Welcome to the Historic City of Colchester

Named Britain’s first city or ‘Colonia’ by order of the Roman Emperor Claudius, and before that the capital of the Iron Age Trinovantes Tribe, Colchester’s rich history stretches back more than 2000 years.

Today the historic city centre is ripe for exploring, with nationally important heritage from every era and so much more to discover. Visitors will find a lively destination where the ancient merges seamlessly with the modern; offering family friendly visitor attractions, cutting edge contemporary culture, and great places to eat, drink and shop.

Beyond the city’s Roman Walls the wider Colchester area boasts some of England’s most iconic landscapes; from the Dedham Vale immortalised by Constable to the salt marshes and mud flats of Mersea Island, where

Colchester Native Oysters have been cultivated and consumed since Roman times.

Under an hour from London yet perfectly poised at the gateway to East Anglia, with picturesque villages on its doorstep and only minutes from idyllic coast and countryside, Colchester is the perfect destination for a well-deserved short break, day trip or family holiday in 2025.

We look forward to welcoming you to Colchester - Britain’s First City.