History & Heritage

Colchester has a colourful history dating back over two thousand years. It's a history you can share by visiting the city's award-winning museums where you can see collections of international importance including the Fenwick Treasure and Colchester Mercury (pictured).

As Britain's First City and the former capital of Roman Britain Colchester has many important and unique Roman sites and ruins, but a lengthy history means there is plenty to discover from other eras of English History including the Normans, Tudors and Victorians who all contributed to Colchester's story, as well as the English Civil War which made significant marks on the city that can still be clearly seen today.

Historic Places to Visit in Colchester

Alongside Colchester Castle Museum, you can discover the history and heritage of Colchester at numerous attractions around the city. From the ruins of the country's oldest church to the winding streets of the Dutch Quarter where Twinkle Twinkle Little Star was written, there are stories to be found and discoveries to be made around every corner.

Visit the only known Roman Circus in Britain, or learn about the social history of the city in Hollytrees Museum, if you're interested in history then you'll need more than just a day-trip to fit in everything Colchester has to offer - why not stay for a few days in one of our historic hotels?

Historic Places beyond the City Centre

Many of Colchester's nearby villages boast a history that is just as fascinating as Colchester's story. 

Take a short car journey, or brief hop on public transport and you could discover Britain's largest Tudor Gateway in Layer Marney or the landscapes and buildings immortalised by some of England's finest painters scattered throughout Constable Country and the Dedham Vale. 

The history and heritage of this part of Essex and East Anglia is as widespread as it is ancient, and it is all easily accessible from Colchester.