Explore the Majestic Colchester Castle: A Journey Through History
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Colchester Castle, a must-visit museum and landmark in the heart of Castle Park.
Colchester Castle, a remarkable landmark nestled in Castle Park, invites tourists to uncover its rich history and stunning architecture. This museum and castle combo offers engaging exhibits and beautiful parkland for a perfect day out.
A brief summary to Colchester Castle
- Castle Park, Colchester, CO1 1TJ, GB
- +441206282939
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid larger crowds.
- Plan to spend at least two hours to fully explore the exhibits and grounds.
- Check the schedule for special events or guided tours for a more immersive experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the castle's towers.
- Enjoy a leisurely walk in Castle Park before or after your visit to the castle.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, set your GPS to 'Castle Park, Colchester CO1 1TJ'. From the A12, take the exit towards Colchester and follow signs for the town centre. Use the A134 and then head onto the B1022 to reach Castle Park. There are several parking options nearby, including the nearby NCP Car Park (charges apply), which is just a short walk from the castle.
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Train
To reach Colchester Castle by train, take a train to Colchester railway station. From London Liverpool Street, the journey typically takes around 50 minutes. Upon arrival at Colchester station, exit the station and head towards the bus stop for the number 61 or 62 bus, which will take you directly to the town centre. Get off at the 'Castle Park' stop, and the castle is a short walk from there.
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Bus
If you're traveling by bus, you can catch local services from various parts of Essex to Colchester. The town has frequent bus services, and you can check the local bus schedules for routes that stop near Castle Park. Look for buses that say 'Colchester Town Centre' as they will bring you close to Colchester Castle. Make sure to check the bus fare, which generally ranges from £2 to £5 depending on your starting point.
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Walking
If you're already in Colchester town centre, walking to Colchester Castle is straightforward. From the High Street, head towards the Castle Park entrance, which is well-signposted. The walk should take around 15 minutes and will take you through some of Colchester's historic streets.
Discover more about Colchester Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Colchester War Memorial
0.1 km
A dignified tribute in the heart of Colchester honoring the sacrifice and service of its wartime heroes.
Roman Theatre
0.1 km
Ancient Roman amphitheatre where 3,000 spectators once gathered, now marked by darker paving in Colchester's historic streets.
Natural History Museum
0.1 km
Discover Colchester’s natural past and present in a charming historic church turned family-friendly museum with free entry and engaging exhibits.
Middle Mill Weir
0.4 km
Historic Middle Mill Weir on the River Colne, a testament to Colchester’s water-powered industrial heritage and enduring community spirit.
Balkerne Gate
0.6 km
Explore Balkerne Gate, Britain's largest surviving Roman gateway, a monumental symbol of Colchester’s ancient Roman heritage and architectural mastery.
Finchingfield Post Mill
32.1 km
Discover Essex’s oldest post mill, a charming 18th-century landmark overlooking the picturesque village of Finchingfield.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
34.5 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.
National Trust - Sutton Hoo
37.6 km
Explore Sutton Hoo, an iconic archaeological site revealing the secrets of the Anglo-Saxon era in stunning natural surroundings.
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
39.8 km
Explore the earliest princely Anglo-Saxon burial in England, revealing a royal Christian tomb rich with ancient treasures and history.
Southchurch Hall
41.1 km
Explore the historical elegance and serene gardens of Southchurch Hall, a captivating museum in Southend-on-Sea that reveals the region's rich heritage.
Wayfinding Stone
41.1 km
Explore the Wayfinding Stone in Southend-on-Sea, a unique monument that symbolizes navigation and adventure, connecting visitors to local heritage.
Southchurch Park
41.4 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Southchurch Park, a serene escape in Southend-on-Sea perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks.
Sealife Adventure
41.7 km
Explore the captivating marine life at Sealife Adventure, Southend-on-Sea's premier aquarium, featuring over 40 exhibits and interactive experiences.
Southend-on-Sea Seafront
41.8 km
Discover the magic of Southend-on-Sea Seafront, where tradition meets seaside fun, perfect for family outings and creating lasting memories.
Southend Pier and Railway
41.8 km
Discover the iconic Southend Pier and Railway, a historic landmark offering breathtaking views, delightful train rides, and family-friendly activities.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Dutch Quarter
0.3 km
Explore Colchester’s Dutch Quarter, a charming enclave of historic timber-framed houses and Flemish weaving heritage nestled in Britain’s oldest town.
