Things to See & Do in Colchester

Colchester offers every visitor a huge range of great things to see and do and interesting places to visit, whatever your taste or budget. With so many activities, events, places to eat, drink & shop to choose from, you never need be at a loss for things to do in Colchester and the surrounding area.

There are plenty of attractions and activities in Colchester town centre and beyond, whether you’re looking for things to do in Colchester today or want to plan ahead and find out what’s going on when you visit.

Find your Colchester accommodation now and plan your perfect fun-packed visit to Colchester, full of great activities and unforgettable experiences.

• Find out what to visit on your trip to Colchester by browsing Colchester's Top Attractions.
• Watch our great videos and discover some of the Borough's hidden gems
• Explore the town's fantastic historical and cultural attractions including Colchester Castle and Firstsite Art Gallery
• Get back to nature in the town's parks, gardens and nature reserves, or for some more exotic animals why not visit Colchester Zoo?

See more Attractions

• Get out and about with some great walking routes and cycle paths around the Colchester area
• Browse our featured venues that are sure to keep you busy - from where to play a round of golf to the location of Europe's finest roller-rink.
• Discover our secrets for wearing out the kids with our great activites listings.

• Get great suggestions for popular walking and cycling routes
• There are walks for all abilities - take a stroll around the park, or embark on the 81 mile Essex Way
• Download maps to help you find your way
• Learn what landmarks to keep an eye out for along your route

• Discover attractions that are great for kids around Colchester
• Keep the children entertained whatever the weather.
• Keep an eye on our child-friendly event listings 
• Check back regularly for special features on what's on in the school holidays in Colchester.
• Find great activities happening all year round that are both fun and informative.

• See what's happening in Colchester that won't break the bank.
• Find out which venues have free entry, and what events won't cost you a penny. 
• Discover historic sites and museums with no charges
• Explore cultural venues with no entrance fees
• Find Nature Reserves and Parks that are completely free to explore

• Learn about Colchester's history and heritage spanning back over 2000 years.
• Discover great heritage sites and historical attractions to visit
• Explore Colchester's Artistic Heritage, from the Romans to the present day
• Browse through local Galleries, Arts Venues, and the contemporary art scene. 

More Culture & Heritage

• Explore the artistic side of Colchester.
• Learn about Colchester's Arts Venues including three theatres and a dedicated Arts Centre
• Find out what plays and shows are on during your stay
• Discover a selection of featured local galleries and preview the exhibitions that will be running during your stay.

• Get a feel for the small lanes with their independent outlets and boutique stores.
• Discover East Anglia's largest department store - Fenwick Colchester.
• Enjoy shopping for branded goods at a fantastic selection of High Street chain stores, in our pedestrianised shopping precincts.
• Browse our dedicated event listings for markets, fairs and other pop-up shopping experiences.