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Visit Colchester
Visit Colchester - Britain's first Roman city. Watch our film to discover what awaits you.
Colchester in Essex is Britain's oldest recorded town and was the first city and capital in Roman Britain. Its rich history dates back over 2000 years.
But it's not just history. 21st Century Colchester is a thriving, modern town with first class visitor attractions, including the family favourites Colchester Zoo and Colchester Castle, as well as fantastic places to eat, drink and shop.
Poised at the gateway to East Anglia with picturesque villages and only minutes away from the coast, the Colchester area is the perfect destination for a well-deserved short break, day trip or family holiday.
What to do in Colchester?
With Roman Ruins, a Norman Castle, and Civil War scars - Colchester's history can be explored without even leaving the town centre, but head further afield and discover even more!
With both a Zoo and a Castle Colchester is off to a great start for any adventurous children. There's more to see and do whatever the weather, and it doesn't have to break the bank.
With three theatres and several art galleries, including the internationally recognised Firstsite, Colchester is the cultural hub of Essex and the local region.
Constable Country and Mersea Island are on Colchester's doorstep, as well as several award winning parks, gardens and nature reserves, there's plenty of opportunity to explore the outdoors.
Events in Colchester - Highlights
JACK AND THE BEANSTALK
Sat 24 Nov 2018 - Sun 20 Jan 2019
The Mercury panto is back, and this year it’s bigger and better than ever.
From Camulodunum to Colchester Guided Walking Tour
Sat 24 Nov 2018
Guided Tour through the Town Centre. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre
Lion Walk Christmas Light Switch-On
Wed 28 Nov 2018
Lion Walk Shopping Centre switch on their Christmas Lights
Victorian Colchester at Christmas Themed walk
Sun 9 Dec 2018
During the festive season that they loved so much, join your costumed guide to discover the Colchester that the Victorians knew. Meet at the War Memorial
The Blockheads
Fri 14 - Sat 15 Dec 2018
The classic English Rock & Roll group play two nights at Colchester Arts Centre
Crouch Street Christmas Grotto
Sat 15 Dec 2018
Santa visits the St Helena Hospice store on Crouch Street
Darth Vader's Galactic Grotto 2018
Sat 15 Dec 2018
Darth Vader has felt your presents, at Ace Comics.
More events around town
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Plan your visit
Colchester Visitor Information Centre
Tel: +44 (0) 1206 282920
Email: vic@colchester.gov.uk
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