Discover Colchester with Greater Anglia

Colchester proudly holds the title of the oldest recorded town in Britain, rich in Roman heritage and cultural attractions with a town centre that is bustling with shops, restaurants, bars and cafes. It also the gateway to Constable Country, an area of outstanding natural beauty immortalised by the renowned landscape artist John Constable.

There are many things to do in Colchester with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for visitors interested in exploring Britain's heritage and experi-encing its contemporary charm.

If you are looking for things to do in Colchester, here are some popular options:

Things to do in Colchester

Colchester Castle

Explore the fascinating history of Colchester at Colchester Castle, the largest Norman keep in Eu-rope. Discover interactive exhibits, archaeological finds, and panoramic views of the town from the castle's rooftop platform.

Cultural Attractions

Immerse yourself in Colchester's vibrant cultural scene by visiting museums, galleries, and thea-ters. Highlights include the Hollytrees Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Mercury The-atre, which hosts a variety of live performances throughout the year.

Colchester Arts Centre

Enjoy live music, comedy, and theater performances at the Colchester Arts Centre, housed in a historic church building. With a diverse program of events, there's something for everyone to enjoy at this popular venue.

Shopping and Dining

Explore Colchester's town centre, which is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cafes. From high street brands to independent boutiques and international cuisine to traditional British fare, there's plenty to satisfy your shopping and dining desires.

Beer Tasting and Brewery Tours

Sample locally brewed beers and learn about the brewing process with a brewery tour. Colchester is home to several breweries, including Colchester Brewery and the Mersea Island Brewery, offer-ing tours and tastings for beer enthusiasts.

Outdoor Activities

Take advantage of Colchester's green spaces by going for a leisurely stroll or picnic in one of the town's parks. Castle Park, with its beautiful gardens and riverside walks, is a popular choice for outdoor recreation.

Golf

Tee off at one of Colchester's golf courses, such as Stoke by Nayland Golf Club or Colchester Golf Club, and enjoy a round of golf amidst scenic countryside surroundings.

Spa Day

Treat yourself to a relaxing spa day at one of Colchester's spa facilities, where you can unwind with massages, facials, and other rejuvenating treatments.

Day Trips

Use Colchester as a base for exploring the surrounding area. Visit nearby attractions such as Con-stable Country, Dedham Vale, and the Essex coast, or take a trip to neighboring towns and cities like Ipswich and Chelmsford, all accessible by train.

Food and drink

After all that exploring, you’ll want to stop for rest and refreshment and Colchester offers a diverse culinary scene with a variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget.

For a more casual dining experience, explore Colchester's vibrant market, where you'll find a vari-ety of street food stalls and vendors selling everything from global cuisine to local specialties.

For stylish dining try The George Hotel, located in a historic building in the heart of Colchester, or

Tymperleys, housed in a beautiful Tudor building near Colchester Castle, for afternoon tea, light lunches, and homemade cakes.

The Red Lion Hotel, on Colchester's High Street, offers a cosy pub atmosphere and a menu featur-ing hearty British classics, pub favorites, and daily specials alongside a selection of real ales and craft beers.

The North Hill Hotel is a family-run hotel and restaurant offering a warm welcome and a menu fea-turing modern British dishes with a Mediterranean twist.

Where to stay

Whether you're looking for historic charm, modern amenities, or a peaceful retreat, Colchester has something to suit every travelers needs.

For those on a budget, the Premier Inn Colchester Town Centre is located just a short walk from Colchester's town centre, and offers budget friendly, comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant.

For something more unique, try the GreyFriars Hotel, located in a historic building in the heart of Colchester's town centre, The George Hotel, near Colchester Castle, The North Hill Hotel or the St Nicholas Hotel overlooking Colchester's historic Castle Park.

Getting there

Travel by train to Colchester with Greater Anglia. The town centre is about a 20 minute walk away from the station, or there are frequent buses from the main road outside the station and taxis directly from the station.

Discounted rail fares include Advance tickets that offer savings of between 60 and 70% on the standard walk-up prices, GroupSave which offers 1/3 off all fares for people travelling in a group of three or more and a Club 50 discount for those aged 50 and over.

With our price promise and no booking fees, you are guaranteed to get the lowest price when you book through our website.

For the best value fares, passengers should book in advance and the earlier customers book, the more they can save.

For more information on ticket fares and timetables visit www.greateranglia.co.uk.