Skip page header and navigation

Why we love Colchester

It may be Britain’s oldest city, but Colchester never stands still in the face of time. A perfect blend of nature and urban living, this Essex city was made to be explored.

Uncover more than 2000 years of history, from the Romans through to the Victorians. Step into the past at Europe’s largest Norman Keep, explore its prisons and vaults and discover its hidden secrets. Or choose a nature-fuelled adventure in Dedham Vale for scenic cycling routes or foraging walks. There’s plenty of street cuisine and fine dining to sample too, alongside an eclectic mix of bars and pubs.

Whether its venturing out to the nearby Mersea Island to be immersed in nature, or surrounding yourself with contemporary art, discover a city that is bursting with cultural highlights and things to do.

Things to do in Colchester

Nestled in the grounds of Castle Park, explore over 300 years of history through exhibitions and displays.

Uncover history at Hollytrees Museum

Rodger Tamblyn Photography

People relaxing in the grounds in from of Hollytrees Museum
Hollytrees Museum

An area of outstanding natural beauty north of Colchester, discover the landscape which inspired artist John Constable.

Dive into nature at Dedham Vale AONB

VisitEssex

Family in a rowing boat on the river at Dedham Vale
Dedham Vale AONB

Pit your wits against the wall at this bouldering centre filled with over 150 climbs to attempt.

Rock on at Colchester Climbing Project

Colchester Climbing Project

Climbers on the walls
Colchester Climbing Project

Explore parklands covering more than 11 hectares and home to annual events including Colchester Food and Drinks Festival and Oktoberfest celebrations.

Visit Colchester’s Castle Park

Indre @Colchesterstreets

Cherry Blossom in Castle Park, Colchester
Colchester Castle Park

Nestled in the grounds of Castle Park, explore over 300 years of history through exhibitions and displays.

Uncover history at Hollytrees Museum

Rodger Tamblyn Photography

People relaxing in the grounds in from of Hollytrees Museum
Hollytrees Museum

An area of outstanding natural beauty north of Colchester, discover the landscape which inspired artist John Constable.

Dive into nature at Dedham Vale AONB

VisitEssex

Family in a rowing boat on the river at Dedham Vale
Dedham Vale AONB

Pit your wits against the wall at this bouldering centre filled with over 150 climbs to attempt.

Rock on at Colchester Climbing Project

Colchester Climbing Project

Climbers on the walls
Colchester Climbing Project

Explore parklands covering more than 11 hectares and home to annual events including Colchester Food and Drinks Festival and Oktoberfest celebrations.

Visit Colchester’s Castle Park

Indre @Colchesterstreets

Cherry Blossom in Castle Park, Colchester
Colchester Castle Park

Places to stay in Colchester

City Centre

Colchester’s centre is where you’ll uncover its rich history and heritage, alongside an exciting nightlife scene. Stay in modern hotels to self-catering options as you discover the city’s cultural gems.

Suburbs

Surrounded by flourishing nature, a stay in Colchester’s countryside will lead you to country houses, spas, boutique hotels and camping and glamping options. Look to the Colne Valley for breath-taking scenery and outdoor activities.

Mersea Island

A coastal stay at Essex’s Mersea Island, just a 9-mile (14.5km) journey south-east from Colchester, offers accommodation to suit any budget. Pitch up a tent, or take to the many B&Bs across the island.

Explore nearby

An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

VisitBritain/Hazel Parreno

Picadilly Circus underground station

The city of Cambridge is a hotbed of history, architecture and innovation.

Shutterstock/Pajor Pawel

View of college in Cambridge with people punting on River

From ice-cream parlours to sea food festivals, the ‘Garden of England’ is meant for discovery.

VisitBritain/Dipyourtoesin

Kent

Man and woman walking between vines at a vineyard

Getting to Colchester

Colchester is easily accessible by road, rail and air. Regular trains run from London Liverpool Street and take around 1 hour. National Express coaches run from London Victoria Coach Station and Stansted Airport.

Stansted Airport is 50 minutes from Colchester by road and there are regular coach transfer services between Marks Tey train station and Stansted Airport. 

Getting around

Colchester is best explored on foot, although there are regular bus services and a park and ride scheme. If you choose to explore its neighbouring Mersea Island, bus services run from the high street in Colchester to West Mersea. 

By bus

First Bus operate regular services around Colchester, as well as to surrounding towns and villages across Essex.

By bike

The city has multiple National Cycle Networks running through it. Cycle Colchester provide a handy map of local cycle routes. The city is also introducing a bike rental scheme, including e-bikes.

By foot

Colchester can be easily explored by foot and there are many dedicated footpaths and trails in the surrounding countryside too. 

Want to know more?

Head to Visit Essex for insider tips on Colchester from those in the know.