The 21 Best Things to See and Do in Colchester (2024)
Colchester, often hailed as Britain's oldest recorded town and more recently Britain's First City (since being awarded city status in 2022), offers a captivating destination for visitors seeking a day trip or a longer getaway.
Steeped in history and boasting a colourful past, this historic town served as the former capital of Roman Britain. From enduring the fierce sacking by Boudicca and the Iceni tribe during Roman times to enduring the intense 11-day Siege of Colchester during the English Civil War, Colchester has witnessed some significant events that have shaped its character.
As you stroll through the town centre, you will find historical buildings and archaeological sites that intertwine with modern contemporary structures, like the renowned Firstsite art gallery.
Conveniently located less than an hour away from London by train or car, Colchester proves to be an ideal day trip or long-weekend destination. Its accessibility from nearby towns and cities makes it a highly accessible and desirable choice for travelers.
In this article, I will set out the best Colchester attractions and destinations to visit to help plan your trip here. From the abundance of activities and fun things to do to the must-visit historical sites and pretty picnic areas, this guide will assist you in planning a fulfilling visit to Colchester.
1. Colchester Castle Park
Colchester Castle Park is a fabulous Victorian park located in the heart of the town centre, with Colchester Castle in a prominent position on the upper slopes and the Roman Wall on the lower slopes.
This pretty park within the grounds of Colchester Castle is a peaceful place away from the bustling town centre streets where you can sit, relax and have a picnic.
Colchester Castle Park contains open spaces, award winning horticulture, a children’s play area, and has access to two museums; Colchester Castle and Hollytrees (see below). This park also plays host to special events and there is often music playing from the traditional band stand.
2. Colchester Castle
Colchester Castle, an historic building of great importance, greets you as you enter the park from the High Street. It is the largest Norman Keep in Europe and was constructed on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius and used Roman bricks in its construction.
Colchester Castle Museum is housed within Colchester Castle. The museum showcases the rich history of Colchester, exploring it’s Roman origins, its significance during the Norman period, and its development throughout the centuries. The interactive exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including archaeology, Roman artifacts, medieval history, and the Siege of Colchester during the English Civil War.
Visitors to Colchester Castle Museum can also explore the castle's various levels and chambers, including the vaults, where they can see interactive displays, archaeological finds, and multimedia presentations.
The Castle Museum has many treasures to explore and has interactive displays for the children. The entry cost is from £10.95 for adults and £5.95 for children.
3. Walk around Colchester’s Roman Wall
Colchester, or Camulodunum, using its Roman name, was the home to the first permanent Roman fortress in Britain and was its first capital city. Many parts of the Roman Wall in Colchester can still be seen today. It is also possible to see how parts of the wall have been recycled through the years in the building of some of Colchester’s other historic buildings dotted throughout the town centre, including its castle and the churches.
The original wall stretched to about 2.7 km in length and still surrounds the modern town centre. It is possible to loosely follow the route of the wall, but the places to view it are:
Castle Park
One of the best places to view the Roman wall is at the bottom of Castle Park, where a large 500 metre section divides the park into the Upper and Lower sections. It is possible to follow the footpath at this location to get a sense of the scale of how big the wall was during Roman times.
Balkerne Hill
Balkerne Hill to the west of the Town Centre, contains Balkerne Gate, which is Britain’s oldest and most intact Roman gate. This would have been the main entrance into the Roman town and is still a key entrance into the modern town.
The wall runs the length of Balkerne Hill and contains the Hole in the Wall pub next to Balkerne Gate which as the name suggests has filled a hole in the wall.
Vineyard Street
To the south of the town along Vineyard Street, the Roman wall can be seen from the car park. This could be considered a disappointing view, but in my opinion it is interesting; it is particularly pretty at this location, but shows how the town has evolved over the years and extended beyond and over the wall. The shops along Eld Lane and Sir Isaac's Walk have literally been built on top of the wall.
