Colchester in Essex is Britain's oldest recorded town and was one of the most important settlements in Roman Britain. Its rich history dates back over 2000 years.
But it's not just history. 21st Century Colchester is a thriving, modern town with first class visitor attractions, including the family favourites Colchester Zoo and Colchester Castle, as well as fantastic places to eat, drink and shop.
Poised at the gateway to East Anglia with picturesque villages and only minutes away from the coast, the Colchester area is the perfect destination for a well-deserved short break, day trip or family holiday.
What to do in Colchester?
With Roman Ruins, a Norman Castle, and Civil War scars - Colchester's history can be explored without even leaving the town centre, but head further afield and discover even more!
With both a Zoo and a Castle Colchester is off to a great start for any adventurous children. There's more to see and do whatever the weather, and it doesn't have to break the bank.
With three theatres and several art galleries, including the internationally recognised Firstsite, Colchester is the cultural hub of Essex and the local region.
Constable Country and Mersea Island are on Colchester's doorstep, as well as several award winning parks, gardens and nature reserves, there's plenty of opportunity to explore the outdoors.
Events in Colchester - Highlights
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Mon 28 May 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
33rd Colchester Real Ale & Cider Festival
Tue 29 May - Sat 2 Jun 2018
Open from 12noon until 11pm everyday
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Sat 2 Jun 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
Summer Evening Walk: Camulodunum to Colchester
Wed 6 Jun 2018
Early evening Guided Tour through the Town Centre
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Sat 9 Jun 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
HM The Queen's Birthday Royal Gun Salute
Sat 9 Jun 2018
A 21-gun Royal Gun Salute to mark HM The Queen's Official Birthday in Lower Castle Park. Spectator viewing from the Upper Park.
Summer Evening Walk: Camulodunum to Colchester
Wed 13 Jun 2018
Early evening Guided Tour through the Town Centre
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Sat 16 Jun 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
Father's Day Steam Up
Sun 17 Jun 2018
It’s all about DAD at the railway museum today so bring him along to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of this special steam day.
More events around town
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Plan your visit
Colchester Visitor Information Centre
Tel: +44 (0) 1206 282920
Email: vic@colchester.gov.uk
