Coggeshall Museum: A Window into Historic Essex Life
Discover the rich heritage of Coggeshall through its charming volunteer-run museum showcasing local history, crafts, and community stories.
Coggeshall Museum, located in the picturesque village of Coggeshall, Essex, offers a rich glimpse into local history through its extensive archives, exhibits, and volunteer-led presentations. Housed in a charming historic building on Stoneham Street, the museum celebrates the town's heritage, including its wool trade, notable residents, and unique crafts such as lace making. Open primarily on Sundays and select days, it provides a welcoming space for family history research and cultural exploration.
A brief summary to Coggeshall Museum
- Stoneham St, Colchester, Coggeshall, CO6 1UH, GB
- +441376563003
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Sundays or Bank Holiday Mondays for regular opening hours and free parking nearby.
- Explore the family history archives if you have ancestral ties to the Coggeshall area.
- Ask volunteers about guided walks around the historic town to enrich your visit.
- Plan your visit during summer Saturdays when the museum opens for longer hours.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Bus
Take a train to Colchester station, approximately 25 minutes from London Liverpool Street. From Colchester, catch a local bus towards Coggeshall; the bus journey takes about 30 minutes. Note that bus services are limited on Sundays and public holidays, so check schedules in advance.
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Car
Driving from central Colchester to Coggeshall Museum takes around 20 minutes via the A120. Free parking is available near the museum on Sundays. Parking spaces can be limited on busy days, so arriving early is recommended.
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Walking
If staying in Coggeshall village, the museum is a 10-15 minute walk from the town center along Stoneham Street. The route is on paved, flat terrain and accessible for most visitors.
Coggeshall Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Coggeshall Museum
Historic Roots and Community Legacy
Coggeshall Museum is nestled in the heart of the historic market town of Coggeshall, Essex. This small but captivating museum preserves the rich heritage of a town that prospered through the wool trade and a variety of traditional industries. The museum’s collections include artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of Coggeshall’s development from medieval times to the present day. Visitors can explore the lives of remarkable local figures and the trades that shaped the community.Exhibits and Collections Highlighting Local Life
The museum showcases a diverse range of exhibits, including displays on Coggeshall lace making—a craft for which the town is renowned. Its archives hold valuable family history resources, trade directories, and historical publications that attract researchers and genealogists. The museum also features a Roll of Honour commemorating local men who served in the World Wars, adding a poignant historical dimension.Volunteer Spirit and Visitor Engagement
Operated largely by dedicated volunteers, Coggeshall Museum offers an intimate and personal visitor experience. The staff’s enthusiasm and knowledge enrich the exhibits, providing insightful context and stories behind the displays. The museum encourages community involvement and offers guided walks around the town to deepen understanding of Coggeshall’s heritage.Setting and Atmosphere
Housed in a quaint building on Stoneham Street, the museum exudes a welcoming and tranquil atmosphere. Its location in a charming village setting enhances the experience, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the ambience of historic Essex. Nearby free parking on Sundays adds convenience for visitors.Access and Opening Times
Coggeshall Museum is open mainly on Sundays from 2:00pm to 4:30pm and on Bank Holiday Mondays, with additional Saturday openings during summer months. The limited opening hours reflect its volunteer-run nature but make visits special and focused. Admission is free, though donations are appreciated, supporting the museum’s ongoing preservation efforts.Research and Educational Opportunities
Beyond exhibits, the museum serves as a valuable resource for family history researchers, offering access to archives and a search room with extensive materials. It also provides educational programs and private group visits by arrangement, fostering a deeper connection to the local heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Balkerne Gate
14.5 km
Explore Balkerne Gate, Britain's largest surviving Roman gateway, a monumental symbol of Colchester’s ancient Roman heritage and architectural mastery.
Roman Theatre
15.0 km
Ancient Roman amphitheatre where 3,000 spectators once gathered, now marked by darker paving in Colchester's historic streets.
