Christchurch Mansion

Visiting Christchurch Mansion

Please note, the Wolsey Art Gallery will be closed until Saturday 27th November while we install our next exhibition.

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For the continued safety and comfort of our visitors and staff we request the wearing of face coverings whilst visiting, unless you are exempt.

Please respect others’ personal space whilst visiting our sites, and be mindful when in ‘tighter’ spaces.

Please be mindful that our interactives are for the enjoyment of everyone, so use hand sanitiser before and after use.

Welcome

One of Suffolk’s most treasured buildings, this beautiful Tudor mansion is the jewel in the crown of Ipswich’s historic past, boasting over 500 years of history.

Explore the period rooms from the Tudor kitchen to the sumptuous Georgian saloon and the beautifully detailed Victorian wing.

Gaze at the fine collection of art from Suffolk artists including the biggest collection of Thomas Gainsborough and John Constable paintings outside of London.

History

What You Can See

The Building

Christchurch Mansion is built on the site of the Holy Trinity Priory, which was founded in the 12th Century.

The walls and floors bear the scars of over 450 years of changing designs. The rooms are set in period fashions from the Tudors right through to the Victorians.

The Rooms

Step back in time as you walk through Christchurch Mansion. From the Kitchen to the State Bedroom, the Butler’s Room to the Queen Anne Room, you can begin to imagine how the past owners of Christchurch Mansion and their servants would have lived.

The Collections

From musical instruments and toys to intricate glassware ceramics, the displays within Christchurch Mansion include something for everyone.

The Suffolk Artists Gallery is where you will find our incredible collection of Thomas Gainsborough and John Constable paintings.

Creating Constable

27th November – 24th April 2022

Explore the early Suffolk influences and personal friendships that created Constable the artist. The show features loans from the V&A, private collections and four new Constable artworks that have never been on display before.

Find Out More

Travelers Choice Award 2020 from Tripadvisor

Plan Your Visit

Opening Times

Tuesday – Saturday
10am – 4pm (November – February)
10am – 5pm (March – October)

Sunday
11am – 4pm (November – February)
11am – 5pm (March – October)

Mondays closed

Children

Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult

Free admission

Booking not required

Getting around

Directions

Museum flooplan

Shop

Our museum shop offers a wide range of products, from greetings cards to beautiful homeware, as well as various pieces inspired by our current exhibition. Whether you’re looking for a memento or the perfect gift, we have something for all tastes and budgets.

The Ed Sheeran: Made in Suffolk exhibition is now closed, but the online shop remains open for orders.

Cafe

The Mansion Tea Room serves a range of hot and cold drinks, which are also available to take away. Throughout the day you can choose from a selection of fresh sandwiches, tea cakes, scones, chocolate bars and crisps.

If you would like to know more information on what is on offer or for any special requirements please contact Brad and Kate Firkins on 07772 834198.

The Tea Room can be accessed externally from the park. Alternatively, it has level access from inside the Mansion. Please note, the doorway is narrow, which may be difficult for some wheelchair users.

Access

Whether you want to know when the Mansion is quieter, what to expect when you arrive or what facilities we have, simply follow the link below to find out more.

If you cannot find the answers you are looking for, please contact us on 01206 282939 or email museums@colchester.gov.uk and our team will be happy to help.

More Information