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
Wivenhoe Free Film Festival: Reel Lives
Fri 20 - Sun 29 Apr 2018
10 days of free films in Wivenhoe celebrating real-life stories.
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Sat 21 Apr 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Sat 28 Apr 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
Colchester United v Swindon Town
Sat 28 Apr 2018
League 2 Fixture at the Weston Homes Community Stadium
Jane's Walk Festival
Thu 3 - Mon 7 May 2018
The International festival of local walks comes to Colchester
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Sat 5 May 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Mon 7 May 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
Steve Lamacq: Going Deaf For A Living
Tue 8 May 2018
The BBC 6 Music DJ returns to his hometown to talk all things music.
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Sat 12 May 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
Uncovering Roman Colchester. Themed Tour
Sat 12 May 2018
Follow in the footsteps of the Emperor Claudius and Queen Boudica as you discover Colchester’s fascinating Roman history.
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Sat 19 May 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
