Visit Colchester - Britain's first Roman city. Watch our film to discover what awaits you.
Colchester in Essex is Britain's oldest recorded town and was the first city and capital 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
Marks Hall Garden and Country Show
Sat 21 - Sun 22 Jul 2018
Family Event at Marks Hall Gardens and Arboretum
Edinburgh Preview Week at Colchester Arts Centre
Mon 23 - Sat 28 Jul 2018
A week of comedy at Colchester Arts Centre as top acts look to hone their shows in advance of the Edinburgh Festival
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Wed 25 Jul 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
Colchester Summer Beer & Cider Festival
Thu 26 - Sun 29 Jul 2018
Beer Festival at Colchester Cricket Club
Babe, The Sheep-Pig
Fri 27 Jul - Sun 26 Aug 2018
The classic children's tale live on stage at the Mercury Theatre
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Sat 28 Jul 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
Discovering New Town Themed Walk
Sat 28 Jul 2018
Explore New Town, a “new build” Victorian suburb between Colchester’s industrial port area and the old Garrison,
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Wed 1 Aug 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Sat 4 Aug 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
Kentwell Hall - The Hall at War event
Sat 4 - Sun 5 Aug 2018
A wonderful event illustrating what life what like during WWI & WWII, plus Tudors.
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Wed 8 Aug 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Sat 11 Aug 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Wed 15 Aug 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
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
