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Easter egg trails and Anglo Saxon activities planned at Christchurch Mansion this half term

NewsLast updated 31 March, 2025

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Oliver Rouane-Williams

31 March, 2025

Families can enjoy a range of activities at the historic Ipswich venue during the Easter holidays alongside new art exhibitions.

Why it matters: Christchurch Mansion is opening its doors with a packed spring programme, combining cultural exhibits with family-friendly activities while introducing new seasonal opening hours.

Christchurch Mansion in IpswichOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

The details: The historic venue will be available for private functions every day from 21 April, alongside its regular public opening hours which vary seasonally.

Free entry to the mansion (except during special events)
Spring/summer hours (March-October): Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays 10am-5pm; Sundays 11am-5pm
Autumn/winter hours (November-February): Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays 10am-4pm; Sundays 11am-4pm

What's happening: The Easter holiday programme includes:

Woolly's Egg Trail running 5-20 April
Artistic Egg Decorating on 8 April
Anglo Saxon Clay Pot Making on 9 April
Anglo Saxon Discovery Day also on 9 April

What's next: After the current "An Eye For Life: Photography by John Ferguson" exhibition ends on 27 April, a new family-focused exhibition called "Colour Shape and Pattern" will run from 24 May 2025 until 22 February 2026 in the Wolsey Art Gallery.

Beyond art: A Wedding Fayre on 4 May will showcase the mansion as a venue for special occasions, with couples able to explore the Lower Tudor Room ceremony space and The Great Hall reception area.

What they're saying: Councillor Carole Jones, Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Planning and Museums, said: "Christchurch Mansion is a vital asset to Ipswich, rich in history and a cherished part of our cultural heritage. With so much planned over the coming months, I would encourage everyone to visit and enjoy this beautiful building and appreciate its significance."

The bottom line: Christchurch Mansion offers both cultural enrichment through its exhibitions and practical entertainment for families during school holidays, all housed within one of Ipswich's most historically significant buildings.

You can find out more here.

Oliver Rouane-Williams

Mentioned in this article:

Ipswich Borough Council

Posted in:

Events & Things To Do

Museums & Heritage

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Ellisons announces sponsorship of Ipswich Sports Club

NewsLast updated 14 April, 2025

Ipswich's only independent news website

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Oliver Rouane-Williams

14 April, 2025

Local law firm Ellisons is backing Ipswich Sports Club to help make sport accessible to all, including schools, disabled individuals and disadvantaged community members.

Why it matters: Without sponsorship support, the Community Amateur Sports Club (CASC) would struggle to maintain its current level of access, facilities and programmes for the local community.

In their words: "The support from Ellisons, alongside our other sponsors, is absolutely invaluable. Without their generosity, we simply wouldn't be able to offer the same level of access, facilities and programmes," said Andy Isles, Chairman of Ipswich Sports Club .

Guy Longhurst, Lorna Denton-Cardew, George Burley, Andy Isles and Simone DowsingEllisons

The bigger picture: Ipswich Sports Club has established itself as a cornerstone of local sport, offering various activities and developing talent from grassroots to professional levels.

The club has produced elite athletes and regularly hosts prestigious international tournaments.

What they're saying: "We're incredibly proud to sponsor a club with such a strong reputation for developing talent and attracting international tournaments," said Guy Longhurst , Managing Partner at Ellisons .

"Sport has a unique ability to unite communities, you only have to look at ITFC at the moment for proof of that, so it's crucial that organisations like Ipswich Sports Club continue to thrive," he added.

Longhurst also noted a personal benefit to the partnership: "I also love a game of Padel and see this as a great excuse to make use of the facilities myself!"

The bottom line: This partnership reflects the latest commitment from Ellisons to support community initiatives with lasting impact, after just last week announcing their partnership with Brighten the Corners, whilst ensuring the sports club can provide an inclusive environment for enthusiasts of all abilities.