Lion Walk Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Colchester’s vibrant shopping heart blending historic charm with high street brands and diverse dining experiences.
English Heritage - St Botolph's Priory
0.4 km
Explore St Botolph's Priory in Colchester, where history, architecture, and tranquility converge in a breathtaking heritage site.
Jumbo Water Tower
0.6 km
Colchester’s iconic Victorian water tower, once vital for clean water and firefighting, now a symbol of civic pride and heritage revival.
St John's Abbey Gate
0.6 km
Explore the beautifully preserved 15th-century gatehouse that stands as the last remnant of Colchester’s historic Benedictine St John’s Abbey.
Colchester Arts Centre
0.6 km
Experience vibrant live performances and community spirit at Colchester Arts Centre, the cultural heart of historic Colchester.
National Trust - Bourne Mill
1.6 km
Step back in time at Bourne Mill, a picturesque Elizabethan watermill blending historic charm with tranquil gardens in the heart of Colchester.
High Woods Country Park
2.0 km
Explore 150 hectares of ancient woodland, lakes, and wildflower meadows in Colchester’s award-winning High Woods Country Park.
Lexden Earthworks & Bluebottle Grove
2.7 km
Explore ancient Iron Age earthworks and tranquil woodlands rich with history and seasonal bluebells in Colchester’s historic Lexden Park.
Iron Latch
4.7 km
A peaceful Essex Wildlife Trust reserve near Colchester, offering tranquil woodland walks and rich wildlife in a compact natural setting.
Roman River Valley
5.5 km
A serene 17.8-hectare wetland reserve with ancient woodland and rare plants along the picturesque Roman River in Essex.
Colchester Zoo
5.6 km
Explore 60 acres of diverse wildlife habitats and immersive animal encounters at Colchester Zoo, a leading conservation and family attraction in Essex.
Hillhouse Wood
5.9 km
Discover peaceful trails, vibrant bluebells, and diverse wildlife in Hillhouse Wood, a cherished natural retreat near Colchester.
Essex Wildlife Trust Fingringhoe Wick Nature Discovery Park
7.8 km
Discover vibrant habitats and rich wildlife at Fingringhoe Wick, a transformed nature reserve with stunning estuary views near Colchester.
Wyvernwood
9.0 km
Step into Wyvernwood’s magical kingdom for a family adventure filled with dragons, fairies, and enchanting play in Essex’s captivating outdoor theme park.
Essential places to dine
Harvester Stanway Colchester
4.9 km
Casual family-friendly British bar & grill in Colchester offering fresh, flavorful meals from breakfast to dinner in a relaxed setting.
Talbooth Restaurant
9.2 km
Award-winning Modern British fine dining on the River Stour, where 19th-century charm meets contemporary culinary excellence.
The Barn Brasserie, Great Tey
10.6 km
Historic 16th-century barn meets modern British dining in a charming Essex countryside setting with warm hospitality and versatile event spaces.
Scutchers
25.1 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic village of Long Melford, blending exceptional cuisine with warm, polished service.
The Eaterie @ the Salthouse Harbour Hotel
25.3 km
Modern British dining with fresh local seafood and stunning marina views at Ipswich’s stylish Salthouse Harbour Hotel.
The Great House Hotel and Restaurant
25.4 km
Historic elegance and exquisite dining converge in the heart of Lavenham’s medieval Market Place.
The Square & Compasses
26.7 km
A charming Essex countryside gastropub blending rustic warmth with refined British cuisine and local ales.
Castle - Great Leighs
28.2 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
32.0 km
Historic 14th-century gastropub near Chelmsford offering award-winning seasonal British cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
Rose & Crown - Great Waltham
32.1 km
Essex village gastro pub where seasonal menus and warm hospitality create memorable dining moments.
Vita Bella
33.1 km
Authentic Italian cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming village setting near Chelmsford.
Russells Restaurant
33.7 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
34.1 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
34.2 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
34.2 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rocks & Rubies
0.1 km
Discover rare crystals, artisan gifts, and spiritual treasures in the heart of historic Colchester.
Bestdays Vintage
0.4 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion and eclectic music treasures in a cozy, welcoming Colchester shop with a personal touch.
Love Local Essex & Suffolk
7.4 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures celebrating the rich heritage and creativity of Essex and Suffolk at this charming Copford gift shop.
