Welcome to the Historic
City of Colchester
Named Britain’s first city or ‘Colonia’ by order of the Roman Emperor Claudius, and before that the capital of the Iron Age Trinovantes Tribe, Colchester’s rich history stretches back more than 2000 years.
Today the historic city centre is ripe for exploring, with nationally important heritage from every era and so much more to discover. Visitors will find a lively destination where the ancient merges seamlessly with the modern; offering family friendly visitor attractions, cutting edge contemporary culture, and great places to eat, drink and shop.
Beyond the city’s Roman Walls the wider Colchester area boasts some of England’s most iconic landscapes; from the Dedham Vale immortalised by Constable to the salt marshes and mud flats of Mersea Island, where
Colchester Native Oysters have been cultivated and consumed since Roman times.
Under an hour from London yet perfectly poised at the gateway to East Anglia, with picturesque villages on its doorstep and only minutes from idyllic coast and countryside, Colchester is the perfect destination for a well-deserved short break, day trip or family holiday in 2025.
We look forward to welcoming you to Colchester - Britain’s First City.
Hollytrees Museum and Colchester Visitor Information Centre
Contents
HISTORIC COLCHESTER
Discover a wealth of heritage treasures and a fascinating story more than 2,000 years in the making.
CULTURAL COLCHESTER
Art, performance, festivals and more.
NOT JUST FOR KIDS
Family friendly attractions where you are never too old to have fun.
EAT AND SHOP
Dedicated follower of fashion or foodie? Discover an eclectic mix of shops and some world-famous culinary delights.
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
You’re never far from a green space in Colchester. Unwind, relax and enjoy nature in the great outdoors.
TOURS AND TRAILS
From long-distance walking routes to guided city tours and self-guided trails, step out and explore the city and surrounding area on foot.
HERITAGE, COAST AND COUNTRYSIDE
From the Dedham Vale to Mersea Island discover the ancient towns and villages and beautiful coast and countryside on the city’s doorstep.
BEYOND COLCHESTER
A host of historic destinations and seaside resorts within easy reach make Colchester an ideal base for exploring the East of England.
WHERE TO VISIT
Your comprehensive list of what to see.
STAY UP, STAY OVER
Colchester has a wide range of accommodation on offer. A small selection can be found here, but head to visitcolchester.com to discover plenty more.
Front & Back Cover Images:
and
help you arrange your visit.
These beautiful images of Colchester have been created by Smart and Gifted, a Company that we have worked with for a number of years. Smart and Gifted produce stunning bespoke images for many locations around the UK. You can find out more about them at www.smartandgifted. co.uk or by contacting keith@ smartandgifted.co.uk.
Colonia, Pallot & Collins Southway Underpass
Colchester Native Osyters
HistoricColchester
Discover a story over 2,000 years in the making...
Aformer capital city with Iron Age roots and a glorious Roman past, history is all around you in Colchester, and every period has left its mark and something for the visitor to explore.
Within Britain’s oldest and longest city walls discover Colchester Castle, Europe’s largest Norman Keep, built on the foundations of a Roman temple destroyed in Queen Boudica’s revolt against Rome and now home to an internationally important museum collection; the atmospheric ruins of St Botolph’s Priory; the medieval lanes of the Dutch Quarter; the house that inspired classic nursery rhyme Twinkle
Twinkle Little Star; Hollytrees Museum with its wonderful collection of toys and Colchester built clocks housed in an elegant Georgian townhouse, and imposing Victorian civic architecture like iconic Colchester landmark ‘Jumbo’.
Other highlights include the Roman Circus Visitor Centre interpreting the only chariot racing track to be discovered in Britain, and further afield the splendid Layer Marney Tower, England’s tallest Tudor Gatehouse and the aweinspiring engineering of the Chappel Viaduct.
Why not time your visit to coincide with one of a diverse array of heritage themed events happening in 2025, from exhibitions at Colchester Castle Museum to festivals taking place in Castle Park.
Colchester Castle
THE CITY OF COLCHESTER
CITY CENTRE HERITAGE HIGHLIGHTS
• Visit Colchester Castle Museum for amazing collections and a new blockbuster exhibition
• Join a Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Tour from the Visitor Information Centre
• Don your doublet for the Colchester Medieval Festival in June, or try on a toga at the Roman Festival in July
• Walk Britain’s oldest and longest Roman City Walls on a self-guided trail
• Discover a day at the races Roman style at the Roman Circus Visitor Centre
• Don’t miss Heritage Open Days in September!
Layer Marney Tower
BEYOND THE CITY CENTRE HIGHLIGHTS
• Layer Marney Tower
• Bourne Mill
• Gosbecks Archeological Park
• Dedham Vale
• East Anglian Railway Museum/ Chappel Viaduct
For more detailed listings of where to visit see pages 27-34
St Botolph’s Priory
Adults
Colchester Cultural
Colchester’s cultural and creative pedigree dates back to the Romans and beyond, after all Camulodunum boasted three theatres, and you can still find evidence of great craftsmanship in the beautiful Iron Age and Roman artifacts on display in Colchester Castle.
The modern city of Colchester is equally blessed, with every type of cultural experience on offer for visitors, however long your stay.
Discover world class contemporary art at Firstsite; wander the rooms of the stunning Georgian building housing The Minories, a free gallery and event space with cafe and gorgeous walled garden, enjoy first rate productions in the elegant surrounds of the Mercury Theatre, an eclectic mix of folk, jazz, comedy and more at Colchester Arts Centre or art cinema at the Curzon.
Our cultural events calendar is flourishing and diverse and makes the most of the City’s unique spaces – from open-air theatre and big-name concerts in Castle Park to intimate classical recitals in ancient churches.
