T: 01473 284000 E: Message Us

History

History

/ History

The Isaacs on the Quay story

Isaacs on the Quay sits along one of the most important historical features of Ipswich’s past – the now regenerated waterfront has long been a trading hub for the town. The complex of buildings that make up Isaacs on the Quay has a long history, too, with its own story dating back from medieval times.

From medieval

While we carry the name of Isaac Lord – a local businessman who bought the property from the Cobbold brewing family in 1900 – Isaacs on the Quay is set in a collection of Grade I and Grade II* listed buildings – including medieval and Tudor – some of the oldest sections were constructed between 1430 and 1550.

Home and the way of life of a wool merchant when Ipswich was one of the most prosperous and important towns in England, our buildings retain many of their original features, including the carefully restored corn-dressing machine – a rare survival of an 18 century hand-malting concern – in the Machine Room. The Merchant House was built in 1636 and has since been lovingly restored into a fully functional guest house, which sleeps up to 14 people across four double bedrooms and sofa beds in the lounge area.

To modern times

Isaac Lord purchased the Isaacs on the Quay buildings around 1900 and they continued to be used for trading coal and corn until the 1980s. John Cobbold, known locally due to the Tolly Cobbold brewery, also once lived in the Isaac Lord house.

The Isaacs on the Quay complex received a direct hit in Second World War. The Foreman’s Cottage, which was attached to the Crossways, was destroyed, as was part of the Saleroom roof. Thankfully, though, nothing else was damaged.

Our Grade I and II* listed warehouse has been lovingly restored and converted to a bar, restaurant and private function facility. Although it’s now one of Ipswich Waterfront’s most popular venues for drinking, dining and celebrating, there are many original features throughout the building and many pieces of equipment used during the building’s long and industrious past are still on display.

Our story continues and, at Isaacs on the Quay, we’re passionate about bringing our customers new experiences that can be enjoyed in our historical setting.