a great play area with water features, accessible swings and a historic twist (they’re built on the site of a medieval bishop’s lodge!). There’s even a “toad tunnel” under the road to help wildlife cross safely.
They have a lovely dog-friendly café (bishopstea.co.uk), plus accessible toilets with baby changing and disabled access. There’s also a grass maze, informal gardens, wooden play areas, streams, lakes, football goals, and plenty of ducks to watch.
The Orangery (The Conservatory) sits within the walled garden and is available to hire for weddings and events, adding a touch of elegance to your visit.
Holywells Park is really easy to get to. It’s just a short walk from Ipswich town centre and the Waterfront or there’s plenty of parking if you’re driving. Note that the car park at the Cliff Lane entrance is reserved for blue badge holders.
Sarah was one of the very first to reach out when we launched this project and today we caught up with her at her lovely café @bishopscafe_tearooms in Holywells Park. bishopstea.co.uk
She had so many great stories to tell. One of which was about the unusual curvy shaped benches. Crafted locally by Richard & Tim Germain @benchprojectuk from fallen oak, the benches are designed to spark conversation and encourage people to sit and linger. Loneliness is a real problem,
a chance encounter on these benches might just make someone’s day. benchproject.co.uk
How are you enjoying Holywells Park? Share your moments with us @ParkLifeIpswich or email us.
Brewing History
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Cobbold brewing family made the park their own. They used the pure spring water to brew beer, first sending it to their Harwich brewery and later opening a brewery at nearby Cliff Quay. They built the grand Holywells House and stables, which is now home to @bishopscafe_tearooms . The cascading ponds and woodlands, once painted by the artist Thomas Gainsborough, are visible today.
In 1935, the park was gifted to the people of Ipswich by Lord Woodbridge, ensuring that Holywells would remain a public space for everyone to enjoy.