Priory Street
Further along to the south-east, a well-preserved section of the wall can be seen from Priory Street. The wall follows the curve of Priory Street, and past the ruins of St Botolph's Priory. The section of the wall was fortified but also damaged at the time of the English Civil War. Other fortifications at this location were added during different periods of history. It is also possible to view the walls from the terrace at Firstsite, which sits within the original town.
This is a good location to also see the ruins of St Botolph’s Priory, which was built during Norman times by using recycled Roman bricks, as can be seen in the ruined priory arches and walls. This historic building was also badly damaged during the English Civil War.
This section of the Roman Wall is conveniently located close to Colchester Town Station.
Humpty Dumpty
The world famous nursery rhyme ‘Humpty Dumpty’ is believed to have been inspired by a cannon in Colchester during the English Civil War.
The name ‘Humpty Dumpty’ is believed to have been the name given to a large cannon used by the Royalists (Cavaliers) during the English Civil War.
The cannon sat on top of the Roman wall and was used to bombard Parliamentarian troops (Roundheads) who were laying siege to the town. The storey goes that ‘Humpty Dumpty’, the cannon, fell from the Roman wall after the wall had been damaged by fire from the Roundheads, and the Royalists (the king’s men) could not put it back together again after the fall.
4. Colchester Firstsite
Firstsite art gallery is a free contemporary art gallery in Colchester that seeks to explore the East of England’s rich artistic legacy cultivated by its unique landscape and character. It is an important national art museum that was awarded the title Art Fund Museum of the Year 2021. For more detailed information about Colchester Firstsite, please read here.
In addition to its vibrant programme of exhibitions, Firstsite also shows films and carries out workshops and cultural activities.
Firstsite is located to the south of the High Street and has the Roman Wall as its backdrop. The building itself is a contemporary curved structure that creates a dramatic appearance from the outside with a versatile and unique gallery space on the inside.
Firstsite has displayed work from many international artists including Antony Gormley, László Moholy-Nagy, Eduardo Paolozzi, Grayson Perry, and Andy Warhol.
Firstsite welcomes visitors of all ages and runs an extensive variety of activities for children, particularly at weekends and in the school holidays.
The Berryfield Mosaic lies at its heart. This Roman Mosaic was discovered during the construction of the building and now forms a permanent display under clear flooring.
Firstsite’s cinema also screens an excellent mix of films and live events including popular releases, and cult classic films, and live theatre, ballet, opera and music concerts.
More information about Firstsite and the latest exhibitions can be found here.
5. The Minories
The Minories Art Gallery is located opposite Hollytrees Museum along the High Street. It displays works of art the late Clarence Victor Batte-Lay, as well as a variety of works from local artists. Their most recent programme has sought to support emerging artists and artists from under-represented groups.
6. Hollytrees Museum
Hollytrees Musuem is a free museum located in an early-Georgian townhouse at the edge of castle Park and the High Street.
This museum houses a range of collections, including toys, art, costumes and clocks. It is a fun place for children who like dressing up and playing with the toys and clothes that are available for them to use.
The Colchester visitor information centre is also located in this historic building.
7. Colchester Natural History Museum
Colchester Natural History Museum is a free museum located in the former All Saints Church. It is a family friendly museum, with interactive exhibits and displays that explore the local natural environment from the Ice Age right up to today. I would suggesting allowing for up to an hour to walk around this museum.
8. Roman Circus Centre
The Roman Circus Centre is located about a 10 to 15 minute walk to the south of Colchester town centre.
The Roman Circus was a venue for chariot races and had a capacity for approximately 8,000 spectators. The visitor centre explains how Britain’s only known Roman circus was discovered in 2005, as well as displaying its foundations and artefacts unearthed in excavations.
9. Wander Around Colchester’s Historic Dutch Quarter
Named after 16th Century Flemish Protestant refugees who lived here, the historic Dutch Quarter is a quiet residential area located to the north of the High Street and centres on the lanes that head down the hill towards the Roman Wall i.e. Maidenburgh Street, West Stockwell Street, East Stockwell Street, Stockwell Street, St Helen's Lane, Northgate Street and Nunn's Road.
