Al Fresco Dining in Ipswich

POSTED ON: 15/04/2021

From cosy pub gardens and waterfront verandas to restaurant courtyards and coffee shop hideaways; we’ve gathered some of the best places in Ipswich for al fresco dining; so you can enjoy food and drink with family and friends in the open-air.

Isaacs on the Quay

@meganxpotter

One of Ipswich’s most popular bars, Isaacs on the Quay is a favourite along the waterfront with its courtyards, verandas and outdoor spaces for enjoying drinks with views over the marinas.

The Greyhound

@greyhoundips

The Greyhound is an award‑winning Adnams pub serving Suffolk‑made beers, ales and spirits along with delicious homemade meals of modern twists on classic pub grub. Their new courtyard and pods are perfect for outdoor pub trips.

The Woolpack

@ipswichwoolpack

A cosy English pub on there east side of Christchurch Park, The Woolpack is everything you want from a pub: great food, great drinks and a friendly atmosphere.

Applaud Coffee

@applaud_coffee

Charming coffee shop in The Saints area of Ipswich, with a secluded kitchen garden at the back filled with flowers, herbs and little hideaways to enjoy breakfast, lunch or a slice of cake. Applaud Coffee is a firm favourite in Ipswich.

Cult Cafe Bar

@cultcafebar

Ipswich’s student bar and cafe. Cult Cafe Bar has delicious street food, amazing views over the waterfront and plenty of laidback vibes plus loads of outdoor space for casual catch‑ups with family and friends.

The Grazing Sheep

@elliebatley_14

One of the waterfront’s top cafes for foodies, The Grazing Sheep has a vibrant, ever‑changing menu of lush salads, open sandwiches and Spanish‑inspired dishes. All available to enjoy outside along the marina’s edge

The Forge Kitchen

@theforgekitchen

Regularly voted one of Ipswich’s favourite restaurants, The Forge Kitchen is a smokehouse and bar by the University with an open rooftop terrace and a creative menu of BBQ‑style food and fusion cocktails.

The Waterfront Bistro

@wanderlustruby

Another favourite along the waterfront, The Waterfront Bistro is a stylish yet relaxed place for excellent British food and fine drinks; all with outdoors seating along Neptune Marina.

The Spread Eagle

@spreadeagle_ip

Another of Ipswich’s great pubs with regular quiz nights, live music and their amazing courtyard pub garden! The Spread Eagle is a proper cosy pub with craft beers, unique spirits, vintage cocktails and homemade bar snacks.

Aurora Bar & Restaurant

@whatsherdream

Aurora is one of Ipswich’s most glamorous bars and fine‑dining restaurants; with its impressive “tent” building overlooking the Port of Ipswich and famous cocktail menu.

Ambition House Cafe

@ambition_house_cafe

Ambition House Cafe is Paddy & Scott’s coffee shop at the University; serving Paddy & Scott’s famous coffee and a selection of classic sandwiches, pastries and treats. Enjoy outside with amazing views over the waterfront.

The Station Hotel

@_elena_photographer_7

Opposite the train station and with a sun‑trap garden backing into the River Gipping, The Station Hotel is a relaxed pub with homemade food and all your favourite drinks.

Pizza Express

@hannahrayelle

Enjoy Pizza Express’ famous Italian food and drinks with the extra glamour of harbour‑side views; best enjoyed outside in their veranda.

Halberd Inn

@halberdinn

A traditional sports pub with a converted stable-building creating a brilliant sheltered space for meeting friends and family; whatever the weather. Halberd Inn is one of Ipswich's oldest pubs and has all the charm and character of a classic British inn.

Pickwicks

@pickwicksipswich

Nestled in the heart of the town centre next to St Lawrence Church, Pickwicks is Ipswich’s oldest tea house serving classic English tea, cakes and coffees; all available to enjoy al fresco in their church courtyard.

Coffee Cat, Waterfront

@sarahwatfordbennett

A hidden gem along the waterfront, Coffee Cat is a great choice vegan and veggie visitors with their flexible menu and friendly team.