First look inside new restaurant at Ipswich venue – as outdoor stage plans take shape

There has been major investment on the changes at Greshams Ipswich Picture: RACHEL EDGE (Image: RACHEL EDGE)

Greshams Ipswich, in Tuddenham Road, has seen a major investment to transform the site in the last year.

Its new-look Willow Suite is already proving a very popular venue for big events of up to 250 people - staging music, comedy, weddings and corporate events.

The prestigious Stars of Suffolk awards were even hosted there on Thursday evening, proving to be a major success.

Its restaurant has recently relaunched as 16 Steak House and Grill, run by well-known Suffolk chef Jamie Lee Smith.

The prestigious Stars of Suffolk 2019 awards were held at Greshams on Thursday Photo: Brittany Woodman (Image: Archant)

Bosses say they have had fantastic feedback since the change.

Meanwhile, there are also plans to further develop outside seating areas at the front of the premises.

But the developments don't stop there - work has started on a new permanent, outdoor stage, which will make use of the huge 22 acre site.

Mick Parker, director at Greshams, said they were excited about the developments.

The 16 Steak House and Grill has proved popular Picture: RACHEL EDGE (Image: RACHEL EDGE)

He said: "We are delivering really quality events, really comfortable rooms and spaces and it's very competitive.

"We think it's a brilliant overall package."

There are already 84 events planned at the Willow Suite for 2020, and the new restaurant is already proving very popular.

However, it's the addition of an outdoor stage which is opening up even greater possibilities.

The Willow Suite at Greshams Ipswich already has more than 80 events planned next year Picture: RACHEL EDGE (Image: RACHEL EDGE)

"We are looking to bring big outdoor events to Greshams," said Mr Parker.

"Because it is a permanent stage, if anybody wants to hire our facilities we just have to throw a switch - it's all there."

There is also parking for around 1,000 cars for bigger outdoor events.

For booking enquiries, visit the Greshams Ipswich website.

Mick Parker, Director of Greshams Ipswich Picture: RACHEL EDGE (Image: RACHEL EDGE)

An outdoor area at the back of the Willow Suite Picture: RACHEL EDGE (Image: RACHEL EDGE)

Music and comedy nights are proving popular Picture: RACHEL EDGE (Image: RACHEL EDGE)

First look at new developments at Greshams Ipswich Picture: RACHEL EDGE (Image: RACHEL EDGE)

Jamie Lee Smith is the new chef at 16 restaurant at Greshams Ipswich Picture: RACHEL EDGE (Image: RACHEL EDGE)

First look at new developments at Greshams Ipswich Picture: RACHEL EDGE (Image: RACHEL EDGE)

First look at new developments at Greshams Ipswich Picture: RACHEL EDGE (Image: RACHEL EDGE)