Colchester

Introduction

Colchester, Britain's oldest recorded city, boasts over 2,000 years of rich history and modern attractions. Located in Essex, this former capital of Roman Britain offers a blend of ancient heritage and contemporary culture. Visitors can explore the imposing Colchester Castle, Europe's largest Norman Keep, and wander through the picturesque Castle Park. The city centre is home to numerous museums, including Hollytrees Museum and the Natural History Museum, as well as art galleries like Firstsite. Beyond its historical sites, Colchester offers a vibrant dining scene, eclectic bars and pubs, and the renowned Colchester Zoo. The surrounding area features beautiful landscapes, from Dedham Vale to Mersea Island, providing ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Interesting Facts about Colchester

• Colchester is the oldest recorded town in Britain, mentioned by Pliny the Elder who died in 79 CE.
• It served as the first capital of Roman Britain and was known as Camulodunum.
• The city boasts the oldest Roman wall in Britain, with about two-thirds still standing today.
• Colchester Castle, built in 1076, is the largest Norman keep in Europe.
• The town was a major centre for the woollen cloth industry in the 14th century, famous for its russets.
• Colchester has the only known Roman circus in Britain, discovered in 2004.
• The Dutch Quarter in Colchester town centre dates back to the Tudor period, named after Flemish weavers who settled there.
• Colchester was the first major target of Boudica's revolt against Roman rule in 60/61 CE.
• The town is home to Britain's largest diameter newel staircase, measuring 5 metres across, located in Colchester Castle.
• Colchester was famed for its oysters during the Tudor period.

History

Colchestern was the capital of Roman Britannia and was then known as Camulodunum. It could well be England's oldest city, dating back to the 5th century BCE, well before the Romans arrive in 43 CE. Cunobelin, King of the Britons, had settled in Colchester since 5 CE, which made it a target for the Roman invaders. The city flourished under Roman rule, with impressive structures such as temples, a theatre, and defensive walls being built. However, this prosperity was briefly interrupted in 60 CE when Boudicca, queen of the Iceni, led a revolt that resulted in the destruction of the town.

After the Romans departed, Colchester experienced periods of decline and resurgence. The Saxons and later the Vikings occupied the area until Edward the Elder reclaimed it in 917. The Norman Conquest brought significant changes, with the construction of Colchester Castle, Europe's largest Norman Keep, built upon the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius. Throughout the medieval period, Colchester remained a prominent town in Essex, known for its thriving wool trade and the production of 'Bays and Says' cloths.

The 16th century saw an influx of Flemish weavers, whose influence can still be seen in the Dutch Quarter of the city. Colchester played a notable role in the English Civil War, enduring a lengthy siege in 1648. Despite such turbulent times, the town continued to prosper through the centuries, with its rich heritage now showcased in numerous museums and historical sites. In November 2022, Colchester's historical significance was further recognised when it was granted city status as part of Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Main Attractions

Colchester Castle

Colchester's main sight is its castle, which boasts the biggest dungeon tower in Europe. William the Conqueror started its construction in 1076 on the remains of the Roman Temple of Claudius, and the last stone was laid in 1125. The castle was used as a prison in the 14th century.

One of the remarkable aspects of this ancient fortress is the surviving Roman vaults with its mosaics and statues.

Colchester Castle is a significant historical site located in the heart of Colchester, Essex. It was constructed in the late 11th century, beginning around 1076, on the orders of William the Conqueror. The castle was built over the remains of the Roman Temple of Claudius, which had been a prominent structure in Roman Britain's first capital.

The castle is renowned for being the largest Norman keep in Europe, measuring 46 by 33.5 metres. Its design shares similarities with the White Tower in London, and it features a notable newel staircase and pronounced corner turrets. The keep's original height is debated, with theories suggesting it may have had two to four storeys.

Colchester Castle served as a royal fortress during the Norman period. It saw significant action in 1216 when King John besieged it to retake it from French forces. Later, it was used as a prison, notably during the English Civil War and in the 17th century when Matthew Hopkins, the Witchfinder General, interrogated alleged witches there.

Today, Colchester Castle houses a museum showcasing archaeological collections spanning 2,500 years of history. The museum offers interactive exhibits, guided tours, and access to the Roman vaults beneath the castle. Visitors can explore the castle's chapel, well, and prison cells, gaining insight into its rich past.

Located within Castle Park, the castle is easily accessible by public transport. The park itself offers picnic areas and is a pleasant place for a stroll. The castle provides disabled access and caters to coach parties. Admission prices vary, with discounts available for groups and concessions.