The Colchester Fringe, Roman River and Essex Book Festival are among the many annual events with fantastic line-ups.
And culture doesn’t stop at the city limits of course; for instance, the countryside around Colchester inspired some of Britain’s greatest artists from Constable to Gainsborough and more recently Sir Alfred Munnings.
You can visit museums or attractions dedicated to all three, while Wivenhoe and Mersea Island are home to thriving contemporary artistic communities supported by galleries and open studio events.
THE CITY OF COLCHESTER
For more detailed listings of where to visit see pages 27-34
Mercury Theatre
The Minories
Not just for kids
FAMILY FAVOURITES
• Colchester Zoo
• Colchester Castle Museum
• Hollytrees Museum
• Natural History Museum
• Wyvernwood
• Leisure World
• Colchester Sports Park
• Putt in the Park
• Highwoods Country Park
You are never too old to have fun and in Colchester you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Colchester and the surrounding area has a plethora of top attractions to keep everyone in the family entertained, whether you are 9 or 90, love history, splashing about in the pool, majestic animals or magical woodland adventures.
Top picks in the city centre include Colchester Castle Museum where you can head back over 2,000 years to discover Colchester’s fascinating past through hands on exhibits and events, and the Hollytrees and Natural History Museums.
THE CITY OF
For more detailed listings of where to visit see pages 27-34
Then a short walk through award-winning Castle Park, itself the venue for fantastic family events throughout the year, and you can be aiming for a hole in one at crazy golf, peddling your way across the boating lake or zooming down the flumes at Leisure World, splashing the day away! Outside the city centre take on the Pump Track at state-of-the-art sport and leisure facility Colchester Sports Park, explore the Enchanted Kingdom of Wyvernwood or wander around 60 acres of parkland and lakes at Colchester Zoo, one of Europe’s finest. Home to over 150 species with daily animal displays and feeding opportunities, enjoy a packed day marvelling at everything from African elephants to Komodo Dragons while learning about their care and conservation. Whatever your age you don’t have to look far to find fun in Colchester!
Wyvernwood
Eatthearoundclock
Home to Colchester Native Oysters, the wider Colchester area is a mecca for food lovers!
Agrand event celebrated since 1845 and based on a tradition dating back 600 years, Colchester’s annual Oyster Feast marks the beginning of the Native oyster season. This worldfamous delicacy can be found served fresh from their beds at various restaurants on Mersea Island, where they were first farmed by the Romans, just one of the many culinary delights you will find on a visit.
Colchester’s city centre itself is full of fantastic places to eat and drink. From fabulous street food, local markets, vegetarian and vegan eateries and award-winning restaurants, there is plenty of choice in which to indulge! Alternatively head out into the beautiful surrounding countryside for traditional pubs, quaint tearooms and great restaurants all in gorgeous settings. How about a pint on the quay at Wivenhoe, or under the arches of Chappel Viaduct...
FIND YOUR FOODIE HEAVEN
• Mersea Island - Mersea Island - home not only to Colchester Native Oysters, but a vinyard and brewery too!
• Colchester Farmers Market - find it in the shadow of Jumbo outside the Mercury Theatre on the first Saturday of every month.
• Wilkin & Sons of Tiptree - famous jam makers the world over, indulge in our favourite (also James Bond’s!) Little Scarlet Jam at Wilkin’s teashops in Tiptree and Dedham, or pick up a jar at the Visitor Information Centre to take home.
• Afternoon tea at a swanky hotel or traditional tearoom - we have both!
• Beer Festivals - twice yearly events taking place at the Colchester Arts Centre and the East Anglian Railway Museum at Chappel and Wakes Colne.
• Enjoy a huge choice of street food from every corner of the globe at Colchester’s weekly Charter Market
• Colchester Food and Drink Festival - the region’s largest annual foodie festival taking place annually in June in Castle Park.
Download the InColchester app for city centre shopping & eating offers
Shopyoutilldrop
With specialist independent shops sitting alongside national retailers, you can effortlessly explore the historic lanes of the city whilst indulging in some serious retail therapy.
CITY CENTRE SHOPPING
• High Street
• Culver Square/Red Lion Walk pedestrianised areas
• Crouch St/The Lanes - the best of independent shopping
• Red Lion Yard - independent boutiques and café culture
• Trinity Street - a treasure trove of unique businesses in a historic setting
Fenwick
A breath of fresh air
You’re never far from a green space in Colchester. Unwind, relax and enjoy nature
in the great outdoors.
It only takes a short walk from Colchester’s compact city centre to start discovering some of the beautiful open spaces, parks, and scenic countryside that you can explore on a visit to Colchester.
In the heart of the city the Victorian Castle Park boasts well managed gardens, and multiple historic sites of note and is bordered by The River Colne flowing along its northern edge. Keep tracking the river and the popular Wivenhoe Trail will take you further out into the countryside and the coast.
A little further north than Castle Park lies High Woods Country Park. A wilder affair featuring woodland, meadows, lakes and grassland, whilst
Essex Wildlife Trust manage two extensive and internationally important nature reserves at Fingringhoe and Abberton to the south of the city.
Mersea Island offers coastal walks and sea breezes alongside its famous seafood, fishing, boating community and beaches. Cudmore Grove in the East is the wilder cousin of the more populous West Mersea and recently gained international recognition in the television adaptation of The Essex Serpent.
’Constable Country’ - the Stour Valley and the Dedham Vale - is a short journey via car, bicycle or public transport from the city centre and is a Designated National Landscape, one of only 46 across the whole UK. The subject of many of John Constable’s best known works as well as an inspiration to many other artists such as Gainsborough and Munnings, the landscape remain largely untouched and easily accessible to walkers on waymarked trails.
