When you move to university, there are so many new things to experience - both on and off campus! From fun societies to exploring the city's Roman roots, you're sure to be kept entertained.
We, here at Visit Colchester, are eager to inspire you to explore the wider city and surrounding areas, to ensure you don't miss out on anything we have to offer. We've compiled a handy bucket list of must-do activities, places to visit and food to try below, but you can read more about everything else Colchester has to offer on our website.
Must Do's:
- Learn about the City's History at Colchester Castle - brush up on your Roman history at this highly-acclaimed museum. You can even take a tour to the Roman vaults!
- Visit the Award-Winning Colchester Zoo - as one of the country's best zoos, you'll learn about conservation and some of the most famous animals in the world!
- Row the Boats in Dedham in the Summer - during the summer months, you can take a row boat from The Boatyard and sail away down the River Stour.
- See a show at the Mercury Theatre - featuring world-class productions, performances from famous comedians and so much more, the Mercury Theatre is the perfect spot for a great day out.
- Walk the Roman Walls - take a self guided tour to learn about the earliest, best preserved and one of the longest Roman city walls in Britain. Alternatively, for a broader overview of the city's history, join us on one of our weekly Camulodunum to Colchester tour, departing at 11am on Saturday.
Places to Visit:
- Mersea Island - rent an e-bike, try your hand at some watersports, or enjoy the sunset on the beach with some fish and chips! Be careful not to get caught out by High Tide.
- Wivenhoe - walk along the waterfront and explore local businesses and eateries at this small riverside town, located close to the University of Essex.
- Constable Country - explore this area of natural beauty, which has inspired English painters through the ages.
- Castle Park - located in the city centre, this Victorian park combines nature, history and fun! Enjoy concerts in the summer, picnics in the Spring and decorations in the Winter.
- St Botolph's Priory - explore the ruins of the first English Augustinian priory church, dating back to the 11th century. The ruins are particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
Must Try Foods:
- Colchester Native Oysters - these fine oceanic delicacies have been grown in Colchester and Mersea Island since Roman Times, and are considered to be the finest in the world. Whether you're enjoying them on your trip to Mersea Island, or in the city centre, many are as fresh as they come!
- Tiptree Jam - production for Wilkin & Sons Jam dates back to 1885. With berry and marmalade variations, and special productions of 'Little Scarlet' Strawberry Jam, Tiptree Jam is known all over the world. You can visit their tearoom and small museum in Tiptree, which is located a 15-20 minute drive from Colchester.
BONUS: Make a Colchester Pudding!
While you're unlikely to find a Colchester Pudding anywhere in the city, you can make your own at home using components like Fruit Compote, Custard, Meringue and Tapicoa!
For more inspiration on what to do, see and eat in Colchester, be sure to visit our other webpages. You can also visit our blog for inspiration on more fun days out in the area! Let us know what you're most excited to see and do in Colchester, plus your 'must sees', in the comments below.