Midgar Coffee brings its independent spirit to Ipswich Waterfront

Award-winning independent coffee house Midgar Coffee will officially open its new Ipswich Waterfront location on Wednesday, 11th November, bringing the quality, hospitality and community spirit of its Bury St Edmunds home to a second Suffolk location.

Situated within the University of Suffolk’s Waterfront Building, Midgar Ipswich is an independently owned coffee house open to everyone, from local residents and waterfront visitors to nearby businesses, University staff and students.

The opening builds on a successful year for Midgar, whose awards include Muddy Stilettos Best Café 2026, Business of the Year (Small) at the West Suffolk Business Awards 2026, and Best Tearoom/Coffee Shop at the Velvet Food & Drink Awards 2025.

Guests can expect speciality coffee, ceremonial grade matcha, freshly prepared food and Holly Bakes cakes, alongside the warm welcome and attention to detail that have helped build Midgar’s reputation in Bury St Edmunds. Whether stopping for a takeaway, meeting friends or taking a break by the waterfront, the aim is to create a welcoming place people want to return to.

Midgar’s owner, Stuart Hansord-Rose, is bringing the same independent approach to the new location, with a focus on quality, genuine hospitality and becoming part of the local community.

The opening follows a short period serving guests during the University’s graduation celebrations. A refurbishment is planned for late December and early January to bring more of Midgar’s identity into the space.

Midgar has thanked the University of Suffolk and Paddy & Scott’s for their support in bringing the new coffee house to the waterfront.

Nigel Lucker, Chief Estates Officer, University of Suffolk, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Midgar Coffee to the waterfront building and to become part of the University community. Midgar has an excellent reputation, and the cafe will offer a much-needed meeting place for our students, staff, visitors and local residents.”

University of Suffolk students and staff will receive a 10% discount, with a 10% discount also available to Blue Light Card holders.

Guests can also collect points through Midgar’s loyalty scheme, earning a free prepared drink when they reach their tenth point. Bottled and canned drinks are excluded.

Opening hours

Monday–Friday: 8am–4pm
Saturday: 9am–4pm
Sunday: 9am–3pm