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

A new restaurant has been unveiled at a popular Ipswich venue, which has also revealed ambitious plans for a permanent outdoor stage to host major events.

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.

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.

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.

"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.