Enjoy a Day Trip to Colchester and the Beautiful Constable Country

This is one of our most flexible itineraries, making it perfect for groups with varied interests. Whether you're interested in history, culture or simply being in touch with the Great Outdoors, you can easily adapt your plans to ensure everyone is happy.

Keep reading for the full itinerary, or click here for a downloadable PDF to inspire you.

10am: Drop Off your group at the coach drop-off point on the High Street, located just two minutes walk to the Visitor Information Centre and Colchester Castle in Castle Park, CO1 1UE. Park at Sheepen Road Lorry Park, CO3 3LE - be sure to book free parking in advance through the Visitor Information Centre (subject to availability). 

10am-1:30pm: begin your day by leisurely exploring the city, either independently or with one of our organised private guided tours. The team at the Visitor Information Centre can arrange guided tours for your group, perfect for those who wish to delve a bit deeper into the history and heritage of Colchester; from the Romans to the modern day, and 2000 years in-between, Colchester has a fascinating history to tell.

If you're exploring independently, we'd recommend starting in one of our fantastic museums; to learn more about the city's history, be sure to visit Colchester Castle and Hollytrees Museum (entry fees apply), or visit Firstsite and the Natural History Museum to learn about modern factors that shape the city. For art, why not visit The Minories? Set in a Georgian townhouse, this art gallery has a rotating collection of local pieces.

Alternatively, spend enjoy beautiful Castle Park and historic sites such as the ruins of St Botolph’s Priory and the Roman Walls. Visit our 'Things to Do' page for some extra inspiration.

Colchester City Centre is compact and cosy, and all venues are within walking distance of each other. There are some great spots to visit, but be sure make time to visit the Colchester Visitor Information Centre on the ground floor of Hollytrees Museum - our friendly team are happy to help with city centre maps and information, and to offer the chance to buy Colchester gifts and postcards!

Take a Break and Enjoy Some Lunch

Have lunch at one of Colchester’s many tearooms, café’spubs or restaurants - you can find something to suit all tastes and budgets. 

1:30pm: it's time to say 'goodbye' to the city, and venture out to the countryside! Leave Colchester around 1:30 and head towards Dedham, which is a 15-minute drive via the A-12. Typically, it's recommend to allow 1-1.5 hours for your visit.

Spend time in the beautiful village of Dedham at the heart of Constable Country. Whether you're exploring the views made famous by Constable or learning more about his art at the Munnings Art Museum, taking a leisurely boat ride in the Summer or visiting the tearooms and shops, your entire group are sure to be satisfied in this cosy village.

Free coach parking is available at the Mill Lane coach and car park (CO7 6DH), which is located about 5 minutes walk from the village centre. Click here for more information.

If you're organising group travel, don't forget to take advantage of our Coach Incentive Scheme, which includes free coach parking in Colchester, and 50% discount on entry to Colchester Castle for everyone in your group. For more information about what's available and where to park, please visit our 'Information for Coach Drivers' page.