Colchester Castle

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About

Colchester Castle is the largest Norman Keep in Europe. Constructed on the foundations of the Temple of Claudius, built when Colchester was the first Roman capital of Britain, the Castle Museum today reveals many fascinating layers of history to visitors. Archaeological collections of international quality covering 2,500 years of history are beautifully showcased, including of the most important Roman finds in Britain.

The Castle is one of England's most important heritage sites and one of the most popular visitor attractions in the East of England.

A visit to Colchester Castle is now bigger, brighter and better than ever before, with brand new interactive displays including new finds and star exhibits like the Colchester Vase and the Colchester Mercury statuette.

Visitors can try out some exciting new experiences - try your hand at building a Norman archway, excavating a Roman doctor's grave or steering a chariot around Colchester's recently uncovered Roman Circus! Be wowed as a large scale 'son et lumière' projection transforms the east wall with light and sound.

There are regular family events, and plenty to occupy children from dressing up to stepping inside a recreated thatched Celtic Roundhouse. Expert-led tours down into the creepy Roman vaults and up onto the panoramic Castle roof can be booked for a small additional charge, and take place regularly every day.

Book Tickets

Guide Prices

Adults: £12.50
Child(4-16): £6.95
Student: £7.95
Concessions (Disability, Benefits, Armed Forces): £7.95
Family Saver (2+2): £32.95
Family Saver (2+1): £27.50
Family Saver (1+3): £28.50

Discounts available for pre-booked groups.

Events

Tuesday, 13th June 2023 - Thursday, 18th January 2024

Will Teather's Globe in Colchester CastleThe Colchester GlobesInternationally renowned artist, Will Teather brings three unique artwork to Colchester located across the city centre.
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Saturday, 2nd December 2023 - Sunday, 3rd December 2023

Saturday, 9th December 2023 - Sunday, 10th December 2023

Saturday, 16th December 2023 - Sunday, 17th December 2023

Thursday, 21st December 2023 - Saturday, 23rd December 2023

Meet Father Christmas at Colchester CastleColchester Castle’s magical grotto is back for 2023!
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Wednesday, 6th December 2023 - Wednesday, 6th December 2023

Christmas Open Evening at Colchester CastleFREE Open Evening at Colchester Castle!
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Monday, 18th December 2023 - Wednesday, 20th December 2023

Tiny Tots Festive Fun!Tiny Tots Festive Fun!NEW for 2023! This year Colchester Castle have set aside three dates for nursery groups to come and meet Father Christmas.
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Friday, 22nd December 2023 - Friday, 22nd December 2023

Christmas-Open-DayAn Evening With Father Christmas And FriendsJoin Father Christmas and his elves at Colchester Castle for a fun packed evening of craft, games, and Christmas magic!
more info

Facilities

Accessibility

  • Disabled access
  • Disabled toilets

Booking & Payment Details

  • Credit cards accepted (no fee)

Catering

  • Picnic site

Children

  • Baby changing facilities
  • Children welcome

Groups

  • Education/study area
  • Facilities for educational visits
  • Facilities for groups

Property Facilities

  • Dogs not accepted (except guidedogs)
  • Gift shop
  • Public toilets
  • Smoking not allowed

Site Features

  • Welcome Host

Target Markets

  • Accepts groups
  • Coach parties accepted

Map & Directions

Colchester

Road Directions

Situated in the Town Centre in the Grounds of the Magnificent Castle Park.Accessible by Public Transport: Colchester Town station is 0 miles away.

Colchester Castle Museum

Type:Museum

Castle Park, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1TJ

Tel: 01206 282939

Fax: 01206 282925

Awards

  • Visit EnglandVistEngland VAQAS Gold VistEngland VAQAS Gold 2018

Opening Times

Season (1 Jan 2023 - 31 Dec 2023)
DayTimes
Monday - Saturday10:00 - 17:00
Sunday11:00 - 17:00
Bank Holiday10:00 - 17:00

* Last admission is at 16:30

Call 01206 282939 for group bookings