These lanes are very pretty and have their own character, with a number of hidden surprises to be found within them, such as:
Hidden in what appears to be a terraced house along Maidenburgh Street is an archaeological display of the foundations of a 3,000 capacity Roman Theatre dating from the 2nd and 3rd centuries.
No 11/12 West Stockwell Street is also the location where the Taylor sisters lived, who wrote the world-famous nursery rhyme ‘Twinkle Twinkle Little Star’. A statue of the sisters can be found along the High Street.
When walking around the area, it is possible to spot buildings and churches that have recycled and used bricks from the Roman Wall, showing how the towns Roman past is still embedded into its streets.
Colchester’s High Street can be glimpsed in the views up the hill.
10. Shop in Colchester’s Lanes
Colchester's South Lanes are home to over 70 small and independent shops and businesses. These lanes are focused on Sir Isaac's Walk, Eld Lane, Trinity Street and Scheregate Steps.
Colchester High Street is also another good location for shopping, with a large number of national retailers and restaurants located along here, and as well as market stalls. The ‘Jumbo’ water tower can be spotted in the distance peering over the buildings.
11. Mercury Theatre
The Mercury Theatre is adjacent to Balkerne gate and takes its name from the Roman messenger god, Mercury. This theatre is a renowned performing arts venue that puts on high quality events, including stand-up comedy, musicals, dance, variety shows or live music.
The Mercury Theatre also contains The Digby Gallery, which displays exhibitions of local art.
More information about the latest events can be found here.
Colchester’s theatres are located near Balkerne Gate in the shadows of the town’s other local landmark, ‘Jumbo’, a large Victorian water tower that was named after an elephant that once lived at London Zoo.
12. Colchester Arts Centre
Colchester Arts Centre is located in a small church to the rear of the Mercury Theatre. This venue has played host to such acts as Ronnie Scott, Eddie Izzard, Catherine Tate, The Libertines, The Killers, amongst many others. The venue has a regular events list, with a focus on new acts and art forms. It would be well worth checking out what is on if staying overnight in Colchester.
More information about the latest events can be found here.
13. Colchester Zoo
Colchester Zoo is a very popular attraction and is a day trip in itself. The site is located at the edge of Colchester, and is easily accessible by car. The zoo has more than 260 species from all corners of the globe, with themed zones including the Orangutan Forest, the Kingdom of the Wild, containing rhinos and giraffes, Edge of Africa amongst others.
14. Highwoods Country Park
Highwoods Country Park is about a mile from the town centre and comprises areas of woodland, scrub, meadows and lakes. The Park has outdoor play areas for children. It is a popular area with locals for walking and having picnics.
15. Explore Cudmore Grove Country Park, East Mersea
Cudmore Grove Country Park is a picturesque coastal nature reserve located on the eastern side of Mersea Island and about 11 miles south of Colchester. It is perfect for nature lovers.
Cudmore Grove Country Park covers an area of 97 acres and offers a wide range of outdoor activities and natural features for visitors to explore.
One of the highlights is its stunning coastal views, with sweeping panoramas of the estuary looking towards the North Sea, salt marshes, and beaches.
The beaches are characterised by the abundance of oyster shells that wash up. There are also the remains of various historic World War 2 defensive installations that can still be seen on the beach, but ave been colonised by marine plants.
The park is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species such as the brown hare and the little tern.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the park's woodland and grassy meadows, or follow one of the many walking trails that wind their way through the landscape.
There is a large picnic area close to the car park where visitors can stop for a snack or a drink and take in the beautiful surroundings. This area also has one of the best children’s play areas in Colchester.
A unique feature of Cudmore Grove is the foot ferry that operates between the park and the nearby town of Brightlingsea. The ferry offers a scenic and enjoyable way to travel between the two locations, and is a popular attraction for visitors to the area.
16. Visit West Mersea
West Mersea is a charming coastal town located on Mersea Island and about 9 miles to the south of Colchester.
