Colchester Castle
Colchester Castle things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Where you can literally touch history spanning 2,000 years. A complete castle set in beautiful grounds in the heart of Colchester. Great for children and convenient for the heart of the town and railway, and paid parking. Bonus... foundations of temple to Claudia's, Norman origins, Civil War and Quaker history. The history of Colchester Castle spans many fascinating periods, from its Roman origins through the Boudiccan Revolt, the Norman conquest, and the English Civil War. **Roman Times:** Colchester, known as Camulodunum, was the first Roman capital of Britain. In AD 43, Emperor Claudius established the settlement, complete with a temple. The temple's foundations served as the base for what would become Colchester Castle, a symbol of Roman power in the region. It stood as a testament to the might of the Roman Empire. **Boudicca's Revolt:** In AD 60 or 61, Boudicca, the Queen of the Iceni, led a major uprising against Roman rule. During this revolt, Colchester was besieged and ultimately razed to the ground. The destruction of the Roman settlement was extensive, including the original Roman temple that would later be replaced by the castle. **Norman Conquest:** After the Norman Conquest of 1066, William the Conqueror ordered the construction of Colchester Castle, starting in the late 11th century. The Normans used the ruined Roman temple's foundations as a base for the castle's keep. This imposing fortress became a symbol of Norman authority in England and was a vital component of their defensive network. **English Civil War:** During the English Civil War in the 17th century, Colchester Castle played a significant role as a Royalist stronghold. It was besieged by Parliamentarian forces led by Sir Thomas Fairfax in 1648. After a protracted and destructive siege, the Parliamentarians emerged victorious. The castle suffered substantial damage during the conflict. These distinct periods in the history of Colchester Castle tell a story of transformation, from a symbol of Roman power to a formidable Norman fortress and, ultimately, a battleground during the English Civil War. Today, the castle stands as a historic monument, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich tapestry of its past.
Paolo Rosi (Paolo)Paolo Rosi (Paolo)
00
Colchester Castle is an extraordinary historical landmark that offers a fascinating glimpse into Britain's rich past. From the moment you approach the castle, you’re struck by its impressive stature and well-preserved Norman architecture. The castle is steeped in history, having stood since the 11th century, and exploring it feels like stepping back in time. The museum inside is superbly curated, with exhibits that cover everything from the Roman origins of Colchester to the medieval period. The displays are informative and engaging, with a mix of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and multimedia presentations that bring history to life for visitors of all ages. The section on Boudica and the Roman invasion is particularly compelling, providing a vivid account of the events that shaped the region. One of the highlights is the guided tour of the castle’s vaults and roof. The knowledgeable guides do an excellent job of explaining the castle’s history and architecture while leading you through areas not accessible on a regular visit. The views from the rooftop are breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of Colchester and the surrounding countryside. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens, which provide a peaceful setting for a stroll or a picnic. It’s a lovely place to relax and take in the atmosphere after exploring the castle. The staff at Colchester Castle are friendly and enthusiastic, clearly passionate about sharing the history of this remarkable site. The castle is also very family-friendly, with plenty of activities to keep children entertained, including a treasure hunt and hands-on exhibits. Overall, Colchester Castle is a must-see attraction that combines history, beauty, and a sense of adventure. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for an enjoyable day out, the castle offers something for everyone. It’s a visit you won’t soon forget!
Lee BaldockLee Baldock
00
Me and my partner suffer with anxiety when it comes to crowds and people. We decided to visit here after a dentist appointment on a Saturday. Going into the grounds it looked stunning. The park was kept so tidy, even when there were people dotted about eating lunch. We had an ice cream and then decided to go in as it wasn't very expensive. We were given a receipt and the lady said we can come and go all day. For £10.95 each I thought this was a pretty good offer. We walked round slowly reading each bit and we noticed a while after just before going upstairs that there was a wedding present. Didn't think to much of it and I constantly checked if my partner was OK as he suffers with panic attacks if there's to many people. The wedding party seemed to go off in one direction so we were fine for the moment. In the last upstairs room we wandered through and started to look round there. It got very loud suddenly with people shouting and clapping. My partner started to shake slowly as he was thinking about all the people making an exit and people around him. We moved into another room and slowly went downstairs to where it was quiet. We enjoyed looking around the rest and took a look in the shop before going. The castle was amazing. But we would have preferred it if the staff had let us know there was a wedding on as the main public had to move around the wedding party and it made it a little awkward. My partner had a full blown panic attack and I had to calm him down. In no way am I being down on a wedding. It looked absolutely amazing and they must hsve spent a ton on it. Just some guests like us do worry and it ended up making the moment a little unnerving. Even so, the day was amazing and the castle was kept so clean and tidy. We will definitely visit again.