Colchester Zoo

Colchester Zoo is a popular zoological garden that has been in operation since 1963. The zoo spans 60 acres of parkland and lakes, offering a diverse range of habitats for its visitors to explore.

Animal Exhibits

Colchester Zoo is home to over 150 species of animals, including big cats, primates, birds, invertebrates, and fish. Some of the notable exhibits include:

• Edge of Africa: Features cheetahs, spotted hyenas, mandrills, and other African species.
• Wilds of Asia: Showcases animals from the Asian continent.
• Dragons of Komodo: Houses Komodo dragons in a habitat designed to mimic their natural environment.
• Elephant Kingdom: Provides a spacious home for African elephants with unique night stalls and indoor quarters.
• Butterfly Glade: A walk-through exhibit featuring various butterfly species and plants.
• Australian Rainbows: An aviary where visitors can interact with rainbow lorikeets.

Facilities and Activities

The zoo offers daily animal encounters, allowing visitors to watch feeding sessions or training exercises. There are also opportunities to hand-feed elephants and giraffes, though these activities require pre-booking and incur an additional cost. Colchester Zoo features undercover areas, making it suitable for visits on rainy days. The zoo also offers a variety of food and drink options, as well as a gift shop.

Practical Information

Colchester Zoo is open daily from 9:30 AM, with closing times varying depending on the season. The zoo provides a large free car park with disabled parking spaces near the entrance. Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the zoo.

Top Museums

Historical Museums

Colchester Castle Museum

Colchester Castle Museum, the crown jewel of the town's cultural offerings, is housed in the largest Norman Keep in Europe. Built on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius, this imposing structure is a testament to Colchester's rich history spanning over two millennia.

The museum offers a captivating journey through 2,500 years of history, featuring archaeological collections of international importance. Visitors can explore interactive displays, including a large-scale 'son et lumière' projection that brings the castle's history to life. The museum's prized exhibits include the Colchester Vase, a remarkable example of Romano-British glasswork, and the Fenwick Treasure, a hoard of Roman jewellery and coins discovered in 2014.

Engaging hands-on activities are a highlight, allowing visitors to try their hand at building a Norman archway or steering a Roman chariot. The castle's extensive grounds also offer a perfect spot for picnics and leisurely walks.

Hollytrees Museum

Set in the picturesque Castle Park, Hollytrees Museum occupies an elegant Georgian town house dating from 1718. This charming social history museum offers a window into three centuries of Colchester's past through its fascinating collection of toys, costumes, clocks, and decorative arts.

The museum's period rooms are meticulously recreated to reflect different eras, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience how families lived in Colchester through the ages. From Victorian parlours to 1950s living rooms, each space tells a unique story of domestic life in the town.

Natural History Museums

Natural History Museum

Housed in the former All Saints Church, a beautiful example of Victorian Gothic architecture, Colchester's Natural History Museum is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts. The museum focuses on local wildlife habitats, biodiversity, and the pressing issue of climate change.

Visitors can explore extensive natural history collections with a particular emphasis on Britain and north-east Essex. The museum features impressive displays of local geology, including fossils and minerals, as well as exhibits on native flora and fauna. Interactive elements and educational programmes make this an excellent destination for families and school groups.

Art Galleries

Firstsite

Firstsite, Colchester's contemporary visual arts gallery, is impossible to miss with its striking golden crescent-shaped building designed by Rafael Vinoly Architects. This modern institution serves as both a gallery and community hub, showcasing a wide variety of impressive artworks from internationally recognised artists.

The gallery's ever-changing exhibitions feature contemporary art in various media, from paintings and sculptures to digital installations and performance art. Firstsite also hosts film screenings, workshops, and community events, making it a vibrant centre for cultural engagement in Colchester.

The Minories Galleries

As Colchester's oldest art gallery, The Minories holds a special place in the town's cultural landscape. Housed in a listed Georgian building, this gallery is supported by the Victor Batte-Lay Foundation and the 'Friends of The Minories'.

The Minories showcases a mix of contemporary and historical art, with a focus on supporting local and emerging artists. Its charming walled garden, complete with sculptures, offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of the town.

Archaeological Sites

Roman Circus Visitor Centre

Discovered in 2004, the Roman Circus is a unique archaeological site representing the only known Roman circus in Britain. The visitor centre provides fascinating information about this monumental structure, which may have seated up to 8,000 spectators and was used for chariot racing and other spectator sports.

Through interactive displays and guided tours, visitors can learn about the construction of the circus, the excitement of Roman chariot racing, and the daily life of Roman Colchester (then known as Camulodunum).

Specialised Museums

Tymperleys Clock Museum

Housed in a beautiful Tudor merchant's house, Tymperleys Clock Museum is dedicated to the history of timekeeping. The museum showcases an impressive collection of clocks and watches, many of which were made in Colchester and the surrounding area.

