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Ipswich Fat Cat
Ipswich Fat Cat
formerly Spring Tavern
North, 52.05905,1.18103
Cask Ale is sold here.
288 Spring Rd, IP4 5NL
grid reference TM 181 448
Freehouse, opened Victorian (renamed 1996)
The Fat Cat is popular small, multi-roomed real ale bar with no music and no games machines. The conservatory to the rear of the pub creates an airy space in contrast to the cosy bar areas and leads out to the pretty garden.
There are only two handpumps, but don't be fooled; there's an extensive range of well-kept cask ales served direct from casks in the taproom. Look at the blackboards above the bar for a list of what is currently available. Regular favourites such as Adnams and Woodforde's are to be found alongside a changing range of cask ales from around the region and the country. There is also a small but carefully chosen range of Belgian bottled ales. In addition, two craft keg ales are usually available; Three Blind Mice Juice Rocket and another changing ale.
The pub regularly stocks up to five real ciders. The beer selection may peak on a Friday evening (up to 15 may be available) and then reduces during early weekdays. The pub's website helpfully indicates the beers that are available and those coming soon.
Access from the street involves steep steps, but a ramp is available for those with limited mobility; please ask the staff to deploy it. Please note that the toilets in this Victorian pub are not accessible for wheelchair users.
You are welcome to order in a takeaway to the pub, and the pub will supply plates & cutlery. Please scrape your plates and leave them in the kitchen area afterwards.
The pub is very popular and in the summertime many visitors head into the garden or onto the patio. Make sure to take time to explore the enamel signs and other artefacts scattered around the walls.
No children under 18 allowed. Dogs are allowed but MUST be on a lead.
There are monthly quiz nights on Mondays to raise money for local charities.
The Pub was awarded Local branch Town Pub of the Year for 2012, 2013, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2023.
Facilities
Accessible to disabled customers: Access from the street involves steep steps, but a ramp is available for those with limited mobility; please ask the staff to deploy it. Please note that the toilets in this Victorian pub are not accessible for wheelchair users.
Beer garden or other outside drinking area
Beer served direct from the barrel by gravity
Beer served through handpumps
Bus stop nearby (see transport links for details)
Cider (real draught, not keg) available
Dogs welcome: well behaved on a lead
Lunchtime meals (not just snacks): snacks
Newspapers available
Quiet pub - no electronic games, piped music or jukebox
Smoking area: heated area in garden
Special events: monthly quiz nights on Mondays
WiFi available
Railway station about 0.6 miles away (see transport links for details)
Gallery
Nearest railway station
Historical interest
Owner/operator: freeFormerly the Spring Tavern. Feline relative of the original pub in Norwich, now offering up to 15 real ales. Decorated with old enamel signs.…
Landlords
(Most pub, location & historic details collated by Nigel, Tony or Keith - original sources are credited)
(** historic newspaper information from Stuart Ansell)



Derby Road: 0.6 miles (1.0km)