We all know holidays and days out can be expensive, so we've put together a list of five ideas for fun days out for you and your family to enjoy! Many of these ideas don't require a car either, making them even more accessible for families hoping to make memories.
1. Explore Castle Park and Have a Picnic!
Castle Park is the perfect spot for a varied day out. After walking around the park to see the lovely flower displays, the grand Colchester Castle and the historic Roman walls, why not enjoy a picnic in the gorgeous Victorian grounds? Whether you're looking for an open green area, shady spots under trees, benches overlooking flowers or even a spot by a 1000 year old building, you'll never have the same view twice.
After a tasty picnic, your little ones can burn off their new-found energy in the open air playground. Complete with a variety of equipment and play pieces including a zip-wire, sandpit and trampoline, this play area is popular amongst locals and visitors alike. Kids could easily enjoy an hour or two playing before it's time to go home!
2. Take a Trip Round Colchester's Museums
With the exception of Colchester Castle and Hollytrees, all of the city centre's museums and art galleries are free to enter and explore (although donations are always encouraged).
Whether you're hoping to discover local wildlife in the Natural History Museum, or would prefer to engage with contemporary art at the Firstsite gallery, exploring the city's museums is a great free way to spend the day - especially on an unexpectedly rainy day!
Both the Natural History Museum and Firstsite are closed on Mondays, so be sure to consider this when planning your day to avoid disappointment.
Firstsite is a spot loved by people of all age groups. Skaters and artists alike can be found enjoying this gallery.
3. Pick up a Roman Trivia Trail and Explore the City!
Take a walk through Colchester City Centre and discover the Roman history that can be found right under your feet! From temples to theatres, chariot racing tracks to everyday houses - Colchester had it all. Follow the trail to discover some of the ancient sites, and to discover fascinating facts about Roman Colchester.
Once you've completed a trail either draw a picture of Roman Colchester or tell the team at the Visitor Information Centre your own fascinating fact and you'll get a small prize in return.
You can download the Roman Trivia Trail to print at home, or pick one up from the Visitor Information Centre - the team will also be happy to answer any questions you may have if you're unfamiliar with the city! If you're printing at home you may want to think about completing the trail backwards so you end up at the Visitor Information Centre to collect your prize.
4. Travel Back in Time with Heritage and History in the City Centre
Much of the city's history and heritage, including St Botolph's Priory, St John's Abbeygate, and most of Colchester's Roman remains are completely free to explore. As Britain's first city and oldest recorded town, you've got a lot to see!
One way to explore Colchester's history is the 'Walking the Walls' self-guided tour. The city's Roman Walls, which were erected in the years following Boudicca's attack on Camulodunum, have stood for 2000 years and have the stories and scars to prove it. Around two thirds of the wall is still standing making it the earliest, best preserved and longest town wall in Britain.
As one of the most important sections of the Roman Walls, Balkerne Gate will be one of the stops on your tour.
A digital copy of the map can be downloaded from our 'Walking Tour of the Roman and Medieval Gates' page, but you can also purchase a physical copy from the Visitor Information Centre.
Alternatively, another great offering is the Roman Colchester Audio Tour. These free audio tracks take you on a tour of some of Colchester's most historic and influential buildings, sharing not only their history but also their significance!
Top tip: download your resources ahead of time, just in case you cannot access wifi while you're out and about. If you're struggling to download them at home, you can access free wifi at the Colchester Library with your account details.
5. Get Crafty at Wivenhoe Park
Throughout the summer, there are plenty of creativity activities to get involved with up at Wivenhoe Park. Located on the University of Essex campus, the Art Exchange are offering some fun and free crafty sessions, suitable for the whole family.
Painting in the Park, Cyanotype Photography, Sculptures and Circus Skills are some of the events on offer, but you can see the full line up on the Art Exchange website. Cafes, toilets and baby changing facilities are all nearby on campus, so you don't have to worry about those.
Image credit: The Art Exchange, Painting in the Park
And as a BONUS adventure...why not visit Beth Chatto's Plants and Gardens? In August, kids can explore the gardens for free with a paying adult and can join in with fun activities, including a butterfly count, a woodland trail and craft activities. For more details, reach out to the attraction's team!
For more inspiration for free attractions and events, be sure to visit our 'Free Days Out in Colchester' page for more information.
