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The Old Times Public House

Discover The Old Times Public House in Ipswich, a beloved local pub offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere, handcrafted snacks, live sports, and a vibrant community space. Rated 4.4 for its genuine spirit, friendly service, and inclusive gatherings—perfect

The Old Times, 324 Spring Rd, Ipswich IP4 5NG, United Kingdom View on map
8.8/10
Very Good Based on 118 recent guest reviews
What recent guests emphasize

The Old Times Public House

Guests appreciate this traditional inn for its friendly atmosphere, community spirit, and relaxed setting, making it a well-loved local spot for socializing and sports viewing.

Guests often praise

  • The welcoming and efficient staff who create a polite and friendly environment.
  • The sense of community, with a diverse mix of locals and visitors forming a relaxed atmosphere.
  • The enclosed beer garden with a large screen for watching football and enjoying the outdoors.
  • Reasonably priced drinks and knowledgeable bar staff attentive to guests' needs.
  • Regular social events like charity quizzes that add to the community vibe.

Worth knowing

  • The pub offers only a limited selection of real ales but maintains quality well.
  • Snack options include meals cooked by the landlady on request or take-away orders brought in by guests.
  • Not within walking distance for some visitors, which may limit frequency of visits.
  • The venue features traditional decor, including an old-school carpet noted by several guests.
  • Facilities include live sports broadcasts and pool, enhancing the social experience.

Best for

  • Those seeking a genuine old-school pub atmosphere with friendly locals and bar staff.
  • Football fans who want a comfortable place to watch games, both indoors and in the beer garden.
  • Families and groups looking for a casual venue with space for gatherings and occasional catered snacks.
  • Visitors interested in community events such as monthly charity quizzes.
  • Guests who appreciate a traditional pub experience with a strong local community feel.
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About this property

Welcome to The Old Times Public House

The Old Times Public House, situated at 324 Spring Rd, Ipswich, stands as a testament to the enduring charm of a true neighborhood pub. With a commendable rating of 4.4, it is cherished not only for its inviting atmosphere but also for its role as a hub of community life.

More than just a place to enjoy a drink, The Old Times fosters a sense of belonging. The friendly, efficient staff strike the perfect balance of professionalism and warmth, making every guest feel welcomed. Patrons like Nick Andrews commend the pub for its conscientious approach to health and safety, with hand sanitizers readily available, ensuring comfort in times when caution matters most.

Families find The Old Times equally inviting. The enclosed garden offers a safe, pleasant space for gatherings, while the back room accommodates larger groups. The landlady’s willingness to prepare delicious snacks or buffets adds a personal touch, blending hospitality with affordability. Events such as the monthly charity quiz enliven the atmosphere, drawing in locals with spirited competition and camaraderie.

The diversity of clientele reflects the pub’s open-door policy: from locals enjoying limited yet well-maintained real ales to football fans united in front of the sports television, and even patrons with four-legged friends. The Old Times is where stories are shared, friendships are forged, and everyday moments become memorable. Long-time visitors like Lee Adams appreciate its consistency, finding comfort in its familiar, old-school vibe that has remained unchanged over decades.

Its amenities—live sports, pool tables, and a well-stocked bar—cater to varied tastes, while reasonable prices ensure accessibility. A friendly barkeep and an ambiance that is relaxed yet lively make The Old Times Public House not just a pub, but an essential piece of the local fabric.

In essence, The Old Times Public House is more than brick and timber; it is a living, breathing heart of Ipswich’s community—a place where heritage meets hospitality, and where every visit feels like coming home.

Summary compiled by GoHotelly editors from verified guest reviews, partner descriptions and editorial notes.
Verified guest reviews

What recent guests are actually saying

Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.

NA
Nick Andrews Dec 06, 2025
10

After lockdown its a nice place to go. The staff are efficient, polite and friendly and the customers, on my experience are very sensible. There is hand gel everywhere, so there is no excuse for not being careful. Well done all at the pub.

RT
Rachel Tuffin Nov 30, 2025
10

Our family love The Old Times and have many a family gathering here. There is a lovely enclosed garden with closed in area for Sports T.V. Also a good sized back room. The landlady will cook some delicious snacks/buffet food if requested for a reasonable cost or they dont mind you ordering take-aways. We have just been to a Charity quiz which they host once a month with a really good quiz master. Its for a good cause each time. Come on give it a go ,its fun! The only problem for us is it not within walking distanceotherwise we would visit more often!

SA
Sue Andrews Oct 24, 2025
8.0

The Old Times is a real pub. Huge mix of people, limited real ale but kept very well, good Bar staff and relaxed atmosphere.

D
Duncan Oct 16, 2025
10

The old times pub is more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s a gathering spot, a community hub where friendships are forged over pints, and where the love of football and four-legged companions brings everyone together in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.The bar is lined with a variety of spirits, the friendly staff and local say hello & goodbye to everyone who comes & goes. Also, check out the amazing old school carpet. Highly recommend.

LA
Lee Adams Oct 15, 2025
10

I've always enjoyed a visit to The Old Times. I first dropped in 20 years ago when I moved into a flat on Spring Road with my girlfriend. Now I live abroad, it is where I always go to meet a mate, watch a bit of footy, and... you know... get a taste of old times. It hasn't changed all that much in two decades and that's all for the better, because what we have here is a proper old-school pub with a warm and welcoming interior, relaxed bar staff, and friendly locals. It has a fair selection of beers on tap and a few snacks and TVs dotted around so you won't miss any of the action if you're there for the football, including a big screen in the pleasant beer garden out back. With this, the Fat Cat, and the three nearby takeaways, you don't really need to leave the vicinity of the Spring Road/Cauldwell Hall Road crossing! Classic.

S
Strydr Oct 07, 2025
10

Good locals pub with reasonably priced drinks. Live sports, pool available too. Friendly barkeep and nice carpet.

Location & neighborhood

Where you'll find The Old Times Public House

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