3 Perfect Days in Colchester, UK

Discover the historic charm of Colchester, the oldest recorded town in Britain.

22 April 2023

A trip to Colchester, UK ensures a perfect blend of history and modernity. You can explore the well-preserved Roman ruins at the Colchester Castle and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the town. It's also an excellent base for exploring the scenic countryside and coastal towns of Essex.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Discovering Ancient Colchester

  • Begin your adventure with a hearty breakfast at the Green Room Café, known for their Instagram-worthy avocado toast and locally roasted coffee.
  • Take a stroll through history at the Colchester Castle Museum, home to an impressive collection of relics from the Roman era.
  • Wander through the picturesque streets of the town center and visit the Jumbo Water Tower, a quirky and iconic landmark of the town.
  • Take a break from sightseeing and grab lunch at the Fox and Barrel Pub, known for their traditional British pies and a vast selection of local ales.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful greenery of Castle Park, complete with a bandstand, duck pond, and stunning views of the castle ruins.
  • Enjoy dinner at the award-winning Wagamama restaurant, serving up mouth-watering Japanese-inspired cuisine.
  • Hotel recommendation: The George Hotel, located in the heart of the town and just a short walk from all the major attractions.
Day 2

Maritime Madness in Colchester

  • Fuel up with brunch at the trendy Curious Brew Café, known for their artisanal coffee and delicious homemade cakes.
  • Head to the scenic waterfront and visit the Colchester Arts Centre, housed in a beautifully restored church and showcasing a variety of live performances.
  • Take a river cruise along the picturesque River Colne, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a chance to spot local wildlife.
  • Enjoy a seafood feast at the Oyster Inn, offering fresh and delicious seafood options straight from the coast.
  • Visit the Firstsite Gallery, featuring cutting edge contemporary artwork and interactive exhibits.
  • End your day with cocktails at the swanky Skyroom Bar, providing panoramic views of the town and beyond.
  • Hotel recommendation: The North Hill Hotel, located in a quiet residential area just a short walk from the town center and waterfront.
Day 3

Escape to Nature

  • Start your day with breakfast at the cozy Honey and Harvey café, known for their homemade bread and locally sourced produce.
  • Visit the tranquil Abbey Gardens, a beautiful park featuring a variety of gardens, a butterfly house, and plenty of opportunities for peaceful strolls.
  • Take a short drive to the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, featuring stunning landscapes and quaint villages straight out of an English fairytale.
  • Stop for a delicious lunch at the Boathouse Restaurant, offering fresh and seasonal dishes with stunning views of Dedham Vale.
  • Spend the afternoon at the Colchester Zoo, home to over 270 species of animals and a popular family attraction.
  • Enjoy dinner at the atmospheric Three Wise Monkeys Pub, offering a variety of craft beers and hearty pub fare.
  • Hotel recommendation: The Angel Inn, located in the picturesque village of Stoke-by-Nayland and just a short drive from Colchester and Dedham Vale.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Colchester by plane is to fly into London Stansted Airport and then take the train to Colchester North station. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to your final destination in Colchester.

Car

Driving to Colchester is straightforward as it is located just off the A12 motorway. The journey from London takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Train

Travelling by train to Colchester is convenient as there are frequent train services from London Liverpool Street Station to Colchester North Station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and tickets can be purchased at the station or online.

Boat

There are no direct boat services to Colchester. However, you may consider taking a boat to Harwich, which is a seaside town located approximately 30 minutes away from Colchester by train or car.

Bus

The most cost-effective way to get to Colchester by bus is to take the National Express coach from London Victoria Coach Station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with tickets available for purchase at the station or online.

Destination

Colchester

Welcome to a charming town located in the midst of pastures and sheep, where the only thing more abundant than history is the amount of tea consumed daily by its inhabitants. Prepare to be amused and enlightened in Colchester!

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

Colchester on a Budget: Three Days of Fun

Colchester, located in the southeast part of England, is a great destination for travelers who are on a budget. The city boasts free museums including the Colchester Castle Museum and the Hollytrees Museum. In addition, visitors can explore the countryside and coastline with walks, bike rides, and picnics.

Colchester Chronicles: The Ultimate 5-Day Family Adventure

A family-friendly trip to Colchester, United Kingdom offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and entertainment. Explore the rich heritage of this ancient town by visiting the Colchester Castle, Britain's largest Norman keep, and touring the interactive exhibits at the Natural History Museum. Enjoy a fun-filled day outdoors at the award-winning Colchester Zoo, where kids can get up close and personal with a wide range of animals, or take a leisurely walk in Colchester Castle Park, a picturesque setting with beautiful gardens and a play area for children.

Colchester on a Budget: Uncover Charming History

A trip to Colchester on a limited budget will surely be an amazing experience with its rich history and culture. Tourists can explore the city's landmarks such as the Colchester Castle and Natural History Museum for free. Plenty of affordable accommodation options and local eateries are also available to make the journey budget-friendly.

5 Days of Fun in Budget-Friendly Colchester!

Colchester is a historic town in the United Kingdom that offers plenty of attractions for budget travelers. Visitors can explore the impressive Colchester Castle, visit the free Firstsite contemporary art gallery, and stroll through the picturesque Castle Park. Additionally, the town has a wide range of affordable accommodation and dining options.