Middle Mill Weir
15.0 km
Historic Middle Mill Weir on the River Colne, a testament to Colchester’s water-powered industrial heritage and enduring community spirit.
Natural History Museum
15.2 km
Discover Colchester’s natural past and present in a charming historic church turned family-friendly museum with free entry and engaging exhibits.
Colchester War Memorial
15.2 km
A dignified tribute in the heart of Colchester honoring the sacrifice and service of its wartime heroes.
Finchingfield Post Mill
19.3 km
Discover Essex’s oldest post mill, a charming 18th-century landmark overlooking the picturesque village of Finchingfield.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
22.4 km
The only complete Chain Home radar tower in the UK, a towering symbol of WWII air defence and Cold War innovation in Great Baddow.
Nigel’s Gate
32.1 km
Discover Nigel’s Gate, a tranquil historic landmark in Little Henham blending rural charm with timeless English heritage.
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
35.4 km
Explore the earliest princely Anglo-Saxon burial in England, revealing a royal Christian tomb rich with ancient treasures and history.
Audley End House and Gardens
35.9 km
Explore the grand Audley End House and its stunning gardens, a historical gem in Saffron Walden showcasing England's heritage and architectural beauty.
Hadleigh Park
36.1 km
Experience the beauty and recreation of Hadleigh Park, a country park with BMX tracks, lakes, and historical landmarks, perfect for all ages.
Southend Central Museum & Planetarium
36.7 km
Discover local history and celestial wonders at Southend Central Museum & Planetarium, a must-visit attraction in Southend-on-Sea.
Hadleigh Castle
36.8 km
Discover Hadleigh Castle, a historical gem in Essex with breathtaking views and rich heritage, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker
37.0 km
Explore the Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker, a fascinating museum that reveals the hidden history of Cold War Britain and its civil defense efforts.
Wayfinding Stone
37.0 km
Explore the Wayfinding Stone in Southend-on-Sea, a unique monument that symbolizes navigation and adventure, connecting visitors to local heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Paycocke's House and Garden
0.2 km
Discover the exquisite Tudor craftsmanship and tranquil Arts and Crafts garden of Paycocke's House, a jewel of England’s wool trade heritage.
National Trust - Grange Barn
0.5 km
Explore one of Europe's oldest timber-framed barns, a medieval marvel and vibrant cultural hub nestled in historic Coggeshall.
Markshall Estate
2.6 km
Historic Markshall Estate: A millennium of heritage, nature, and stewardship in Essex’s tranquil gardens and arboretum.
Cressing Temple Barns
6.3 km
Explore 13th-century Templar barns and a Tudor walled garden in the Essex countryside – a peaceful, historic escape with free public access on non-event days.
East Anglian Railway Museum
7.8 km
Explore over 10 acres of railway heritage with vintage locomotives, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly events near Colchester.
Tiptree Heath
8.6 km
Explore Essex’s largest lowland heathland, home to rare heathers, diverse wildlife, and traditional grazing in a peaceful natural sanctuary.
The Tiptree Jam Museum
8.7 km
Discover the rich heritage of Tiptree jams with a museum tour, traditional tea room delights, and a shop full of authentic preserves in charming Essex.
Braintree & Bocking Public Gardens
9.1 km
Discover peaceful walks, diverse trees, family fun, and a welcoming café in Braintree’s cherished green oasis.
Layer Marney Tower Weddings
9.5 km
Historic Tudor elegance meets picturesque gardens and modern amenities at Essex’s Layer Marney Tower, a unique wedding venue with timeless charm.
Colchester Zoo
10.3 km
Explore 60 acres of diverse wildlife habitats and immersive animal encounters at Colchester Zoo, a leading conservation and family attraction in Essex.
Iron Latch
10.7 km
A peaceful Essex Wildlife Trust reserve near Colchester, offering tranquil woodland walks and rich wildlife in a compact natural setting.
