Ipswich council is looking for a new operator for the Christchurch Mansion cafe and is offering the lease for £22,000.

The current lease is about to expire - although the cafe remains open at present.

The lease is includes an outdoor seating area, kitchen, and basement with a hatch opening on to the path beside the round pond.

The lease also includes the separate kiosk near the children's playground which is very popular selling ice creams and drinks to visitors.

The Council is reviewing all options at the expiry of the current lease, to ensure the tenant can provide a strong food and drink offering in this unique location.

The new leaseholder should trade on Saturdays and Sundays and on weekdays when there is the demand - particularly during school holidays. The rental guide price is £22,500 per annum for the lease.

Ipswich Star: Deputy leader Bryony Rudkin.Deputy leader Bryony Rudkin. (Image: Ipswich Borough Council)

Council deputy leader Bryony Rudkin said:“The current lease period for the café/tearoom and kiosk in Christchurch Park has expired. We are now looking to secure a new lease for the premises and welcome applications.

"With more than 100,000 visitors to Christchurch Park every year, we’re looking for a new tenant who can provide an excellent food and drink offering in our award-winning park for visitors.

"As the only premises permitted to regularly serve food and drinks in the park, this is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to establish a successful catering business in the local area, in a beautiful public favourite visitor location in Ipswich.”

The cafe has always been very popular in good weather - it can either be reached through the Mansion or from the part beside the round pond.

The lease is being marketed by estate agents Clarke and Simpson and it is hoped to have a new operator in place as soon as possible.