If your group has varied interests, or a specific interest in gardening or horticulture, this itinerary could be the one for you. After visiting the Colchester's historic city centre, round off your day at famous and award-winning Beth Chatto Gardens.
Keep reading for the full itinerary, or click here for a downloadable PDF.
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 explore the city, 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. While you're visiting Firstsite, be sure to stop by their 'Meanwhile Garden'; this temporary garden, which was a collaboration between Beth Chatto's Plants and Gardens and Colchester City Council, combines drought tolerant Mediterranean species, gravelly soil and crushed brick.
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!
Organise a Guided Tour for Your Group
Another great option for history-loving groups is one of our organised 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.
Take a Break and Enjoy Some Lunch
Have lunch at one of Colchester’s many tearooms, café’s, pubs or restaurants - you can find something to suit all tastes and budgets.
1:30pm: it's time to say goodbye to the city centre, and hello to Beth Chatto Gardens! Depart from the coach drop off point on Colchester High Street (CO1 1UE) and set off on a short 20-minute drive to Beth Chatto Gardens, Elmstead Market, CO7 7DB.
This spot was established when world-renowned gardener Beth Chatto took an overgrown wasteland of brambles, parched gravel and boggy ditches, and transformed it using plenty of plants, adapted by nature to thrive in different conditions. It's a must visit attraction for gardeners and non-gardeners alike. Beth Chatto Gardens also boasts a tearoom and plant nursery for afternoon refreshments and shopping
Located approximately about 5 miles from the City Centre, Beth Chatto Gardens has onsite Coach Parking, for more information visit: bethchatto.co.uk. Typically, it's recommended to allow 2 hours for your visit.
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.