Discover the most popular places to visit in Colchester
Colchester Castle Park
9.0/10 (164 reviews)
Stroll through centuries of history around the imposing Norman castle in this award-winning park. Explore formal Victorian gardens, cross Roman walls, and relax by the River Colne's tranquil waters.
Colchester Zoo
9.2/10 (85 reviews)
Explore diverse species in immersive habitats at Colchester Zoo, where conservation meets adventure. Hand-feed giraffes or watch playful sea lions in this award-winning wildlife sanctuary.
Flatford Mill
9.4/10 (15 reviews)
This historic watermill inspired John Constable's iconic painting "The Hay Wain." Stroll the riverside paths where art history was made, then relax at the charming tea-room overlooking the Stour.
Beth Chatto Garden
9.2/10 (9 reviews)
Created by renowned gardener Beth Chatto, these ecological gardens showcase plants thriving in challenging environments. The innovative Gravel Garden features drought-resistant species flourishing without irrigation.
Layer Marney Tower
9.2/10 (15 reviews)
England's tallest Tudor gatehouse invites you to climb 99 steps for sweeping Essex countryside views. Explore formal gardens, historic church, and farm animals before relaxing at the tearoom overlooking the estuary.
Colchester Town Hall
8.6/10 (55 reviews)
This Victorian-era civic masterpiece showcases Colchester's heritage through ornate rooms and historical regalia. Book a guided tour to explore the Moot Hall and Mayor's Parlour.
Mercury Theatre
8.8/10 (9 reviews)
This vibrant cultural hub showcases diverse theatrical productions in a recently renovated space. Arrive early to enjoy the café bar before settling in for an evening of engaging performance art.
Marks Hall Gardens and Arboretum
8.4/10 (6 reviews)
Explore the lovely green spaces of Marks Hall Gardens and Arboretum and enjoy the golf courses in Coggeshall. Check out the spas and top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.
"Hotel ideally situated just off the A12. But there is no road noise that disturbed our sleep.
Room was nice and clean well stocked with tea and coffee, soap, shampoo, hairdryer and iron.
Breakfast was very good and kept us topped up for most of the day.
Although we didn't eat in the hotel, the menu had enough variety and was decently priced.
Bar had a decent selection of alcoholic beverages, and not too badly priced.
My only complaint would be that the towels in our room were a bit...
"The rooms. at the Essex Golf and Country Club are very nice and super clean. Be aware there is no in-room ac that we could find and just the smallest desk fan in the room but perhaps this is only an issue for 3 weeks a year!
We arrived late (9.30pm) and check was smooth, went to the room and unpacked and notice in the room directory suggested the bar was open until 10.30pm. We meander up only to be informed that last orders was at 10pm so we would only be permitted to purchase one drink. Then...
"Just a one night stop on business so no time to investigate in detail but very friendly and helpful staff and a very nice room. Not a big room but nicely furnished and equipped with a kettle, Nespresso coffee machine and a couple of pods, tv, iron and board, etc. comfortable bed.
Overall a nice comfortable night’s stay."
"Nice enough hotel but very tired and a bit out of the way. Moved here after one night in Premier Inn which was much nicer and better located. No breakfast option as far as we could tell."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.