Head over to the website visitcolchester.com to discover more locations across Colchester Cudmore Grove
KEY LOCATIONS
• Castle Park
• High Woods Country Park
• Mersea Island – Cudmore Grove Country Park
• Abberton Reservoir
• Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve
• Gosbecks Archaeological Park
• Beth Chatto Gardens
High Woods Country Park
Abberton Reservoir
Tours and trails
Head over to the website visitcolchester.com to discover more locations across Colchester
From long-distance walking routes to guided city tours and self-guided trails, step out and explore the city and surrounding area on foot.
Join an expert city guide on an illuminating walk through Colchester’s historic streets, covering the highs and lows of life in the city over the past 2000 years. From its rise to capital of Roman Britain and destruction at the hands of Boudica through to the recent gift of modern city status from Queen Elizabeth II, Colchester’s stories come to life on our regular guided tours.
Tours run from the Colchester Visitor Information Centre located in Hollytrees Museum most Saturdays throughout the year, and there are regular themed tours that take place at other times. Private tours can be booked at a time of your choosing by getting in touch with the team at Visit Colchester.
All Colchester’s official guided tours are run by experienced and fully qualified guides meaning your tour is guaranteed to be well paced, entertaining and most importantly factually accurate!
If going it alone is more your style, we have plenty of self-led trails on offer too. Our most popular include the Siege of Colchester, Gates
of the Roman Wall, and the Hidden Colchester Tour. These are all available to download for free at visitcolchester.com, or copies can be purchased from the Visitor Information Centre if you prefer a paper version.
Heading out of the city centre provides an opportunity to explore Colchester’s stunning coast and countryside. Self-guided walking routes available include the popular Wivenhoe Trail along the River Colne, numerous scenic trails across the Dedham Vale and Constable Country, and coastal strolls on the windswept beaches of Mersea Island. Once again, the friendly staff at Visitor Information Centre can provide you with recommendations, downloads, and paper copies where available.
COASTAL AND RIVER WALKS
Download free Colchester area coastal and river walks via the Go Jauntly App. Download via Apple or Google Play stores. Find out more at gojauntly.com
WALKS TO ENJOY
• From Camulodunum to Colchester
• The Siege of Colchester
• Roman and Medieval Gates
• Hidden Colchester
• The Essex Way
• Stour Valley Path
• Roman Colchester Trivia Trail
• The Colchester Orbital
• The Wivenhoe Trail
• Colne Valley Path
Dedham
From coast to country, there is so much to explore across the city of Colchester. Discover places of beautiful contrasts, with bags of unique character.
MERSEA ISLAND
Mersea Island, known for its world-famous Colchester oysters, offers visitors stunning golden sand beaches and iconic pastel beach huts. Whether crabbing in the marina, watching sailboats on the estuary, or enjoying the peaceful sea breeze, it’s the perfect place to relax. The island is home to Cudmore Grove Country Park, ideal for wildlife spotting and picnics year-round.
Accessible by car or public transport, Mersea is a haven for outdoor activities. Explore by foot,
bike, or boat, with plenty of scenic paths and bird-watching opportunities. Visit local seafood restaurants or enjoy fresh produce from the Mersea Island Vineyard.
Choose from the lively West Mersea, with shops and pubs, or the rural East Mersea, offering wild beaches and open spaces. Visit the Mersea Island Museum, explore the Mersea Barrow, or discover the area’s fascinating Roman history. Don’t forget to check tide times before crossing the Strood Causeway.
Mersea Island
THE CITY OF
and Countryside Heritage, Coast
COPFORD, LAYER MARNEY AND TIPTREE
There’s lots to discover as you travel southwest out of Colchester on the old Maldon Road the B1022. The village of Copford is home to a true hidden gem, St Michael of All Angels Church, with its stunning medieval wall paintings depicting a host of angels and the zodiac rendered in a rare Byzantium style. Further down the road discover the tallest Tudor gatehouse in Britain, the magnificent Layer Marney Tower built in 1520 in a style later used at Hampton Court. Finally, conclude your journey still within the city boundaries at the famous teashop and museum at Wilkin & Sons, Tiptree, Britain’s, maybe the world’s, most famous jam makers!
Copford Church wall paintings
Chapel Viaduct
WIVENHOE
Follow the riverside Town-to-Sea trail from Colchester to visit Wivenhoe. Lose yourself in the town’s historic lanes and discover independent galleries and shops plus the unique Nottage Museum. If the weather is on your side grab a pint and a portion of chips and enjoy the Quay of an evening! If you don’t fancy the walk, it’s a mere 15 minutes by bike (or just five minutes by train!) perfectly located to explore for a change of pace whilst visiting Colchester.
COLNE VALLEY
Head west out of Colchester into the scenic and beautiful Colne Valley. Meander along country lanes and picturesque villages, taking in traditional East Anglian timber framed architecture. Make sure you look out for the magnificent Chappel Viaduct, which dominates the local skyline for miles. As the sun pours through its majestic arches, casting dramatic shadows across the rural landscape, it forms a jaw-dropping photo opportunity.
CONSTABLE COUNTRY AND THE DEDHAM VALE
North-East of Colchester discover Constable Country straddling the border between Essex and Suffolk. Now designated a National Landscape this beautiful countryside was inspiration to several great English painters. Hire a rowing boat for a trip down the Stour, or if you’re feeling lazy jump in the ‘Trusty’, an electric pleasure boat plying its trade during the summer months between Constable’s birthplace at Flatford Mill
(now a National Trust site with tearoom) and picturesque Dedham.
