Great Places of Ipswich

A rare invitation behind historic doors!

Great Places of Ipswich invites you to explore some of Ipswich’s most treasured heritage places.

Across one unforgettable day, wander through grand private homes, iconic public buildings, elegant interiors, heritage gardens and historic parklands. Along the way, discover the lives, ambitions and everyday moments of the characters, families and communities who shaped Ipswich across generations.

Roam at your own pace, and immerse yourself in Ipswich’s rich architectural, social and natural history through a carefully curated program of open homes, guided theatrical tours, garden experiences and hands‑on heritage displays.

Whether you’re a history lover, architecture enthusiast or simply curious about the stories hidden behind closed doors, Great Places of Ipswich offers a once‑a‑year opportunity to experience the city’s past in vivid, personal and unforgettable ways.

How Great Places of Ipswich Works

• This is a multi‑site, self‑paced event held across Ipswich
• Visitors can choose to visit one, several or all venues during the day
• All venues are open Saturday 12 September
• You must book a ticket to attend each site or tour, or book a package to access all sites
• You organise travel between sites all locations being with 10 minute drive of Queens Park
• Tours involve walking, including some uphill sections, roadways, footpaths, staircases and uneven surfaces and are not always easily accessible.
• Participants with accessibility requirements are encouraged to contact info@cityevents prior to booking to ensure that your needs can be met.
• Enclosed footwear and a hat are recommended.

About the properties:

The Chestnuts – 90 Nicholas Street, Ipswich
Saturday 12 September 10am – 2pm

Elegant, educational and deeply personal, The Chestnuts tells the story of women, learning and architectural ambition in nineteenth‑century Ipswich.

Originally part of a larger site known as Mona Lodge, The Chestnuts became home to Mary Darnley Morrison’s renowned finishing school — a place where generations of young Ipswich women were educated in music, dance and social refinement. Designed by architect J. Mackenzie, the three‑storey brick residence features verandahs with cast‑iron balustrading, cedar interiors and a striking attic space that hints at its layered past.

As you explore the house, discover how domestic life, education and architecture intersected within its walls.

Rhossilli – 4 Glebe Road, Ipswich
Saturday 12 September 10am – 2pm

Step behind the doors of Rhossilli and discover one of Ipswich’s most cherished heritage homes. Set on land once occupied by Postmaster Richard Gill’s 200-acre dairy farm, this elegant residence has witnessed more than a century of local stories. From prominent families and civic leaders to its years as a convalescent home, nursing home and hostel, Rhossilli has continually evolved while retaining its remarkable character. Lovingly restored, this home offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience its history firsthand.