Student City Life in Ipswich: Explore Your New City 2024

Ipswich, a historic town in Suffolk, UK, is known for its rich heritage, medieval architecture, and picturesque waterfront along the River Orwell. This is one of the towns in the United Kingdom, which hosts many international students. Student life is amazing in Ipswich. Besides, the town offers quality education to domestic and international students. 

Here, you will read some significant things about Ipswich, which will help you in exploring your new town. 

About Ipswich 

a. Ipswich Geography 

Ipswich lies at approximately 52.06° N latitude and 1.15° E longitude. The town is situated on the estuary of the River Orwell. The River Orwell flows into the North Sea at Felixstowe. The river is a central part of Ipswich’s geography. It has shaped its history as a port town.  

The terrain around Ipswich is relatively flat, typical of the East Anglian region. The area is primarily low-lying with some gently rolling hills in the surrounding countryside. 

b. Population of Ipswich 

As of the 2021 census, the population of Ipswich was approximately 139,600. 

c. Weather in Ipswich 

In the Spring season, temperatures gradually rise from around 8-12°C (46-54°F) in March to 14-18°C (57-64°F) by May. It is the time of sunshine but there may be occasional rain. In summer (June to August), temperatures may average between 18-24°C (64-75°F). Temperatures cool down from around 17-20°C (63-68°F) in September to 7-10°C (45-50°F) in November. September to November is the time of the autumn season. The winter season, which comes from December to February, temperatures range from 1-8°C (34-46°F). 

Study in Ipswich 

a. Why Study in Ipswich? 

Ipswich boasts a vibrant student life and provides world-class education. Here, students can find many student clubs and organizations. Studying in Ipswich provides amazing international exposure to students.  

b. Top Universities in Ipswich 

In Ipswich, you find the University of Suffolk, which hosts both domestic and international students. Apart from this university, there are some other higher-educational institutes in Ipswich. The major one among them is Suffolk New College. 

Best Ipswich Student Accommodation 

Accommodation is a major requirement of students after enrolling in Ipswich. But, before looking for accommodations, you need to know about some good localities and accommodations.  

a. Top Localities in Ipswich 

Here are some of the top localities for international students in Ipswich. You can rent Student Housing Ipswich in any of these localities. 

• St. Mary-le-Tower 

• Rushmere St. Andrew 

• Kesgrave 

• Chantry 

• Bixley Farm 

• East Ipswich 

• The Waterfront 

• Stoke Park 

• Whitton 

• Westerfield 

There are more good localities in or near Ipswich. 

b. Top 10 Accommodations in Ipswich 

You can rent accommodation in Ipswich or its nearby city Colchester. Here are the top 10 accommodations in Ipswich and nearby. 

1. Athena Hall 

2. The Maltings 

3. Avon Way House 

4. Enso 

5. Elmstead Place 

6. 27 Magdalen Street 

7. Hythe Mills 

8. Toothbrush Apartments 

9. Ipswich Quayside 

10. Nine Charlotte House 

Jobs in Ipswich 

Students can find jobs in different sectors in Ipswich. Some popular types of jobs include retail, hospitality and food service, administrative roles, tutoring and teaching, customer service, healthcare assistant, warehouse and logistics, and events and promotion staff. Freelancing and gig work are also available for students in Ipswich. Students can also do internships. 

Part-time jobs can help students in Ipswich in managing their expenses. They also provide some excellent experience that paves the way for your future. 

Living in Ipswich 

1. Cost of Living in Ipswich 

Here are some significant costs in Ipswich along with the total estimated monthly cost. 

1. Accommodation: 

• Private rental (1-bedroom apartment): £600 – £900 per month. 

• Shared accommodation: £300 – £600 per month. 

• University or student accommodation: £400 – £700 per month. 

2. Utilities (electricity, heating, water, internet): 

• Basic utilities: £100 – £150 per month for electricity, heating, water. 

• Internet: £20 – £40 per month. 

3. Food: 

• Groceries: £150 – £250 per month. 

• Eating out: £10 – £15 per meal at inexpensive restaurants. 

4. Transport: 

• Bus fare (monthly pass): £50 – £60 per month. 

• Taxi/ride-sharing: Short trips within the town are generally around £6 – £12. 

5. Leisure and Entertainment: 

• Gym membership: £20 – £40 per month. 

• Cinema ticket: £8 – £12. 

• Coffee: £2.50 – £3 per cup. 

6. Miscellaneous: 

• Mobile phone plan: £10 – £30 per month. 

• Clothing, personal care, etc.: £50 – £100 per month. 

7. Other Costs: 

• Health insurance (if required): For international students, healthcare is typically covered by the NHS surcharge paid with the visa application. But, additional private coverage could cost around £20 – £40 per month. 

a. Total Estimated Monthly Costs: 

• Low-range budget: £800 – £1,000 per month (including rent). 

• Mid-range budget: £1,100 – £1,400 per month. 

b.Travelling in Ipswich 

Buses, taxis, and ride-sharing are the public transportation options in Ipswich. Cycling is also very popular in the town. 

c. Best Clubs in Ipswich 

Students can enjoy visiting clubs during their stay in Ipswich. These clubs comprise wonderful nightlife. Some best clubs are: 

• Unit 17 

• Trinity Park 

• INK Nightclub 

• Briarbank Bar 

• Isaacs on the Quay 

• The Rep 

• The Dove Street Inn 

• Bowmans Club 

d. Best Restaurants in Ipswich 

You would also like to go for eating out in Ipswich from time to time. Here are some best restaurants in the town for you. 

• The Gallery at the Woolpack 

• Maharani Indian Restaurant 

• Cult Cafe 

• Arlingtons Brasserie 

• Applaud Coffee 

• The Green Room 

• Zen Noodle Bar 

• Aqua Eight 

• Cosy Club 

• The Waterfront Bistro 

e. Student Apps 

Student apps are helpful for students in Ipswich for different purposes. A few of them include: 

Evernote: Note-taking and organizing app. 

Trello: Task and project management. 

Forest: Focus and productivity tracker. 

Duolingo: Language learning app. 

University Living’s App: App of University Living, the accommodation service platform. 

f. Tourist Attractions in Ipswich 

You can enjoy visiting tourist attractions during your weekends and other holidays. Here are some popular tourist attractions in Ipswich. 

• Christchurch Park 

• Ipswich Waterfront 

• Christchurch Mansion 

• Ipswich Museum 

• Holywells Park 

• St Mary-le-Tower Church 

• The Giles Statue 

• Suffolk Wildlife Trust (Arger Fen) 

• Ancient House 

The New Wolsey Theatre 

Read more: Cost of Living in Bolton For International Students in 2024