Colchester on a Budget: Uncover Charming History

Discover Colchester's rich history without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

A Charming Day in Colchester

  • Begin at Colchester Castle, the largest Norman Keep in Europe. Explore the museum’s vast collection of Roman artifacts and learn about the town's fascinating history.
  • Take a stroll through the serene Castle Park, with its beautiful gardens and boating lake. Stop for a picnic and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
  • Head to Hollytrees Museum, a charming Georgian townhouse, to experience what life was like for the middle classes in Colchester in the early 1800s.
  • Visit Roman Circus Centre, a lesser-known but equally impressive archeological site. Discover the remains of a Roman chariot racing arena and the history of the ancient sport.
  • End the day with a hearty meal at The Minories, a traditional English pub with a welcoming atmosphere and affordable prices. Try their famous fish and chips, a British classic.
  • Colchester may be a small town, but it's packed with history and charm. Follow this itinerary and discover its unique character and fascinating heritage, without breaking the bank.

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.

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