Britain’s oldest recorded city, Colchester boasts Roman ruins, a Norman Castle and cultural attractions aplenty. A wonderful destination for a weekend away from London, Colchester offers a board range of accommodation options suited to an array of budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in Colchester includes a super-smart city hotel in the heart of town, well-placed for shopping, drinking, dining and exploring on foot, as well as a gorgeous country house nestled amidst beautiful gardens — an ideal rural retreat.

Much of Colchester’s appeal lies in the bustling market town’s array of heritage sites, museums and art galleries. Designated a Roman capital before it was sacked by Boudicca, Colchester is crammed with Roman ruins, many of which are best discovered through a walking tour. Take in the Roman Wall, for example, was well as Britain’s only known Roman circus, before admiring key Norman edifices, including St Botolph’s Priory. Highlights also include Castle Park — site of Colchester Castle, an imposing Norman keep built on the foundations of a Roman temple. The Castle’s museum houses impressive ancient artefacts, whilst the nearby Hollytrees Museum features three centuries of clothing, crafts and clocks, housed in an elegant Georgian townhouse. The Park itself is lovely for a stroll, as are the Beth Chatto Gardens and the pretty Dutch Quarter, where historic half-timbered houses evidence the many settlers who fled Holland to base themselves in the area. Don't miss seeing brilliant pieces by artists from around the world at the fantastic Firstsite, a contemporary arts centre close to the Park. Drive to the Munnings Art Museum in Dedham for exquisite equestrian paintings, or, if it’s quirky geological exhibits that you’re after, pop into the Natural History Museum.

Outdoor adventurers will find walking and cycling trails snaking through the picturesque countryside around Colchester, renowned for having inspired John Constable’s landscape paintings. Families should head to the famed Colchester Zoo to marvel at all sorts of animals, whilst foodies will find Mersea Island an intriguing spot to discover, with terrific fresh seafood to tuck into.

Catch a play at the Mercury Theatre, delve into myriad boutiques, and sample Colchester’s lively bars and eateries in the evenings. With history aplenty, the thriving market town of Colchester is an excellent destination for culture aficionados, history buffs and weekend visitors eager to swap the big city for relaxing rural walks and cycle rides. Time your trip for the region’s big events — including world-class gigs and exhibitions — and book a room at one of the best places to stay in Colchester to unwind in absolute bliss.

The Best Places to Stay in Colchester

For city chic

• Greyfriars is an elegant Georgian property in the heart of Colchester's cutural district. Ideal for exploring the town on foot, the hotel features 26 opulent rooms and suites with fabulous bathrooms. Think free-standing copper tubs for long evening soaks, drinks at the smart bar, and delectable dining in the Michelin-recommended restaurant. Romantic five-star luxury in the town centre.

For a country house hotel

• Wivenhoe House offers an indulgent rural escape near Wivenhoe. Book a luxury room in the eighteenth-century house for classic grandeur, or stay in the swish, newly-built garden wing for beautiful views from floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies. Afternoon tea is a real treat, whilst the lovely brasserie serves flavoursome traditional dishes with a modern twist. Immortalised in one of Constable's paintings, this is a gorgeous countryside choice for business or leisure travellers.

For an apartment or holiday cottage

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• There are regular trains from London Liverpool Street to Colchester, perfect for a weekend escape from the city. The journey takes under an hour by rail, and just over an hour by road.
• Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car -- there's so much to discover in the countryside around Colchester.
• Travel between May and September for warmer weather and long days, perfect for exploring!

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Dedham.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Essex.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

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