Please note, roads between these small villages can get very busy at peak times so if boating’s not your thing we recommend a peaceful amble by foot from Dedham to Flatford, or a hop on a bike from Manningtree Station, to best appreciate the quintessential rural English countryside that inspired Constable, Gainsborough and Sir Alfred Munnings – whose home and studio in Dedham is now a museum.
Wivenhoe
Dedham High Street
Beyond Colchester
Colchester makes an ideal base for touring the surrounding areas
BURY ST EDMUNDS
Discover medieval architecture, elegant Georgian buildings including the Grade 1 Listed Theatre Royal, an imposing cathedral and the beautiful Abbey Gardens, all within a compact town centre. Visit in December for the Christmas market for festive treats. Magnificent stately home Ickworth House, once seat of the Marquis of Bristol and now owned by the National Trust, can be found on the outskirts of town.
IPSWICH
Suffolk’s ancient county town, situated on the river Orwell, has a thriving waterfront offering the visitor events, restaurants and boat trips out to the coast. One of several free museums in the town, Christchurch Mansion is home to one of the largest and most important collections of paintings by world renowned Suffolk artists John Constable and Thomas Gainsborough.
SUFFOLK COAST
A short drive from the city centre of Colchester, you’ll find the Suffolk Heritage Coast. This stunning coastline makes a great day out for the whole family. Head to Aldburgh or Southwold to sample fresh seafood, Adnams ale, boutique shopping and fill your lungs with sea air!
ESSEX SUNSHINE COAST
Spanning several seaside towns, the Essex Sunshine Coast offers a great day by the sea, whatever your taste. From historic ports to contemporary marinas; pristine beaches to wild fossil hunting; refined coastal walks to traditional seaside entertainment, it can all be found along this stretch of coastline.
THE CITY OF COLCHESTER
SAFFRON WALDEN
Discover Saffron Walden, a buzzing market town in Essex. Take a leisurely stroll around and take in the surviving medieval buildings and rural charm. Visit the famous Audley End House and Gardens, managed by English Heritage.
MALDON
Smell the salt from the salt marshes, listen to sailboats masts clinking, or let the kids splash around at the Promenade and Splash Park. Historic inns, churches and fine medieval buildings are a short walk up Market Hill.
HARWICH
Historically one of Britain’s most important port towns it was from here (not Plymouth!) in 1620 that the Mayflower initially set out on its famous voyage. Evidence of Harwich’s military history can be seen at heritage sites.
LAVENHAM AND LONG MELFORD
Two of the best-preserved medieval wool towns in Britain. Admire the fascinating timber framed architecture that hosts tearooms, pubs and bijoux businesses. Lavenham also doubles up as the birthplace of Harry Potter, Godric’s Hollow in the hugely successful Harry Potter franchise.
FURTHER AFIELD...
Colchester is the gateway to East Anglia and the beautiful historic cities of Cambridge and Norwich are within easy reach. We recommend taking the scenic route to Cambridge via the old coaching road, which takes you through quintessentially East Anglian villages full of half-timbered cottages. Norwich is only an hour away by train which takes you into the heart of the city. Last but certainly not least, an outing to London with all its many attractions is again just an hour away.
to visitWhere
ABBERTON RESERVOIR
Visitor Centre, Church Road, Layer-de-laHaye, Colchester, Essex, CO2 0EU 01206 738172
essexwt.org.uk/nature-reserves/abberton Conservation centre run by the Essex Wildlife Trust, at a site of international importance for winter wildfowl. Nesting cormorants, common terns and nightingales. Bird hides and nature trails including the Brambly Hedge Sculpture Trail. Shop selling gifts, optics and wildlife books.
AIRHOP TRAMPOLINE PARK
21 Mason Road, Cowdray Centre, Cowdray Ave, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1BX 0330 223 3333 airhop.co.uk
Over 100 interconnecting trampolines create a 20,000 square foot bounce space which includes an Open Jump arena, Slam-dunk, Big Bag, dodgeball court and the first wall trampoline in the U.K.
AQUA SPRINGS
Cowdray Avenue, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1YH 01206 282010 aqua-springs.co.uk
The ultimate health spa experience. Providing you with a complete environment of rest and relaxation, to soothe, revitalise and transform. Try the range of beauty and relaxation treatments.
BETH CHATTO GARDENS
Elmstead Market, Colchester, Essex, CO7 7DB 01206 822007 bethchatto.co.uk
7.5 acres of Gravel, Water, Woodland, Reservoir and Scree Gardens. A large modern tea room, plant nursery and gift shop.
BOURNE MILL
Bourne Road, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8RT 01376 561305 nationaltrust.org.uk/bourne-mill
A National Trust property, the mill was originally built as a fishing lodge in 1591 and features stepped ‘Dutch’ gables. Set in tranquil grounds with plenty of wildlife and a walking trail, the mill also features a working waterwheel.
BOXTED AIRFIELD MUSEUM
Langham Lane, Langham, Essex, CO4 5NW 07503952354 boxted-airfield.com
Discover how a WW2 airfield and 3000 military personnel affected a small village. Visit the Royal Observer Corps exhibit, the uniforms collection and the Marauder collection, featuring the tail section of a Marauder bomber and a recreated cockpit display. Private visits available on request.
CASTLE PARK
High Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1TJ 01206 282962
colchester.gov.uk/castle-park
The jewel in Colchester’s crown – an award-winning oasis of horticultural splendour boasting a children’s play area, boating lake, cafe and adventure golf.
CHAPPEL GALLERIES
15 Colchester Road, Chappel, Essex, CO6 2DE 01206 240326 chappelgalleries.co.uk
Set in the picturesque Colne Valley, Chappel Galleries overlooks the 32 arch Victorian Chappel Viaduct. The Gallery displays and sells work by professional artists who are either from or have a connection with the region.
