Explore Colchester: 2 Days of History & Culture

Discover Colchester without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Visitors on a limited budget can still enjoy the sights and sounds of Colchester, UK. The town offers several free attractions, such as the historic castle and gardens, as well as the beautiful countryside walks. Accommodations can also be found at affordable rates in guesthouses and hostels in the area.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Explore the History of Colchester

  • Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Colchester, located in the city centre, offers affordable rooms and a complimentary breakfast.
  • Visit Colchester Castle, a well-preserved ancient fortress with an impressive museum of Roman artefacts.
  • Stop by St Botolph's Priory, a tranquil ruin of a 12th-century church that was once the largest in England.
  • Have lunch at The Minories Art Gallery Café, featuring locally-sourced ingredients and a charming garden.
  • Walk along Colchester's medieval walls, with picturesque views of the town and beyond.
  • Learn about Colchester's witchcraft history at the town's Witchcraft and Witches Museum.
Day 2

Discover Colchester's Contemporary Scene

  • Have brunch at the Colchis Food and Drink Market, offering international cuisine from various local vendors.
  • Visit Firstsite Art Centre, showcasing exhibitions from contemporary artists. Don't miss Greyson Perry's "The Life of Julie Cope" tapestries.
  • Enjoy a leisurely stroll through picturesque Castle Park, with gardens, a lake, and a bandstand.
  • Have a pint at the charming Queen Street Brewhouse, a microbrewery with a cozy atmosphere.
  • Head to the Mercury Theatre for an evening show. With a focus on new writing and inclusivity, it's a must-visit in the UK's theatre scene.
  • Colchester offers a unique blend of history and contemporary culture, all within a charming small town setting. With affordable accommodation options and plenty to do and see, it's a fantastic destination for a short getaway.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Colchester Calling: A 4-Day Adventure for the Whole Family

Colchester, located in the United Kingdom, is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. With its rich history, families can explore Colchester Castle, a well-preserved Norman fortress, and learn about the town's Roman past at the Roman Circus Centre. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit the nearby Colchester Zoo, home to over 260 species, offering an exciting and educational experience for all ages.

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.

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.

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.