Things to Do in Colchester

Colchester is a beautiful town in Essex, England, known for its long and exciting history. Many people believe it’s the oldest recorded town in Britain, and you can still see its past through castles, museums, and old buildings. But Colchester isn’t just about history, it’s also full of fun things to do, pretty parks, cute cafés, and amazing family attractions.

What to do in Colchester

If you’re planning a trip and wondering what to do in Colchester, here’s a full guide to the best places to visit and explore in this lovely town.

1. Explore the Famous Colchester Castle

One of the top attractions in Colchester is Colchester Castle. It’s a big, ancient castle built almost 1,000 years ago by the Normans. The castle now has a museum inside that tells stories about the Romans, kings, and warriors who once lived here.

You can walk around, see old weapons and clothes, and even go down into the castle’s dark dungeons! The museum is full of fun facts, videos, and hands-on activities that make history come alive.

Outside the castle, there’s a lovely park where families can relax, eat ice cream, or take photos. It’s the perfect place to start your Colchester adventure.

2. Have a Wild Day at Colchester Zoo

If you love animals, then Colchester Zoo is a must-visit! It’s one of the most popular zoos in the UK and home to more than 200 species. You can see lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, rhinos, monkeys, and even penguins!

There are feeding sessions where you can watch the zookeepers care for the animals, and there are also fun talks to help you learn about wildlife from around the world. Kids love the Lost Madagascar Train Ride and the large play areas spread across the zoo.

The zoo also has cafés and picnic spots, so you can spend the whole day exploring without getting bored.

3. Relax and Play in Castle Park

Right in the heart of the town is Castle Park, one of the prettiest parks in Essex. It’s a peaceful place where you can walk, run, or simply enjoy the green space. The park has colourful gardens, a big lake with ducks and swans, and plenty of benches for resting.

There’s also a miniature railway, children’s play area, and an open-air stage where concerts and events are held in summer. During warm months, it’s common to see families having picnics and kids playing games.

If you’re looking for free things to do in Colchester, Castle Park is perfect. It’s calm, clean, and great for spending a sunny afternoon.

4. Visit the Natural History Museum

If you like learning new things, the Colchester Natural History Museum is a great stop. It’s free to visit and full of interesting displays about nature, animals, and fossils. You can see dinosaur bones, stuffed animals, and learn about how Colchester’s landscape changed over time.

It’s a small museum, but very informative and fun for children and adults alike. It’s located in an old church building, which makes the visit even more special.

5. Shop and Eat in Colchester Town Centre

Colchester’s town centre is full of life! There are lots of shops, cafés, restaurants, and local markets. You can find everything, from clothes and shoes to handmade gifts and delicious treats.

The Culver Square Shopping Centre and Lion Walk are the main shopping areas. After shopping, you can grab a coffee or lunch at one of the local cafés. The market also has stalls that sell fresh fruits, local food, and souvenirs, perfect for taking something special home.

6. Enjoy a Show at the Mercury Theatre

If you love drama, music, or dance, then visit the Mercury Theatre. It’s one of Colchester’s best entertainment spots. The theatre hosts many shows throughout the year — from funny comedies to children’s plays and even musicals.

The seats are comfortable, the sound is great, and the staff are friendly. It’s a wonderful place to relax in the evening after exploring the town all day.

7. Walk Along the Colchester Roman Walls

Colchester is famous for its Roman history. Almost 2,000 years ago, the Romans built strong stone walls around the town — and some parts still stand today! You can take a walk around the Colchester Roman Walls and imagine how soldiers once guarded the city.

It’s an amazing spot for history lovers and photographers. You can follow the Colchester Roman Trail, which takes you around old landmarks like the Balkerne Gate, the largest Roman gateway in Britain.

8. See Art at the Firstsite Gallery

If you like art, head to Firstsite, Colchester’s modern art gallery. It has free exhibitions that show paintings, sculptures, and digital art from artists around the world. The building itself is beautiful and often hosts workshops and movie nights.

It’s a calm and creative place to visit — great for both adults and kids who enjoy drawing or learning about art.

9. Visit Beth Chatto Gardens

Just a short drive from the town centre, Beth Chatto Gardens is a peaceful and colourful garden created by famous gardener Beth Chatto. You can see plants from all over the world and walk through different themed gardens like the Water Garden and Gravel Garden.

It’s a relaxing place for nature lovers, and there’s a cute tearoom where you can enjoy tea and cakes after your walk.

Conclusion

Colchester is full of surprises! From ancient castles and Roman walls to exciting zoos and peaceful gardens, there are endless things to do in Colchester for everyone. Whether you love history, animals, nature, or shopping, this town has something special for you.

So, next time you’re planning a trip in England, don’t forget to add Colchester to your list. It’s fun, family-friendly, and full of charm!