Beth Chatto Gardens
Boxted Airfield Museum
CHARTER HALL
Colchester Leisure World, Cowdray Avenue, Colchester, CO1 1YH 01206 506905
colchester-events.co.uk
A multipurpose events venue in the heart of Colchester, featuring live music, comedy, sports and special events.
COGGESHALL GRANGE BARN
The National Trust, Grange Hill,Coggeshall, Essex, CO6 1RE 01376 561305
nationaltrust.org.uk/grange-barn
One of Europe’s oldest timber-framed buildings, Grange Barn stands as a reminder of the once powerful Coggeshall Abbey. The pillars of this 13th century building soar up to a cathedral-like roof.
COLCHESTER ARTS CENTRE
Church Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1NF 01206 500900
colchesterartscentre.com
The home of live music, comedy, theatre, poetry, dance, children’s shows, clubs, gigs and more.
COLCHESTER CASTLE MUSEUM
Castle Park, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1TJ 01206 282939
colchester.cimuseums.org.uk
Colchester Castle is Europe’s largest Norman Keep and is one of the region’s leading heritage attractions. With a unique mix of fascinating displays and the latest technology, there is lots for your family to explore and discover.
COLCHESTER SPORTS PARK
Northern Gateway, Cuckoo Farm, Colchester, Essex, CO4 5YX 01206 282000 colchestersportspark.co.uk
A 76 acre site providing indoor and outdoor sports and leisure facilities. Perfect for individuals, groups and schools. Facilities include a multi-use sports centre, 1 mile floodlit cycle track, all-weather and grass pitches, fitness suite and archery range. On site Paddy & Scotts cafe.
COLCHESTER UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB
JobServe Community Stadium, United Way, Colchester, Essex, CO4 5UP 01206 755100 cu-fc.com
Colchester United Football Club was formed in 1937. They currently play in League 2. The stadium hosts numerous events and is home to the official Colchester United shop.
COLCHESTER ZOO
Maldon Road, Stanway, Colchester, Essex, CO3 0SL 01206 331292 colchester-zoo.com
Discover over 150 species in 60 acres of beautiful parkland and lakes. Essex’s No.1 outdoor activity according to Tripadvisor travellers!
COLNE VALLEY RAILWAY
Yeldham Road, Castle Hedingham, Halstead, Essex, CO9 3DZ 01787 461174 colnevalleyrailway.co.uk
One-mile length of line with re-located buildings and a large collection of heritage rolling stock, steam and diesel locomotives, miniature and model railways and a Plotlands Railway Cottage. Special events including Steam with Santa and Driving Experiences.
Colchester Arts Centre
Colchester Zoo
CUDMORE GROVE COUNTRY PARK
Bromans Lane, East Mersea, Colchester, Essex, CO5 8UE
0345 6037624
explore-essex.com
A nature reserve with over 102 acres of unique coastal landscape, habitat and heritage on Mersea Island. The park includes a coastal-themed play area. Perfect for picnics and great views.
CURZON CINEMA
Roman House, 19 Queen Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 2PH 01233 555644
curzon.com
Curzon Colchester is an independent arthouse cinema with three screens, showing the best of quality mainstream including family films, independent gems and events. Two café bars and a roof terrace.
DEDHAM ART AND CRAFT CENTRE
High Street, Dedham, Essex, CO7 6AD 01206 322666
dedhamartandcraftcentre.co.uk
This beautifully converted church showcases the work of over 60 creative artisans and the inspired buying skills of specialist retailers. Tea room offering favourite tea room fayre.
EAST ANGLIAN RAILWAY MUSEUM
Chappel Station, Wakes Colne, Essex, CO6 2DS 01206 242524
earm.co.uk
A living museum situated in the beautiful Colne Valley. Explore the wide collection of steam trains, diesel locomotives and vintage carriages, as well as the Victorian buildings and working signal boxes.
FINGRINGHOE WICK NATURE DISCOVERY PARK
South Green Road, Fingringhoe, Colchester, Essex, CO5 7DN
01206 729678
essexwt.org.uk/nature-reserves/fingringhoe Nature reserve with over 200 acres of mixed habitat on the Colne Estuary. Nature trails, wheelchair access, bird hides, gift shop and visitor centre. Friendly atmosphere. Café and refreshments available.
FIRSTSITE
Lewis Gardens, High Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1JH 01206 713700
www.firstsite.uk
A unique gallery in the heart of Colchester, offering a constantly changing programme of exhibitions, film screenings, performances, activities and events for young and old.
FLATFORD
Flatford, East Bergholt, Suffolk, CO7 6UL 01206 297201
nationaltrust.org.uk/flatford
Walk in John Constable’s footsteps to discover the pretty hamlet of Flatford, including Bridge Cottage and Flatford Mill. Visit the Constable exhibition, then sit by the river and enjoy a freshly baked cake at the National Trust tea room and find a gift in the shop.
FOSSIL FALLS CRAZY GOLF
Bakers Lane, Colchester, Essex, CO3 4AU 01206 843333
lexdenwoodgolf.club/golf/crazy-golf/ Magical landscapes, life-sized dinosaurs and super challenging golf on our family crazy golf course at Lexden Wood. Packed with waterfalls and caves, it’s great fun for all the family. Restaurant with pizza oven. Kids party packages available.
Dedham Vale
Flatford
GO BANANAS!
9&10 Mason Road, Cowdray Centre, Cowdray Ave, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1BX 01206 761762 go-bananas.co.uk
Go Bananas play centre has over 20 years of experience in keeping the kids entertained! Tiny Town is for those 4 years and under. For 5-12 year olds there is a three level Aztec Adventure frame.
