So much to see, do and experience in Colchester this month!
The summer season may be over, but as we head into autumn, there is plenty to enjoy in Colchester. One event definitely not to be missed is the major exhibition Out of Line: Banksy and the Art of Dissent at The Minories Gallery. A stand-out event of the year, let alone month sees ground-breaking artists such as Banksy, Invader and KAWS with work on display!
Whether you're making the most of the changing seasons with scenic walks along the River Colne or spending time exploring the historic exhibitions at Colchester Castle or Hollytrees Museum, there is something for every visitor to enjoy.
Supernatural
Fancy a foray into a the spirit world in time for spooky season? Moon, Magic + Mystery at Colchester Castle and Hollytrees Museum is a two day mini-festival inspired by the arrival of Luke Jerram’s spectacular Museum of the Moon installation. Expect tarot readings, regression sessions and historical talks!
FREE!
Several free events will be taking place in October, including the monthly Town Hall Organ Recital, as well as a free tour of the impressive Victorian building itself. The Natural History Museum continues to fascinate visitors. Showcasing local wildlife habitats, the area's biodiversity and ancient fossils from the Colchester area, it is the perfect place to enjoy with little ones or on your own.
Simon Carter brings the Essex landscape indoors at Firstsite Colchester with his new exhibition. Don't forget to visit the Berryfield Mosaic, a well-preserved Roman mosaic on display for all to see while you're there!
Why not pop by Colchester Library to discover a small but mighty exhibition by renowned artist James Cook, Authors in Type: A Typewriter Art Exhibition! The exhibition displays 50 portraits of some of the world's greatest authors, created entirely using a typewriter!
Food and Drink
We stomp into October with the riotous Oktoberfest in true Bavarian style, complete with steins, songs and optional full costume in Colchester Castle Park. On the first Saturday of the month, peruse a wide selection of seasonal, locally produced goodies at Colchester Farmers Market.
The cooler weather brings the season of Colchester Native Oysters in Mersea, steaming-hot roast dinners in pubs and restaurants from coast to countryside. The world-renowned native oysters are available at many coastal pubs and restaurants. Locals have been enjoying them for centuries, even as far back to the Roman conquest.
Oystermen on Mersea Island hard at work
Arts
As the nights draw in and the weather cools, there is plenty of live entertainment across local arts venues. Enjoy a wide variety of classical music at several iconic Colchester locations during the Roman River Music Festival. The Tudor gatehouse Layer Marney Tower, St Mary's Church of Dedham and the angelic St Michael & All Angels Church are among the impressive hosts.
Later in the month, Colchester Fringe returns for its fifth year. Comedy, drag, drama, dance and spoken word will all feature among more than 70 performances during its 11-day run!
If Banksy and isn’t your style, you could travel to Chappel Galleries who will be celebrating their birthday with a new exhibition, My Generation. This sees a display of 88 art works by artists who have exhibited at Chappel Galleries over their 40 years of opening.
GUMBO Theatre will be performing for Colchester Fringe 2026!
