What To See And Do When You Visit Colchester

Colchester is the biggest town in Essex. The town actually claims to be the oldest one in Britain and is definitely the oldest recorded Roman settlement in the country. Due to its long history, there are plenty of Colchester attractions, which one can enjoy whilst visiting the town. Here, we'll take a look at some that should be on your shortlist when you stay in Colchester.

1.  Balkerne Gate – This is the most complete Roman gateway you will find in Britain and it is thought to have been built in 55 AD. Years ago, the gate was part of the main route into the town but it's gradually been turned into a triumphal arch. Then, later, it became part of the town's new walls before it was blocked up some four hundred years later in 465AD in order to help strengthen the defences of the town. It was rediscovered about a hundred years ago which is why it's been so well preserved.

2.  Charter Market – The oldest recorded market in the United Kingdom has been run here for more than 800 years now. King John granted the market its Rotal Charter back in 1189 and this is where its name originates from. You can still find a market at Charter Market twice a week, on Fridays and Saturdays and there is a wide variety of things to choose from as the charter prevents more than one stall selling the same item. 

3.  Colchester Castle – This Norman castle is built on the foundations of what was the Roman Temple to Claudius. But, the Roman temple was smashed to pieces in 60 AD when Queen Boudica razed the town to the ground in order to get the Romans to leave. The Normans re-used the stone to build the castle is in fact much of the materials used to build the Roman temple. 

This castle now has one of the oldest and largest of all castle keeps in the whole of Europe and inside the walls of the castle there is much to do and see. The castle houses exhibitions, which span more than 2,000 years of British history and there are displays that one can interact with as well. Whilst touring the castle you can learn more about Matthew Hopkins the Witch finder General who used it as a jail at the times that the trials were taking place.

4.  Colchester Zoo – One of Europe's finest zoos located a short drive from Colchester. Set in some 60 acres of beautiful countryside the zoo has more than 200 species of animal for you to view. Naturally, the elephants can be found in Elephant Kingdom, and Chimp World is home to the zoo's chimpanzees. Plus you will find other parts of the zoo just as enthralling. Certainly, you may well find it difficult to actually get the kids to go home.

Check out this list of Colchester accommodation for your next visit.