Go Bananas offers a wide variety of inclusive children’s parties, workshops, Autism and SEN sessions and parties for adults too!
GOSBECKS ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK
Gosbecks Rd, Colchester, Essex, CO3 4RN 01206 282920
The Archaeological Park is one of the most significant Iron Age and Roman sites in the country. Enjoy a walk and discover the highlights of the site with the interpretation boards around the Park.
GREEN ISLAND GARDENS
Park Road, Ardleigh, Colchester, Essex, CO7 7SP
01206 230455
greenislandgardens.co.uk
20 acres of professionally designed gardens within woodland destroyed by the 1987 hurricane. Now a plantsman’s paradise full of unusual plants for all-year round colour.
HEADGATE THEATRE
14 Chapel Street North, Colchester, Essex, CO2 7AT 01206 366000 headgatetheatre.co.uk
The home of amateur theatre in Colchester. Hosting a variety of productions throughout the year, from classic and modern drama to musical theatre and stand-up comedy nights.
HIGH WOODS COUNTRY PARK
Visitor Centre, Turner Road, Colchester, Essex, CO4 5JR
01206 282222
colchester.gov.uk/countrypark
370 acres of woodland, grassland and wetland with path network, including circular walks and easy access trail. Visitor Centre and three play areas for children of all ages.
HOLLYTREES MUSEUM
Castle Park, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1UG
01206 282920
colchester.cimuseums.org.uk
Three centuries of fascinating toys, domestic items and clocks displayed in an attractive Georgian town house set in Castle Park. Home to the VisitColchester Information Centre, the place to buy gifts and souvenirs.
HOLY TRINITY CHURCH
Trinity Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1JN
Colchester’s only surviving Saxon building featuring an arrowhead (triangle arches) doorway in the tower and re-used Roman bricks. The churchyard contains the burial place of William Gilberd, discoverer of electromagnetism and Physician to Queen Elizabeth I.
JUMBO WATER TOWER
Balkerne Passage, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1PT jumbo.org.uk
Grade II listed Victorian Water Tower soaring over 40m in the air. Named after London Zoo’s Jumbo elephant, this much-loved landmark is topped with an elephant shaped weathervane.
High Woods Country Park
Hollytrees Museum
LAKESIDE THEATRE
University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, Essex, CO4 3SQ 01206 873261 lakesidetheatre.org.uk
Lakeside Theatre is a hidden gem offering live theatre, children’s shows, contemporary music, live comedy, open mic nights and much more. Enjoy refreshments at the onsite café.
LAYER MARNEY TOWER
Layer Marney, Colchester, Essex, CO5 9US 01206 330784
layermarneytower.co.uk
Magnificent Tudor building with the tallest Gatehouse in Britain and 16th-century Italianate terracotta. Climb the tower, visit the gardens, outbuildings, dolls house, church and farm animals. Café and shop.
LEISURE WORLD COLCHESTER
Cowdray Avenue, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1YH 01206 282000
colchesterleisureworld.co.uk
Leisure World Colchester is one of East Anglia’s largest sports, leisure, recreation and entertainment venues and offers year-round fun for all the family. The leisure pool includes an outside river rapids ride, water cannons and flumes.
MARKSHALL ESTATE
Marks Hall, Coggeshall, Essex, CO6 1TG 01376 563796 markshall.org.uk
Discover trees from across the globe in this worldclass arboretum. Relax in the walled garden or explore the ancient woodland on one of the many walks through the historic landscape.
MERCURY THEATRE
Balkerne Gate, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1PT 01206 573948 mercurytheatre.co.uk
A highly respected regional theatre, presenting a broad mix of classic plays and new writing, as well as working extensively within the local community. Cafe Bar with large outdoor piazza.
MERSEA BOATING LAKE
Rewsalls Lane, East Mersea, Essex, CO5 8SX 07904196238 merseaboatinglake.com
A 6 acre man-made salt water lake, located by the sea with private beach access. A family friendly lake offering water sports activities for all ages and abilities, including paddle boarding, kayaking and sailing.
MERSEA ISLAND MUSEUM
12 High Street, West Mersea, Colchester, Essex, CO5 8QD 01206 385191 merseamuseum.org.uk
Exhibits of Mersea’s social and natural history, archaeology and fishing industry, including a fisherman’s cottage display. Special exhibitions and gift shop.
MERSEA ISLAND VINEYARD
Rewsalls Lane, East Mersea, Colchester, Essex, CO5 8SX 01206 384698 merseaislandvineyard.co.uk
Enjoy wine tasting on the Island or just relax with a glass of wine or coffee and cake at The Cork ‘n’ Cap café. Also home to Mersea Island Brewery.
Mercury Theatre
Leisure World
THE MINORIES
74 High Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1UE theminories.org
Art Gallery housed in a historic Georgian building with lovely walled garden and café.
THE MUNNINGS ART MUSEUM
Castle Hill, Dedham, Colchester, Essex, CO7 6AZ 01206 322127 munningsmuseum.org.uk
Explore the home and studios of Sir Alfred Munnings, PPRA and enjoy over 200 paintings, drawings and sculptures from his collection which are displayed throughout his house.
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
High Street, Colchester, CO1 1DN 01206 282941
colchester.cimuseums.org.uk
Housed in the former All Saints Church, discover more about local wildlife habitats, biodiversity and climate change at this family friendly museum. Free entry.
THE NOTTAGE MUSEUM
Nottage Maritime Institute, The Quay, Wivenhoe, Colchester, Essex, CO7 9BX 01206 824142 nottage.org.uk
Local Maritime Museum with a fine collection of pictures and artefacts and an extensive library relating to the maritime history of the River Colne and Wivenhoe. Open to the public at weekends during the summer months and by appointment at other times. See the website for details.
