About Colchester
Colchester, Britain's oldest recorded town, is a treasure trove of history and culture. Known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, including the impressive Colchester Castle, the city offers a unique blend of ancient heritage and modern vibrancy. Visitors can explore the charming Dutch Quarter, stroll through Castle Park, or enjoy the lively arts scene at the Mercury Theatre. Colchester is also home to the University of Essex, adding a youthful energy to its historic streets. Don't miss the Colchester Zoo, one of the finest in the UK, or the annual Colchester Food and Drink Festival, showcasing local culinary delights.
Things to do in Colchester

Shared Wine, Chocolate and Cheese Tasting in Conesus Lake
From $20
5.0 (18)
Manchester Mission Scavenger Hunt
From $29
5.0 (3)
Axe Throwing in Rochester
From $36.99
5.0 (2)
Canandaigua Lake Brewery Tour
From $254.34
4.9 (10)
Haunted Oswego Tours
From $30
4.9 (14)
Canandaigua Wine Trail Experience

Corning Museum of Glass Admission Tickets
From $25
4.7 (581)
Genesee Country Village and Museum Admission Ticket
From $19
4.7 (9)
Luxury 2 Hour Sunset Tour Canandaigua Lake-Groups or Individuals

Zipline Canopy Activity Admission at Bristol Mountain
From $112
4.4 (7)
Oswego History Food & History Tour
From $80
4.0 (2)
Aerial Adventure Park Admission
From $61.5
3.6 (5)
Amazing Scavenger Hunt: Big Little Rochester
From $12.31

A Remarkable Bar Hunt: Rochester Rocks
From $12.31

Niagara Falls to DC Transfer with Corning Museum of Glass Tour
Places to visit in Colchester

Prested Hall
Prested Hall Chase, Braintree, CO5 9EE, United Kingdom

Holiday Inn Colchester
Holiday Inn Colchester, Abbotts Lane, Colchester, CO6 3QL, United Kingdom

West Bergholt Village Sign
West Bergholt Village Sign, Colchester Road, Colchester, CO6 3JD, United Kingdom

Holton Saint Mary Village Sign
Holton Saint Mary Village Sign, Rose Acre, Babergh, CO7 6NR, United Kingdom

A Hideaway Retreat
A Hideaway Retreat, 53 Anthony Close, Colchester, CO4 0LD, United Kingdom

The Sun Inn
The Sun Inn, High Street, Colchester, CO7 6DF, United Kingdom

Holiday Inn Express Colchester
Holiday Inn Express Colchester, Birchwood Road, Colchester, CO7 6HX, United Kingdom

Walking Woman
Walking Woman, High Street, Colchester, CO1 1PW, United Kingdom

Premier Inn
Premier Inn, Cowdray Avenue, Colchester, CO1 1UT, United Kingdom

Vortices
Vortices, Apprentice Drive, Colchester, CO4 5AR, United Kingdom

Globe Hotel
Globe Hotel, 71 North Station Road, Colchester, CO1 1RQ, United Kingdom

Red Lion Hotel
Red Lion Hotel, 43 High Street, Colchester, CO1 1DJ, United Kingdom

Katavi Cheetah Breeding Centre
Katavi Cheetah Breeding Centre, Maldon Road, Colchester, CO3 0SP, United Kingdom

Columbus Monkeys
Columbus Monkeys, Maldon Road, Colchester, CO3 0SP, United Kingdom

Macaques
Macaques, Maldon Road, Colchester, CO3 0SL, United Kingdom
Travel Tips for Colchester
Getting Around
Colchester has an efficient public transport system, including buses operated by First Essex. The city is also bike-friendly, with several cycle routes. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available. Walking is a great way to explore the compact city center.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Colchester is from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor attractions are fully operational. July and August are peak tourist months, so expect larger crowds.
Local Customs
Colchester residents take pride in their town's history. Respect local heritage sites and follow any guidelines when visiting. Pubs are central to social life, and tipping 10% in restaurants is customary.
Safety Information
Colchester is generally safe, but standard precautions against pickpocketing in crowded areas are advised. At night, stick to well-lit areas in the city center.
Health Information
Colchester has excellent healthcare facilities, including Colchester General Hospital. Travelers from non-EU countries should ensure they have travel insurance. Tap water is safe to drink.
Languages Spoken
English
Quick Facts
Timezone
Europe/London +00:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
44
Electricity
Driving Side
Left
Population
0.2 million
Area
32.6 km²
Government
Local government district
ISO Code
COL
Emergency Contacts
Also known as: Saint James the Great, Colchester