Quirky Old Stuff
12.3 km
Discover a whimsical world of antiques and vintage curiosities in Manningtree’s most eclectic shop, where every item tells a story.
The Emporium
21.5 km
Discover unique gifts, exquisite candles, and enchanting perfumes at The Emporium in Holland-on-Sea’s charming Kings Avenue.
The Emporium Maldon
23.4 km
A beloved family-run gift and garden shop in Maldon’s historic High Street, renowned for variety, community spirit, and local charm.
George Yard Shopping Centre
24.3 km
A vibrant pedestrianised shopping hub in Braintree offering diverse stores and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Essential Vintage
25.4 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion classics in the heart of Ipswich’s charming Eagle Street.
Heady's Hobbies & Gifts
25.7 km
Discover creativity and charm at Heady's Hobbies & Gifts, Walton on the Naze’s family-run craft shop with unique handmade treasures and inspiring workshops.
The Lovely Shop
30.0 km
Explore the unique offerings of The Lovely Shop in Burnham-on-Crouch, where local craftsmanship meets delightful gift ideas.
Emporium on the Quay
30.1 km
Discover unique local crafts and gifts in a charming riverside boutique on Burnham-on-Crouch’s scenic Quay.
Riverside Retail Park
33.7 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
The Curiosity Shop
37.2 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.
The Factory Shops
39.5 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
Steptoe and Mum / Antique and Retro Boutique / With House Clearance Service
40.6 km
A cluttered, character-filled secondhand boutique in Southend-on-Sea, packed with vintage furniture, retro homewares, and quirky collectables.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Three Wise Monkeys
0.1 km
A vibrant multi-floor pub in Colchester offering craft beers, hearty smokehouse food, and lively events in a unique historic setting.
The best bar none mobile bar hire
23.3 km
Family-run mobile bar hire in Southminster, Essex, delivering bespoke drinks and vibrant atmospheres for weddings and events across the UK.
The Queen Victoria Public House
24.3 km
Historic British pub in Maldon offering freshly prepared fare, an extensive wine list, and warm, attentive service in a charming setting.
Boom Battle Bar Chelmsford
34.2 km
Chelmsford’s premier games bar blending axe throwing, shuffleboard, street food, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out.
Slug & Lettuce - Chelmsford
34.2 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Chelmsford offering creative drinks, stylish interiors, and a lively social atmosphere from brunch to late night.
Voodoo Keller Bar
34.2 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.
The Bootmaker
34.4 km
Historic Chelmsford pub and cocktail bar blending tradition with modern social dining and handcrafted drinks.
Be At One - Chelmsford
34.4 km
Discover over 100 cocktails and vibrant nightlife at Be At One Chelmsford, featuring rooftop terrace and unbeatable happy hour deals.
The Woolpack
34.5 km
A vibrant Victorian pub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with lively events, great ales, and hearty American-British fare.
The Ale House
34.5 km
Chelmsford’s vibrant craft beer bar where you can bring your own food and enjoy a welcoming, lively atmosphere with expert service.
The Orange Tree
35.0 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Fox & Hounds
36.0 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
Saxon King
39.6 km
A cozy British pub in Southend-on-Sea blending historic charm with hearty classics and family-friendly warmth.
The Bear Inn - Stock
40.5 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
The Exchange Bar & Kitchen
40.6 km
A vibrant grill and live music pub in Southend-on-Sea offering classic British fare with a modern twist and a lively atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Trilogy Nightclub
0.2 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience Colchester’s lively nightlife with Rubix Bar & Nightclub’s energetic music, vibrant dance floor, and welcoming social scene every weekend night.
The Club
25.2 km
Experience Ipswich’s vibrant nightlife at The Club, where music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere come alive in the city centre.
Supper Club
25.3 km
Lively nightclub in Ipswich offering great drinks, music, and a vibrant social scene from afternoon until early morning.
Carbon Nightclub
33.9 km
Experience Stowmarket’s lively nightlife at Carbon Nightclub, a modern venue pulsing with music and weekend energy.
Popworld - Chelmsford
34.2 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
34.4 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
34.4 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
The Lounge Jazz Club
38.2 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
40.8 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, top DJs, and a lively atmosphere at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Just Vibez
41.1 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
Flex Nightclub
41.5 km
Lively late-night nightclub in Bury St. Edmunds offering dance music, bar service, and a bustling atmosphere with a local crowd.
Foundation
41.6 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Sunrooms2
41.7 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
41.7 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