ODEON CINEMA
Head Street, Colchester, CO1 1NH 0333 0144 501 odeon.co.uk
The ODEON Colchester is a fully digital eight screen cinema showing RealD 3D. Treat yourself at the Costa Coffee shop or a Ben and Jerry’s at the ice-cream parlour.
PAYCOCKE’S HOUSE & GARDEN
25 West Street, Coggeshall, Essex, CO6 1NS 01376 561305
nationaltrust.org.uk/paycockes-house-and-garden
Built in the 16th century, this attractive half-timbered merchant house is a grand example of wealth generated by the cloth trade. Cosy tea-room and bookshop.
PUTT IN THE PARK
St Peter’s Street, Lower Castle Park, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1HL 01206 579499 puttinthepark.com
Roman themed minigolf course and clubhouse cafe, set in the beautiful and historic surroundings of Castle Park.
ROMAN CHURCH
Southway, Colchester, Essex, CO3 3BU 01206 282920
Dating from the 4th century, these foundations are thought to be those of the earliest known Christian church in Britain.
ROMAN CIRCUS VISITOR CENTRE
Roman Circus Walk, Colchester, Essex, CO2 7GZ 01206 501785
catuk.org/romancircus
Discovered in 2005, this former chariot racing track dates from around 125 AD and is the only known Roman chariot racing track in Britain. Spectacular in nature, it would have provided seating for 8000 spectators.
Putt in the Park
ROMAN THEATRE
Maidenburgh Street, Colchester, Essex CO1 1TT 01206 282920
The remains of the Roman theatre in the city centre can best be seen in Maidenburgh Street in the Dutch Quarter. Look for the darker paving in the road showing the outline of the theatre’s walls.
ROMAN WALL/BALKERNE GATE
Balkerne Passage, Colchester, Essex, CO3 3AA 01206 282920
Colchester’s Roman Wall is the oldest and longest surviving city wall in Britain. It was built to defend Colchester after the Boudican rebellion in AD60 and includes Balkerne Gate, the original main entrance to the city.
ST BOTOLPH’S PRIORY
Priory Street, Colchester, Essex CO2 7EE 01206 282920
english-heritage.org. uk/visit/places/ colchester-st-botolphs-priory
One of the first English Augustinian priories founded about 1100. Substantial and picturesque ruined remains survive today under the care of English Heritage.
ST JOHN’S ABBEY GATE
St John’s Green, Colchester, Essex, CO2 7EZ 01206 282920
english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ places/st-johns-abbey-gate/
This elaborate pinnacled 15th-century gatehouse in East Anglian flushwork, is the sole survivor of the Benedictine abbey of St John. It was stormed by Parliamentarian soldiers during the Civil War siege of 1648.
ST MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS CHURCH, COPFORD
Off Aldcar Road, Copford Green, Colchester, Essex, CO6 1DG 01206 211494 copfordchurch.org.uk
Celebrated 12th-century apsidal church with magnificent medieval wall frescoes cleaned and restored in the 20th century. The paintings show a strong Byzantine influence in content and design and were uncovered from behind a coating of 16th-century whitewash. Guided tours by prearrangement.
THE SENTINEL GALLERY
Chapel Road, Wivenhoe, Colchester, Essex, CO7 9DX 07769945793 thesentinelgallery.co.uk
An art gallery located in the heart of Wivenhoe, hosting regularly changing exhibitions of local artists. The gallery is available for hire to local artists and art groups.
WILKIN AND SONS LTD TIPTREE
Wilkins Jam Factory, Factory Hill, Tiptree, Colchester, Essex, CO5 0RF 01621 815407 tiptree.com
Tiptree is the home of the Wilkin family, where from 1885 the first Tiptree jam was made. Delightful museum, tea room and gift shop.
WYVERNWOOD
Wyvernwood
St Osyth Road, Alresford, Colchester, Essex, CO7 8AP 01206 700675 wyvernwood.co.uk
Discover the Enchanted Lost Kingdom of Wyvernwood. Step through to another world and explore the adventure park inhabited by fabulous fairies, fierce dragons and wise wizards. Sand play, tunnels, jumping pillow, karts and castle climbing frame are all part of the fun.
St Botolph’s Priory
£125-£600
High Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1UG 01206 575913
greyfriarscolchester.co.uk
reservations@greyfriarscolchester.co.uk
An exquisite Michelin recommended luxury hotel with superb restaurant, afternoon tea parlour and lounge bars. Beautifully appointed for the customer’s comfort, GreyFriars offers 5* service, comfortable lounges, cosy Club rooms, larger Classic rooms and spacious luxury suites. It’s a destination in its own right, the place to stay when visiting Colchester, Constable Country and East Anglia.
THE NORTH HILL HOTEL
51 North Hill, Colchester, Essex CO1 1PY 01206 574001
northhillhotel.com
info@northhillhotel.com
A modern city centre hotel in a Georgian setting. Rooms have tea and coffee making facilities, free WiFi, DVD and freeview TV. Relax in our wine bar, the place to celebrate with friends and family for drinks.
London Road, Marks Tey, Colchester, Essex, CO6 1DU 01206 210001
www.marriott.com/stnde info@marksteyhotel.co.uk
This newly renovated Hotel is a pet friendly, deluxe, 4-star property offering 131 modern rooms, along with a chic new restaurant, stunning orangery and elegant bar and lounge. Ideal for families, the hotel features room types that can sleep up to 4 guests, a Health Club including a gym, indoor pool, steam room and sauna and plenty of parking.
Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, Essex CO4 3FA 01206 863666
wivenhoehouse.co.uk
info@wivenhoehouse.co.uk
Wivenhoe House boasts a fantastic location on the Essex, Suffolk border with plenty to explore in the area. The hotel’s stylish brasserie is open every day for lunch, dinner or a delicious afternoon tea. With luxury bedrooms for families, to contemporary rooms ideal for a couple’s getaway, it’s the perfect destination for your next break. Large Hotel of the Year in East of England Tourism award.
From £75 per room per night
DELTA HOTELS BY MARRIOTT COLCHESTER
From £70 per room per night room only.
THE NOOK
£360-£480 per unit per week
48 Irvine Road, Colchester, Essex CO3 3TS 01206 503677 07837 301869
thecolchesternook@gmail.com
A cosy 4* self-catering property, 15 minutes walk from Colchester city centre. Perfect for leisure or business. We can accommodate one baby or toddler in a cot. No smoking. Quiet secluded garden with bistro style table and chairs.
WAKES HALL LODGES
£810-£1460 per unit per week
Colchester Road, Wakes Colne, Essex, CO6 2DY
01206 563222
wakeslodges.co.uk
info@wakeslodges.co.uk
Take a break in one of our luxury self-catering lodges surrounded by a private 500-acre estate in the tranquil beauty of the Colne Valley, complete with your own hot tub enjoying views of the delightful countryside. Treat yourself to a glass of something, soothe your muscles, lay back and relax in style.
RYE FARM
£462-£728 per unit per week
Rye Lane, Layer-de-la-Haye, Colchester, Essex CO2 0JL 01206 734350 07479 940940
ryefarm.org.uk
rosie@ryefarm.org.uk
Quiet rural location, ideal for a relaxing break. Four comfortable, fully equipped self-catering apartments. Adjacent to Abberton Reservoir and within easy reach of Colchester City, Colchester Zoo, Mersea Island and Beth Chatto Gardens. Flexible change over days and families welcome.
WALDEGRAVES HOLIDAY PARK
Bellamy Gold, AA 5 Pennant Caravan and Camping
Luxury holiday homes, touring and camping.
Waldegraves Lane, West Mersea, Colchester, Essex, CO5 8SE 01206 382898 waldegraves.co.uk holidays@waldegraves.co.uk
Escape to the coast and enjoy a break on the beautiful Mersea Island. There’s so much to do on park, with great facilities, including an outdoor heated pool, restaurant, fishing lakes, bike hire, crazy golf, pitch & putt, driving range and even a FootGolf course! Day visitors welcome. E.V charging available.
Getting to Colchester is easy...
BY RAIL
There are frequent direct services between Colchester and London Liverpool Street (50 minutes), Norwich (one hour), and the east coast resorts of Clacton, Frinton and Walton (30 minutes) and Harwich International Port (30 minutes)
NATIONAL EXPRESS COACH SERVICES
There are daily services linking Colchester to all principal towns and cities in Britain. The Visit Colchester Information Centre has timetable details.
BY ROAD
There is good access to Colchester from all parts of the country via the A12, M25 and A14. A 1000-space Park and Ride facility is located at junction 28 of the A12 and is served by a frequent and direct service into the city centre. For more details on planning your journey, please contact the Visit Colchester Information Centre or the AA.
BY SEA
Colchester is only 30 minutes from Harwich International Port via the A120. A passenger service from Harwich is operated by Stena Line to and from the Hook of Holland.
BY AIR
Stansted (London’s third international airport) is just 50 minutes away from Colchester by road via the A12/A120.
BY CYCLE
Route 1 of the National Cycle Network runs through Colchester. Route 1 goes from Dover to Inverness, but there is a spur to Harwich International Port from Colchester city centre.
USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS:
Stansted Airport information and enquiries desk. Tel: 0808 1697 031
National Rail Enquiry Service for information about rail services nationally. Tel: 03457 484950
National Express Coach services enquiry line. Tel: 0871 781 8181 nationalexpress.com
For enquiries about sailing to the Netherlands from Harwich call Stena Line. Tel: 03447 707070 stenaline.co.uk
TRAFFIC INFORMATION
Traffic information updates are given frequently on the following radio stations: Heart Essex 96.1fm, BBC Radio Essex 103.5fm and BBC Suffolk 103.9fm.
PARKING IN COLCHESTER
It’s easy to park in Colchester, just follow the signs showing availability. With over 4000 car park spaces across the city centre and easy main road access, there’ll be sites and deals to suit you.
Great value awaits in car parks in the heart of the city, near to the shops, museums, Colchester Castle, Castle Park and more, just a short walk away. The nearest car park to Colchester Castle and the Visit Colchester Information Centre is the award-winning Priory Street.
Choose from our great value parking deals at locations including St. Mary’s, just three minutes’ stroll from the High Street, or stay all day at Butt Road or Napier Road.
Pay for parking with the easy to use, contactless MiPermit payment system, whether you’re new to Colchester or a returning visitor. Use the secure, cashless app, online or phone payment system and access our best parking deals which are exclusive to MiPermit users too. colchester.gov.
uk/parking
PARK & RIDE
Park your car and enjoy a relaxed journey into the city with Colchester’s Park and Ride Service www.travelessex.co.uk/park-and-ride/ colchester-park-and-ride
We hope that this brochure has tempted you to spend a few days in Colchester. These pages will help you with your travel plans.
This is a map of Colchester city centre (shaded in grey). For information on public transport and parking including Colchester Park and Ride go to visitcolchester.com/plan-yourvisit/travel-information or call the Visitor Information Centre on 01206 282920.
The Visitor Information Centre can also help with guided tours and heritage trails to help you make the most of your visit.