West Mersea is famous for its delicious oysters and seafood, which are harvested locally and served up in a variety of restaurants and eateries throughout the area. If you're looking for a taste of the sea, here are some of the best things to do in West Mersea:
Take a stroll along the waterfront: West Mersea is a charming town with a picturesque waterfront area that's perfect for a leisurely stroll. You can take in the views of the estuary, watch the boats come and go, see the house boats and even spot some local wildlife along the way. You will even see children crabbing along the pontoon - a particular a favourite pastime for many younger ones !!
Enjoy a seafood feast: West Mersea is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the region, many of which are located along Coast Road.
No trip to West Mersea would be complete without trying some of the local oysters. These famous delicacies are harvested from the nearby oyster beds and served up in a variety of restaurants and seafood shacks throughout the town. Whether you're a seasoned oyster fan or a first-time taster, you're sure to enjoy the fresh, flavor of these local treasures.
One popular spot is the Company Shed, a casual eatery that serves up fresh oysters and locally caught seafood in a laid-back atmosphere. Other notable options include the The Dukes Seafood and the Coast Inn.
Relax on the beach: West Mersea has a beautiful sandy beach that's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. The beach is also lined with colorful beach huts that add a touch of charm to the scene.
Try your hand at water sports: West Mersea is a great place for water sports enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for kite surfing, sea kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, and windsurfing. The harbour area of West Mersea along Coast Road is a hub for water sports activities, with local companies offering equipment rental and lessons.
If you are visiting Colchester, be sure to include West Mersea as part of the trip. West Mersea is a delightful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a foodie, a beach lover, or an adrenaline junkie, you're sure to find plenty to do and see in this charming coastal town.
17. Explore Wivenhoe
Wivenhoe is a picturesque town located on the banks of the River Colne, just a few miles southeast of Colchester. It is easy to reach from Colchester City Centre by either rail or by car.
Wivenhoe town is known for its pretty old town, narrow streets, and historic buildings, as well as its lively local pubs and art galleries. Here are some of the best things to do in Wivenhoe:
Explore the historic town centre: Wivenhoe's town center is full of historic buildings, narrow streets, and charming alleyways that are perfect for exploring. Take a stroll down High Street, where you'll find a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, or head to the waterfront to take in the views of the river and surrounding countryside.
Visit local art galleries and museums: Wivenhoe is home to several art galleries, showcasing the work of local artists and craftsmen. The Sentinel Art Gallery, is one of the most popular, with a rotating selection of contemporary art and sculpture. The Nottage Museum is a notable museum worth a visit.
Enjoy a drink at a local pub: Wivenhoe has several traditional pubs that are popular with both locals and visitors. The Rose and Crown is a popular spot for a pint of real ale, while The Black Buoy is known for its live music and cozy atmosphere.
Take a walk along the waterfront: Wivenhoe's waterfront is a beautiful place to take a walk, with views of the river, and surrounding countryside. You can follow the River Colne Walk, a 10-mile trail that passes through Wivenhoe and other nearby towns. You can even walk back to Colchester along the river path.
Take the ferry boat to Rowhedge: Wivenhoe is also home to a foot ferry that runs from the town's waterfront to the nearby village of Rowhedge. The ferry provides a scenic 10-minute crossing of the river and is a great way to explore the local area.
Wivenhoe is a lovely town that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or a nature enthusiast, you're sure to find plenty to do and see in this charming riverside community.
18. Explore Rowhedge Village
Rowhedge is a pretty village located on the banks of the River Colne, just a few miles southeast of Colchester. The village is known for its pretty waterfront, historic buildings, and traditional pubs. Here are some of the best things to do in Rowhedge:
Explore the historic village centre: Rowhedge's village centre is full of historic buildings and charming streets that are perfect for exploring. Take a stroll down High Street - from here you will have great views of River Colne and Wivenhoe from across the water.
