Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chester, England to Ipswich, England
If you’re looking for an adventure, why not take a road trip from Chester to Ipswich in England? This drive is a beautiful way to explore the country and see parts of it that you may not have seen before. The total distance of this route is approximately 200 miles and it takes around 4 hours to complete, but we suggest you take your time and make stops along the way. Here are some unexpected places to stop and things to do on your drive.
Halfway Point: Rugby, WAR
If you’re looking for a halfway point to break up the journey, Rugby is the perfect spot. Renowned for being the birthplace of rugby football, this historic market town has plenty to offer. For sports enthusiasts, the Rugby Football Museum is a must-see attraction, filled with over 25,000 objects including rare photographs, caps and jerseys, and even a 3D cinema. You can also take a stroll around Rugby Central Shopping Centre, with its unique blend of high street and independent retailers. Rugby is also home to some fantastic restaurants serving up local produce, including The Seven Stars gastro pub, which offers great food and a wide selection of real ales.
1. Cotswolds Farm Park, Glos
Cotswolds Farm Park is located just off the A44 in Glos and provides a perfect stop for families and animal lovers. The park is home to a rare breed conservation project, where visitors can interact with some of the country’s most beautiful and endangered farm animals. Watch sheep shearing demos, take a walk with Alpacas or even join a half-day lambing experience – there’s plenty of activities available to keep you entertained. The farm also offers a brilliant restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious afternoon tea or home cooked lunch. Don’t forget to visit their farm shop to take home some locally sourced meat and cheeses.
2. Canons Ashby, Northamptonshire
Canons Ashby, located in the heart of Northamptonshire, offers a unique glimpse into English history. This stunning Elizabethan country manor is set against the backdrop of beautiful gardens and parkland, presenting a great opportunity to explore the outdoors. The site offers guided tours, an interactive exhibition, and even an audio trail through the gardens. Stop by the tea room for some locally sourced treats and homemade cakes.
3. Cambridge, Cambs
Cambridge is a beautiful and historic university city located just off the A14, which offers a perfect stop for history lovers. Here, you can explore the famous colleges of Cambridge University, St John’s and King’s College, with their stunning architecture and extensive galleries. The city is also home to many bookshops and antique stores, ideal for those looking for unique souvenirs or gifts. You won’t be short of great places to eat either; try The Eagle gastro pub, famous for being the place where Watson and Crick announced their discovery of DNA.
4. Glemham Hall, Suffolk
Glemham Hall is a magnificent Tudor mansion located in the heart of rural Suffolk, with a fascinating history and beautiful gardens. The gardens, originally planted in 1740, offer visitors a tranquil place to relax and unwind; take the circular walk around the parkland and stop by the lake to watch the wildlife. Inside the hall, five rooms are open to the public, each with its own unique story and artefacts. Make sure to visit the tearoom, offering a range of hot and cold refreshments including homemade cakes, sandwiches, and afternoon tea.
5. Felixstowe Ferry, Suffolk
Located at the mouth of the River Deben, Felixstowe Ferry offers a great spot to enjoy seaside scenery and an abundance of leisurely activities. This traditional fishing village with its historic houses and crabbing huts, is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the fresh sea air. Take a stroll along the beach, try your hand at crabbing, or visit one of the many restaurants. The Ferry Boat Inn serves up excellent locally sourced seafood and real ale.
In conclusion, this route has a lot to offer, from picturesque countryside to historic buildings, and great food. There are plenty of unexpected places to stop and explore, even for those who have lived in England for years. So, pack a picnic, buckle up and hit the road - you won’t be disappointed.