Colchester Castle

Book Tickets Online

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: £11.25
Child(4-16): £6.25
Student: £7.25
Concessions (Disability, Benefits, Armed Forces): £7.25
Family Saver (2+2): £30.00
Family Saver (2+1): £25.00
Family Saver (1+3): £26.00

Discounts available for pre-booked groups.

Events

Saturday, 1st April 2023 - Sunday, 16th April 2023

A picture of Colchester Castle with a Jester's hat superimposed on one of the towersJolly Jester TrailTry and beat the Jolly Jester by taking part in their activity trail!
more info

Monday, 3rd April 2023 - Friday, 7th April 2023

Monday, 10th April 2023 - Friday, 14th April 2023

family toursColchester Castle Family ToursSpecial Tours at Colchester Castle
more info

Monday, 3rd April 2023 - Monday, 3rd April 2023

Wednesday, 5th April 2023 - Wednesday, 5th April 2023

Friday, 7th April 2023 - Friday, 7th April 2023

Monday, 10th April 2023 - Monday, 10th April 2023

Wednesday, 12th April 2023 - Wednesday, 12th April 2023

Friday, 14th April 2023 - Friday, 14th April 2023

Costumed Characters at Colchester CastleCostumed Characters at Colchester CastleOn a visit to Colchester Castle look out for costumed characters wandering around the museum
more info

Monday, 3rd April 2023 - Sunday, 16th April 2023

Easter Craft & Games RoomCrafting fun in Colchester Castle
more info

Tuesday, 4th April 2023 - Tuesday, 4th April 2023

Thursday, 6th April 2023 - Thursday, 6th April 2023

Tuesday, 11th April 2023 - Tuesday, 11th April 2023

Thursday, 13th April 2023 - Thursday, 13th April 2023

A man wearing a knight's helmet reads from a bookStorytelling in Colchester CastleStorytelling in Colchester Castle
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