What's On This February Half Term in Colchester
Colchester is a great place to be over the school holidays. With a mix of free and paid activities for kids and families, there's plenty to do for all budgets and taste, whether you're looking to learn more about the city's history, take part in a fast-paced physical activity to burn off some of that end-of-term energy or enjoy a peaceful walk through nature.
If the sun's out, it just makes sense to take advantage of it! For a bigger day out, you might enjoy the award-winning Colchester Zoo, with a mix of outdoor and undercover enclosures. Alternatively, you can pick up a Roman Trivia Trail online or directly from the Visitor Information Centre, for a free, family-friendly, historical trip around the city. You might also enjoy an outdoor picnic at High Woods Country Park, a walk down the Wivenhoe Trail or some bird-spotting at Abberton Reservoir Nature Reserve. Mersea Island is also the perfect spot for a beachy family lunch, or for enjoying some watersports - if the weather permits!
For the history fanatics, Colchester is home to seemingly-endless Roman history. Why not take the kids the Roman Circus Visitor Centre to learn more about the remains of only known Roman circus in Britain; explore Colchester Castle and enjoy some of their fun activities; or walk around the city, either on a self-guided tour of the Roman and Medieval gates, or on a guided tour of the city with one of our friendly guides. For more history and culture, check out 'Museums and Galleries' page.
However, if the weather isn't quite as bright, why not try your hand at indoor, family-friendly activities like Bowling, Laser Tag, Pottery Painting or the watching a film at the Cinema? For sports, you might also enjoy a swimming session at Colchester Leisure World, or maybe hiring a court at the Colchester Sports Park. Visit our 'Things to Do' page to see more of the activities Colchester has to offer.
Explore some of the family-friendly activities Colchester has to offer below, and be sure to visit our 'Events' page for more inspiration, as there are plenty of great kid-friendly concerts and shows coming up over the this half term!
Mythical Creatures
From 26 July 2025 until 22 February 2026, embark on a magical story quest through folklore and…
Guided Walking Tour: From Camulodunum to Colchester
Take a guided walking tour around Colchester to discover its history and heritage with an expert…
Crafty Fools: Adventures in Science!
Join ‘The Magical Mr West’ on an incredible adventure into the world of science! Aided…
Fingringhoe Friendship bracelets
Learn different techniques to create friendship bracelets and natural cordage in our lovely woodland…
Fingringhoe Willow Hearts & Love Tokens for Adults
About the event Be inspired by nature to create willow hearts and love tokens for your friends and…
Fingringhoe: Welcome to the Stone Age!
Go back in time at Fingringhoe and experience the Stone Age like never before! Join us…