Monastery of Saint John the Baptist, Essex
10.8 km
A tranquil Orthodox monastic sanctuary in Essex, blending ancient Athonite spirituality with historic English heritage.
The Rayleigh Arms
10.9 km
A warm, traditional Essex gastropub in Terling serving hearty classics and fostering community spirit.
Hillhouse Wood
11.1 km
Discover peaceful trails, vibrant bluebells, and diverse wildlife in Hillhouse Wood, a cherished natural retreat near Colchester.
Great Notley Country Park
11.5 km
Explore Essex’s largest play trail, thrilling Sky Ropes, and serene natural beauty at Great Notley Country Park’s 100-acre family-friendly haven.
Essential places to dine
The Barn Brasserie, Great Tey
4.8 km
Historic 16th-century barn meets modern British dining in a charming Essex countryside setting with warm hospitality and versatile event spaces.
Harvester Stanway Colchester
10.2 km
Casual family-friendly British bar & grill in Colchester offering fresh, flavorful meals from breakfast to dinner in a relaxed setting.
The Square & Compasses
12.1 km
A charming Essex countryside gastropub blending rustic warmth with refined British cuisine and local ales.
Castle - Great Leighs
13.3 km
A charming and cozy English village pub in Great Leighs serving freshly cooked, reasonably priced meals with friendly service and warm ambiance.
Galvin Green Man
17.2 km
Historic 14th-century gastropub near Chelmsford offering award-winning seasonal British cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
Rose & Crown - Great Waltham
17.6 km
Essex village gastro pub where seasonal menus and warm hospitality create memorable dining moments.
Pig & Truffle
19.3 km
Historic charm meets modern British cuisine in a cozy village setting, delivering refined flavors and warm hospitality at Pig & Truffle.
Pig & Whistle Restaurant
20.6 km
Charming 16th-century countryside restaurant in Chelmsford offering award-winning British cuisine and a cosy, intimate dining experience.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
21.0 km
A vibrant British restaurant in Chelmsford’s town centre, serving all-day meals, seasonal specials, and welcoming guests with a lively atmosphere.
Cosy Club
21.1 km
Experience timeless art deco charm and inclusive British dining at Cosy Club Chelmsford, open all day for every occasion.
Fête at Grays Brewery Yard
21.2 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Acanteen
21.3 km
Chelmsford’s all-day bar, restaurant and live music venue – brunch, pizza, cocktails and events in a buzzing city-centre setting.
Samphire Restaurant @ The County Hotel
21.4 km
Award-winning British cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish, family-friendly Chelmsford setting.
Russells Restaurant
21.5 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
The New London
21.9 km
Upscale Chelmsford restaurant offering scratch-made dishes, attentive service, and a cozy contemporary lounge atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Love Local Essex & Suffolk
7.7 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures celebrating the rich heritage and creativity of Essex and Suffolk at this charming Copford gift shop.
George Yard Shopping Centre
9.3 km
A vibrant pedestrianised shopping hub in Braintree offering diverse stores and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Bestdays Vintage
14.8 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion and eclectic music treasures in a cozy, welcoming Colchester shop with a personal touch.
Rocks & Rubies
15.1 km
Discover rare crystals, artisan gifts, and spiritual treasures in the heart of historic Colchester.
The Emporium Maldon
15.7 km
A beloved family-run gift and garden shop in Maldon’s historic High Street, renowned for variety, community spirit, and local charm.
Riverside Retail Park
20.5 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
The Curiosity Shop
22.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Great Dunmow at The Curiosity Shop, a charming boutique with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Quirky Old Stuff
26.9 km
Discover a whimsical world of antiques and vintage curiosities in Manningtree’s most eclectic shop, where every item tells a story.
The Lovely Shop
28.8 km
Explore the unique offerings of The Lovely Shop in Burnham-on-Crouch, where local craftsmanship meets delightful gift ideas.
Emporium on the Quay
29.0 km
Discover unique local crafts and gifts in a charming riverside boutique on Burnham-on-Crouch’s scenic Quay.