Enjoy a pint at a local pub: Rowhedge has a couple of traditional pubs that are popular with both locals and visitors alike. The Anchor Inn and Ye Olde Albion are both popular spots, with a friendly atmosphere and good food.
Explore Fringrinhoe Wick Nature Reserve: Rowhedge is located close Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve. This reserves is home to a variety of plant and animal species, and offer opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.
Take a boat trip along the River Colne: There is a foot ferry that operates between Rowhedge and Wivenhoe Quay .
Rowhedge is a charming village that offers plenty to see and do. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just want to enjoy a pint at a local pub, you're sure to find something to enjoy in this delightful riverside community.
19. Visit Dedham and Constable Country
Dedham is a picturesque village located in the heart of Constable Country in northeast Essex, near Colchester.
Dedham is an idyllic village that epitomises classic English countryside. This charming destination features prominently in many famous landscape paintings by John Constable, who was born nearby in the 18th century.
Dedham offers a variety of attractions and activities for you to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Dedham:
Row Boats on the River: You can rent a boat from The Boatyard between 1st March and 31st October each year. It costs £20 for an rental. From here you can row along the River Stour towards Flatford Mill.
The Boatyard has has a restaurant with outside seating overlooking the river and is an excellent spot to pick up an ice cream
Opposite the Boatyard, on the other side of the river, there is also sometimes someone hiring paddleboards. Many people also bring their own paddleboards, canoes, or kayaks and access the river from this direction.
Boating on the river is a great way to see the countryside from a different perspective, and to enjoy a leisurely day out on the water.
It is also a good spot to paddle in the river itself. The water is quite shallow here and is very popular with families with children.
Take a walk a long the river: Dedham is full of beautiful walking routes, ranging from short strolls to longer hikes. The most famous walk is the Dedham Vale Walk, which follows the River Stour through the picturesque villages of Dedham and Flatford, passing by many of the locations that inspired Constable's paintings.
A footpath follows the river opposite The Boatyard and it is gentle stroll towards Flatford.
Visit the exhibition at Flatford: If you decide to travel towards Flatford, either by boat, paddleboard or on foot, then be sure to view the John Constable exhibition.
Flatford is a small village that was home to John Constable's family, and is now the site of an exhibition dedicated to the artist's life and work. The exhibition is located in a 16th-century cottage that was owned by Constable's father, and features displays on the artist's life, his painting techniques, and the landscapes that inspired his work.
Visit the local pubs and tearooms: Dedham is home to many charming pubs and tearooms, where you can stop for a meal or a drink during your walk or boat trip. The Sun Inn and The Marlborough are popular pubs, as are the Essex Rose Tea Room and The Dedham Centre Tea Room.
Visit a local art gallery: Dedham is home to several galleries that showcase the work of local artists.
The Dedham Art & Craft Centre is a hub of creativity and offers a range of arts and crafts, including ceramics, textiles, and jewellery.
The Munnings Art Museum, located in Castle House, displays the work of Sir Alfred Munnings, a famous equestrian painter who was born and raised in the area. More details can be found here.
Dedham and Constable Country near Colchester is a beautiful region that offers plenty to see and do. Whether you prefer walking, boating, or exploring the local pubs and tearooms, there's something for everyone in this picturesque corner of England.
20. Beth Chatto Gardens
Beth Chatto Gardens is a world-renowned garden near Colchester in Essex, created by the late plantswoman Beth Chatto.
The gardens feature themed areas, including the Gravel Garden, Water Garden, and Scree Garden, which are designed to thrive in challenging conditions.
Visitors can attend workshops and events, visit the plant nursery, enjoy the tearoom, take a guided tour, or simply explore the beautiful gardens.
The plant nursery offers a wide range of plants suited to the local growing conditions, with knowledgeable staff available to offer advice.
The tearoom provides delicious homemade cakes, sandwiches, and light meals, and is located in a converted barn with a relaxed atmosphere.
21. Layer Marney Tower
Layer Marney Tower is a remarkable Tudor palace situated near Colchester in Essex.