Visitors can explore the evolution of timekeeping technology, from sundials and water clocks to intricate mechanical timepieces. The museum also offers insights into the lives of local clockmakers and the importance of accurate timekeeping in the development of modern society.

Colchester and Ipswich Museums Collection Centre

While not always open to the public, the Colchester and Ipswich Museums Collection Centre occasionally offers behind-the-scenes tours. This facility houses thousands of artefacts not currently on display in the town's museums, including archaeological finds, natural history specimens, and works of art.

These tours provide a unique opportunity to see how museum collections are stored and conserved, offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of museum curation and conservation.

This diverse array of museums in Colchester offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the town's rich history, from its ancient Roman roots to its contemporary art scene. Whether you're interested in archaeology, natural history, fine art, or social history, Colchester's museums provide engaging and educational experiences for visitors of all ages.

Local Cuisine

The city is renowned for its Colchester oysters, prized worldwide for their distinctive flavour and often enjoyed fresh from the coast. Fish and chips remain a popular seaside staple, typically served crispy and golden with a splash of malt vinegar. For those seeking traditional fare, the Sunday roast is a must-try, featuring succulent roasted meats accompanied by crispy potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and rich gravy. Visitors can also savour jellied eels, an East End delicacy best enjoyed with a sprinkle of vinegar and pepper. To complement these dishes, sample the local Essex cider, crafted from the region's bountiful apple orchards. For a sweet finish, indulge in a proper cream tea, complete with freshly baked scones, clotted cream, and Tiptree jam, a local speciality produced by the renowned Wilkin & Sons for over a century.

Shopping

Colchester's city centre features several shopping areas, including Lion Walk Shopping Centre, Culver Square, and St. Johns Walk Shopping Centre, where visitors can find popular retailers such as M&S, Primark, and TK Maxx. For those seeking unique items, the historic South Lanes and Trinity Street are home to independent shops, vintage stores, and quirky cafes. Colchester Market, held weekly on Fridays and Saturdays, offers fresh produce and local goods. The city also has out-of-town options like Tollgate Shopping, which provides ample free parking and large outlets of well-known brands. With its mix of modern retail spaces and charming historic lanes, Colchester caters to a wide range of shopping preferences.

Nature in and around Colchester

Colchester and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of natural attractions for visitors to explore. The city is home to Castle Park, an expansive green space in the heart of Colchester, perfect for leisurely walks and picnics. Just outside the city, nature enthusiasts can visit Abberton Reservoir and Fingringhoe Wick Nature Discovery Park, both managed by Essex Wildlife Trust and excellent for bird-watching and nature trails. The nearby Dedham Vale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, showcases the picturesque countryside that inspired artist John Constable. For coastal experiences, Mersea Island offers beaches and wild stretches of coastline, ideal for refreshing walks and enjoying local seafood. The internationally renowned Beth Chatto Gardens provides a beautifully curated natural space for garden enthusiasts. Those interested in wildlife can visit Colchester Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals and conservation programmes. Additionally, High Woods Country Park and several local nature reserves managed by Colchester Council offer further opportunities for outdoor activities and nature appreciation.

Getting There & Around

Colchester is easily accessible by various modes of transport. The city is well-connected by rail, with regular trains from London Liverpool Street, Norwich, and coastal towns like Clacton-on-Sea and Walton-on-the-Naze. Colchester has three railway stations: Colchester (also known as Colchester North), Colchester Town, and Hythe. For those travelling by coach, National Express services link Colchester to London Victoria Coach Station and Stansted Airport. Drivers can reach the city via the A12, which connects to the M25, or the A14, which links to the M1/M6. A convenient Park and Ride service is available off Junction 28 of the A12, offering quick access to the city centre. Cyclists will find Colchester part of the National Cycle Network, with routes connecting to London, Harwich, and even the Netherlands. For those flying in, Stansted Airport is just 50 minutes away by road, with regular bus services to Colchester.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Colchester is during the summer months of July and August. These months offer the warmest temperatures, with average highs reaching 22°C, providing ideal conditions for exploring the city's rich history and outdoor attractions. However, this period also coincides with peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. For a more balanced experience, consider visiting in May, June, or September when the weather is still pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 20°C, and tourist numbers are slightly lower. These months offer a perfect blend of comfortable weather and fewer visitors, allowing you to enjoy Colchester's Roman heritage, Castle Park, and nearby coastal areas without the summer rush. Keep in mind that rainfall is fairly consistent throughout the year in Colchester, so it's wise to pack a brolly regardless of when you choose to visit.