The Factory Shops
32.2 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
The Emporium
35.0 km
Discover unique gifts, exquisite candles, and enchanting perfumes at The Emporium in Holland-on-Sea’s charming Kings Avenue.
Gifts for All Home Decor
35.8 km
Discover unique, stylish home decor and gifts at Gifts for All Home Decor, Hadleigh’s charming boutique with quality and affordability.
The Happy Sole
36.0 km
Discover the charm of Westcliff-on-Sea at The Happy Sole, your go-to shop for unique gifts and local treasures.
La Luna Boutique
36.1 km
Discover unique bohemian fashion with a vintage rock ’n’ roll edge at La Luna Boutique in Leigh-on-Sea.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Three Wise Monkeys
15.0 km
A vibrant multi-floor pub in Colchester offering craft beers, hearty smokehouse food, and lively events in a unique historic setting.
The Queen Victoria Public House
16.1 km
Historic British pub in Maldon offering freshly prepared fare, an extensive wine list, and warm, attentive service in a charming setting.
Voodoo Keller Bar
21.1 km
Discover Chelmsford’s underground cellar bar with 12 craft taps, lively rock vibes, and a cosy atmosphere perfect for beer lovers and night owls.
Boom Battle Bar Chelmsford
21.1 km
Chelmsford’s premier games bar blending axe throwing, shuffleboard, street food, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out.
Slug & Lettuce - Chelmsford
21.2 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Chelmsford offering creative drinks, stylish interiors, and a lively social atmosphere from brunch to late night.
The Ale House
21.3 km
Chelmsford’s vibrant craft beer bar where you can bring your own food and enjoy a welcoming, lively atmosphere with expert service.
The Bootmaker
21.3 km
Historic Chelmsford pub and cocktail bar blending tradition with modern social dining and handcrafted drinks.
Be At One - Chelmsford
21.4 km
Discover over 100 cocktails and vibrant nightlife at Be At One Chelmsford, featuring rooftop terrace and unbeatable happy hour deals.
The best bar none mobile bar hire
21.4 km
Family-run mobile bar hire in Southminster, Essex, delivering bespoke drinks and vibrant atmospheres for weddings and events across the UK.
The Woolpack
21.5 km
A vibrant Victorian pub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with lively events, great ales, and hearty American-British fare.
The Orange Tree
21.9 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Fox & Hounds
23.1 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
The Fox and Goose
27.3 km
A modern gastropub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with seasonal British cuisine and inviting garden dining.
The Bear Inn - Stock
28.6 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
The Leather Bottle Blackmore
32.1 km
A charming gastropub in Blackmore blending quirky decor, seasonal British cuisine, and a welcoming village atmosphere all year round.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
14.5 km
Experience Colchester’s lively nightlife with Rubix Bar & Nightclub’s energetic music, vibrant dance floor, and welcoming social scene every weekend night.
Trilogy Nightclub
14.9 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
Popworld - Chelmsford
21.1 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
21.3 km
A large, lively nightclub in Chelmsford known for affordable drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and a mix of praise and controversy around its staff and music.
Club Tantalize
21.4 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
The Lounge Jazz Club
33.2 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
36.6 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, top DJs, and a lively atmosphere at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Just Vibez
37.0 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
The Moonraker Club
37.2 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Westcliff-on-Sea with top DJs, a powerful sound system, and a lively social scene for unforgettable nights out.
The Loft Basildon
37.2 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Foundation
37.5 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Sunrooms2
37.6 km
Experience Southend-on-Sea’s dynamic nightlife at Sunrooms², where live music and DJ-driven parties keep the energy alive until the early hours.
MYST Club
37.7 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
The Club
38.1 km
Experience Ipswich’s vibrant nightlife at The Club, where music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere come alive in the city centre.
Supper Club
38.2 km
Lively nightclub in Ipswich offering great drinks, music, and a vibrant social scene from afternoon until early morning.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family History
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
