Ipswich has evolved into a regional centre of excellence with lots of stylish places to eat and drink, great shopping with a good representation of high street stores and smaller independent shops, and excellent leisure and entertainment facilities.

Ipswich town centre has a great range of shopping facilities. Many leading national retailers trade in Ipswich, either on one of the main thoroughfares such as Tavern Street, Westgate Street and the Buttermarket, or in one of the two large shopping complexes - Sailmakers and The Buttermarket Shopping Centre.

Ipswich is proud of its strong core of independent retailers who add variety and are successful in the town. The street pattern of central Ipswich has changed little since medieval and saxon times and these smaller streets and historic buildings lend themselves well to the independent, boutique style of retailer. They can be found in various locations around Ipswich including The Walk and Dial Lane, St Peter's Street, St Nicholas Street and Fore Street.

Ipswich is truly a town of contrasts. Its vibrant shopping district and variety of entertainment facilities are complemented by over 800 acres of parkland and open space and its central conservation area boasts more than 600 listed buildings, including 12 medieval churches.

For more information on what to see and do in Ipswich and its town centre visit www.allaboutipswich.com/