Emma DigbyEmma Digby
00
I took the kids here today for some fun, the castle is amazing to look at and the artifacts inside are very impressive. We took the mythical creatures spotting tour which I thought would be fun for the kids and allow them to explore the castle whilst we learn about history through osmosis. Unfortunately this was not the case. Instead we had an employee (who to be fair to him looked like he was given the task at the last minute) who took us on a tour of the castle to find the mythical creatures.. I was expecting them to be buried within the historical images of the castle but instead... They were photocopied pictures stuck in different windows around the building, some were outside and some were in.. we were taken up to the roof to see absolutely nothing except the view (genuinely great view of Colchester but not what we were looking for at the time) and then taken down a different set of stairs to find a plastic dragon shoved into a corner, half in darkness and told that it's asleep to save any interaction. Very disappointed in that. Unfortunately we didn't get to go on the actual tour as by then my youngest daughter had a melt-down just as we were about to start so that's another £15 wasted as the tour guide wasn't willing to wait at all and locked the doors in front of us! My elder daughter was very upset that we were locked out and couldn't catch up. All in all it's been a mixed bag of a visit. I will try and go again when the kids are a little older.. or maybe just by myself for a better look at it all. Unless the kids ask.. I'd avoid any mythical tours.
Terry DownesTerry Downes
20
Colchester castle was first William the Conqueror royal castle which was built in stone. Construction began in 1076 on the ruins of a Roman temple to the Emperor Claudius. The temple foundations, with impressive vaults, can still be seen today below the current castle. By the middle of the 14th century, the castle dungeons were made into prison cells. The castle served as the county gaol until 1668 and as a prison until 1835. In 1645 the castle was the location for investigation into suspected witches instigated by the self-styled 'Witchfinder General', Matthew Hopkins, who used the castle for his rather unpleasant witch interrogations. During the Civil War the castle was held by Royalist supporters under the leadership of Sir George Lisle and Sir Charles Lucas. When in 1648 Parliamentary troops attacked the town, and forced the castle garrison to surrender, the Royalist leaders were executed behind the castle. You can find memorial where that execution happen, in the form of an obelisk which stands near the execution spot, at the back of the castle. Since 1920, the castle owned by Colchester Borough Council. Opening times from Monday to Saturday: from 10 am to 5 pm. On Sunday from 11am to 5 pm. Last entry at 4 pm. Parking is available in the nearby Priory Street and Britannia car parks. An impressive well kept building with beautiful garden, where we enjoyed spending time and would definitely recommend to visit it.
Irina SpringateIrina Springate
00
Really interesting day out. Definitely go on the vault and roof tour if you can, luckily the man on the welcome desk told us about it as I could not see any signs with the tour times on them. The tour guide was lovely and the vaults very interesting, the roof tour could have been a bit longer with more time for photos and maybe a bit of info about the surrounding area but I suppose what your are told depends upon the guide. The museum is over 2 floors with lots of space for wheelchairs and pushchairs and lifts between the floors. Obviously there are lots of Roman exhibts that are amazing and we loved the model of the museum. There is no cafe only plastic bottles of water available at the welcome desk. So make sure you have already eaten and take a drink with you. I think there is a cafe in the park and lots of restaurants nearby. The welcome desk staff were a little lacking in info and welcome apart from the tour offer. Wasn't asked if I wanted a guide book, once in lots of children had tablets not sure if these were only for children or there was an adult version as well (if not maybe there should be). As with lots of museums I wish there was more printed information about exhibits that you could sit and read, as there is so much stuff here but you don't really get to know a lot about it and I want to know more! (this would also encourage me to come again)
Kate AllanKate Allan
00
Nearby Attractions Of Colchester Castle
Colchester Castle Park
Firstsite
Firstsite
Colchester Arts Centre
Leisure World Colchester
Putt in the Park
Escape Colchester
Hollytrees Museum
English Heritage - St Botolph's Priory
Roman Circus Visitor Centre
Colchester Castle Park
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(2.5K)Click for details
Firstsite
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Firstsite
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(565)Click for details
Colchester Arts Centre
4.7
(525)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Colchester Castle
Turtle Bay Colchester
The Playhouse - JD Wetherspoon
Three Wise Monkeys
North Hill Noodle Bar
Slug & Lettuce - Colchester
Bill's Colchester Restaurant
Preto Colchester - Brazilian Steakhouse BBQ
Mirra
Nando's Colchester - Head Street
The Purple Dog
Turtle Bay Colchester
4.7
(1.5K)Click for details
The Playhouse - JD Wetherspoon
4.1
(1.6K)Click for details
Three Wise Monkeys
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North Hill Noodle Bar
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Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
Castle Park, Colchester CO1 1TJ, United Kingdom
Map
Phone
+44 1206 282939
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Website
cimuseums.org.uk
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Reviews
Overview
4.5
(1.4K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
family friendly
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Description
Colchester Castle is a Norman castle in Colchester, Essex, England, dating from the second half of the eleventh century. The keep of the castle is mostly intact and is the largest example of its kind anywhere in Europe, due to its being built on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius, Colchester.
attractions: Colchester Castle Park, Firstsite, Firstsite, Colchester Arts Centre, Leisure World Colchester, Putt in the Park, Escape Colchester, Hollytrees Museum, English Heritage - St Botolph's Priory, Roman Circus Visitor Centre, restaurants: Turtle Bay Colchester, The Playhouse - JD Wetherspoon, Three Wise Monkeys, North Hill Noodle Bar, Slug & Lettuce - Colchester, Bill's Colchester Restaurant, Preto Colchester - Brazilian Steakhouse BBQ, Mirra, Nando's Colchester - Head Street, The Purple Dog
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