Built in the early 16th century, the tower boasts panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is considered one of the finest examples of Tudor architecture in England.
Visitors can explore the Great Hall, the Long Gallery, and the Tudor Kitchen, as well as the surrounding gardens and grounds. The tower is steeped in history, having been home to several notable figures over the centuries, including the Marney family, who were close associates of Henry VIII.
Today, the tower often hosts events and weddings, as well as offering guided tours and educational experiences.
How to Get to Colchester
By Rail
Colchester is about an hour from London by train, with trains leaving London Liverpool Street Station and Stratford. Colchester is on the Norwich line and the Clacton-on-Sea, Walton-on-the-Naze, and Harwich International Port branch lines. For more details on tickets visit the National Rail Website.
Colchester has three stations: Colchester (also known as Colchester North), which is the mainline station, Colchester Town Station and Hythe.
Colchester Station (Colchester North) is about a 15 to 20 minute walk to the town centre, with a potential scenic route taking in the Dutch Quarter or Castle Park and Colchester Castle. If arriving into Colchester North station, you could also follow the Fixing the Link trail to the town centre. Colchester Town is a convenient station to get off at as it is located close to St Botolphs Priory and Colchester’s museums.
By Coach
There are regular National Express coach services linking Colchester Bus Station to and from London Victoria Coach Station and Stansted Airport. For more details visit the National Express website.
By Car
Colchester is easily accessible by car, being located off the A12, and with good links to the M25 and A14. There is good access to Colchester from all parts of the country via the A12, M25 and A14.
There is plenty of parking in the town centre, including St Marys Car Park, which is close to Balkerne Gate, Priory Street, which is convenient for Firstsite and Greyfriars, which is well located for Castle Park and Colchester’s museums. There is also a Park and Ride located off the A12 that includes a frequent bus service to the town centre.
20 Interesting Facts About Colchester
Here are 20 interesting facts about Colchester to help you get to know the city before your visit:
Colchester is Britain's oldest recorded city, with a history that dates back over 2,000 years to before the Roman era.
Colchester was once the capital of Roman Britain, known as both Camulodunum and Colonia Victricensis.
Colchester Castle, built on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius, is the largest surviving Norman keep in Europe.
The Siege of Colchester in 1648 was one of the most significant events of the English Civil War.
The Colchester earthquake of 1884, with a magnitude of 4.6, was one of the most destructive earthquakes ever recorded in the UK.
Colchester is home to the University of Essex, which is known for its pioneering research in social sciences and humanities.
The Colchester Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the area, with over 260 species of animals and birds.
Colchester is famous for its oysters, which are harvested from the nearby Blackwater Estuary.
The Mercury Theatre in Colchester is one of the most important regional theatres in the UK, producing a range of high-quality shows and productions.
Colchester is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the country, including the Roman Circus.
Colchester is home to the first Roman-built and first-recorded Christian church in Britain, the St. Helena's Chapel.
The Colchester Garrison, established in the 19th century, is the oldest and largest army garrison in the country.
The Jumbo water tower in Colchester, built in 1883, was the tallest water tower in the world at the time.
Colchester was the birthplace of the famous 17th-century witch hunter, Matthew Hopkins, also known as the Witchfinder General.
The Colchester Arts Centre, housed in a former church, is a renowned independent music and arts venues.
The Hollytrees Museum in Colchester is a well-preserved Georgian townhouse that offers a glimpse into the lives of the town's well-to-do families in the 18th century.
The Colchester Roman Wall, which was built in the 3rd century AD, is the oldest surviving town wall in Britain.
The Colchester United Football Club, founded in 1937, has a long-standing rivalry with the Ipswich Town Football Club.
The Romans reached Colchester during their first, but unsuccesful, invasion of Britain in 55 BC.
The town has been named as one of the fastest-growing towns in the UK, with a thriving economy and a growing population.
I hope you have found this information about what to see and do in Colchester interesting. If you have visited any of these destinations, I would love to hear your thoughts, please email me and let me know at sarahransomeart@gmail.com.
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