Ipswich Large Cat Sightings
The A12 bypass near Ipswich has been the site of numerous reported sightings of large cats, often referred to as ABCs (Alien Big Cats), with the first recorded sightings dating back to 1996. These sightings have continued well into the 2000s, leaving many to wonder if there's any truth behind the claims. While there's no concrete evidence to prove the existence of these mysterious felines, the sheer number of reports from credible witnesses suggests that something unusual may be occurring in this stretch of road.
Historically, reports of strange animals in the British countryside have been documented for centuries, but the Ipswich large cat sightings remain one of the most enduring and intriguing cases. During 1996, a rash of sightings took place in and around the Ipswich area, with multiple witnesses describing similar large, cat-like creatures. While some have speculated about the possible connection to known animals or hoaxes, the fact remains that numerous people have reported seeing these creatures over the years, often describing them as large, black, and elusive.
Rural legends of strange animals in the British countryside date back centuries
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
The Little Girl of Sailmakers
Shop in Tower Ramparts, Ipswich
Sailmakers in Ipswich has a reputation for being one of the most haunted shops in Suffolk. It's said that a little girl has been spotted peering through the bars of the staircase by staff members. But that's not all - a man in grey has also been seen walking around the shop, often being mistaken for a customer. Boxes have even been known to fall off shelves without any apparent reason. These strange occurrences have left many wondering if the shop is indeed haunted.
Christchurch Mansion Ghostly Apparition
Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich
Christchurch Mansion in Ipswich has a long history of paranormal activity, with reports dating back to the summer of 1995. A female witness and her daughter were walking through the mansion when they saw a Victorian woman walk by them, passing through a closed glass door. Pictures on the walls have also been seen turning themselves, adding to the eerie atmosphere of this historic location.
Ghostly Organists of Ipswich
Tourist Information Centre, Ipswich
The Ipswich Tourist Information Centre, once St Stephen's Church, is said to be haunted by the ghostly apparitions of two elderly sisters who were devoted organists at the church. These phantom women are believed to have died shortly after their beloved place of worship closed its doors permanently. Staff working at the centre have reported strange occurrences and sightings of the two spinsters, who seem to linger in the building, perhaps replaying fond memories of playing the organ.
Monk's Phantom Footsteps
WS Cowell's, Ipswich
The Buttermarket Centre in Ipswich, Suffolk, is home to a rather unusual ghostly presence. Employees at the old WS Cowell's building, which once stood on this site, reported strange occurrences that cant be easily explained. A few people claimed to have seen an old monk wandering around, causing quite a stir. Two women, on separate occasions, were so startled by the apparition that they fainted, while a man fled in fright during his night shift. Its not just visual sightings that have been reported; phantom footsteps and the sound of jangling keys have also been heard, particularly by a cleaner working in the shopping centre.
Ipswich Poltergeist Haunting
Former Lakeland Plastics building, Ipswich
The Former Lakeland Plastics building in Ipswich, Suffolk, is home to a rather mischievous poltergeist. This entity, believed to be the ghost of Mother Lakeland, a wise woman or witch who once lived in the area, has been blamed for moving displays around the shop. The building itself has a fascinating history, with a fifteenth century chapel hidden within its walls for many years. This chapel, now open to the public, adds to the site's mystique and paranormal allure.
Spinning Lights of Orwell Bridge
Orwell Bridge and the A12 towards Felixstowe, Ipswich
Orwell Bridge stands tall over the River Orwell, a major crossing point in Ipswich, Suffolk. On a quiet night in August 2006, a teenager driving across the bridge reported being followed by two dull, spinning lights for several miles. The lights remained in front of the car, turning at the same time as the driver, creating an unnerving experience. This incident wasn't an isolated one, as several other witnesses came forward to report seeing similar lights around the Nacton Road area at roughly the same time.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near A12 bypass near Ipswich

Seckford Hall Hotel
Woodbridge, Suffolk

The Mistley Thorn Hotel
Mistley (near Manningtree), Essex

The Crown
Framlingham, Suffolk

The Rose and Crown
Colchester, Essex