Ice House About 200 Metres North Of Christchurch Mansion

The ice house, located about 200 metres north of Christchurch Mansion in Ipswich, is a structure from the 18th century, likely built around 1735 when Christchurch Park was improved. It is constructed of brick and features a deep underground circular chamber with a domed top. There is a brick vaulted antechamber leading to the entrance on the north side, which is currently blocked and can be accessed by 20th-century concrete steps. Inside the chamber, there is a swamp at the bottom, and it is noted that the crown of the dome is said to have collapsed. This ice house is situated within Christchurch Park, which is now a municipal park and is associated with Christchurch Mansion, a building listed as grade I that was originally constructed in 1548 after the dissolution of the Augustinian Priory in 1536 and was partially rebuilt in 1675 following a fire. The ice house was likely built when Claude Fonnereau acquired the estate. Christchurch Park is also recognized in the Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest at grade II.