Ancient House, Ipswich

A stunning Grade 1 listed ancient monument dating from the 15th Century

(I was sheltering from the rain in the shop doorway opposite, it was a very narrow street, not very conducive to photography)


The decorative plasterwork (pargeting) and carving added in the 17th Century is one of the finest examples in the UK.

The interior, including 16th Century wall paintings and further examples of carving and pargeting, is well worth exploring, especially as it is also home to occasional art displays and exhibitions.

The four panels representing the continents of Africa, Asia, Europe and America provide a glimpse of how the craftsmen viewed the outside world with Australasia, yet to be discovered, conspicuous by its absence.

Ancient House is located in town centre at junction of Buttermarket/St Stephens Lane.