Enjoy a Full Day Tour of Historic Colchester and Wilkins of Tiptree
If you're bringing a group that love life's little pleasures and are looking to leisurely enjoy a day in a historic city, this itinerary may be the one for you. Spend your morning exploring Colchester’s vibrant city centre before heading out into the Essex countryside to Tiptree, home of world-famous jam producers Wilkins and Sons.
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-2pm: 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. 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’s, pubs or restaurants - you can find something to suit all tastes and budgets.
2pm: be sure to save some room as, after lunch, you'll have the opportunity to sample more goodies at Wilkins and Sons Jam Factory in Tiptree. Explore the quirky museum, enjoy afternoon cream tea in the tearoom, and visit the gift shop. Visit tiptree.com for more information.
Located approximately a 25 minute drive (10miles) from Colchester, the factory has onsite parking available. Typically, it's recommend to allow 1-1.5 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.