As the leaves turn and the air grows crisper, Colchester is at its most inviting.
With its mix of Roman history, independent shops and leafy green spaces, Britain’s first city makes an ideal spot for a relaxed autumn day out.
Start your day with a stroll through Castle Park, home to the largest Norman keep built in Europe, Colchester Castle.
The park’s tree‑lined paths make for a peaceful morning walk, with plenty of benches to pause and take it in
Afterwards, warm up in one of Colchester’s cosy cafés. Independent spots such as Bar 82 in Red Lion Yard or Timbers on Trinity Street are perfect for a hot drink and a bite, before you explore the city centre.
No trip to Colchester would be complete without a look around its historic heart.
Wander the cobbled lanes around St Botolph’s Priory, browse independent shops and stores along High Street, Eld Lane, Culver Square and in Red Lion Shopping Centre.
Keep an eye out for a brilliant Roman wall near The Hole in the Wall in Balkerne Hill and then take a short walk for a matinee at The Mercury Theatre.
For lunch, visit one of Colchester’s eateries. Try a vegetarian meal at Patch in Trinity Street or some seafood at Cod of The Castle. For something lighter, the Colchester Farmers’ Market (on select Saturdays) is a great spot to pick up artisan snacks and street food.
In the afternoon, take a gentle walk along the Colne Valley or the Stour Valley paths just outside the city centre. Closer in, a loop around Abbey Field and the Roman River gives a green, quiet escape without leaving the borough.
End your day with a drink or dinner at one of Colchester’s atmospheric pubs.
Try Three Wise Monkeys in High Street or nearby venue Coda. In St Nicholas Square, you can peruse a wide range of drinks and entertainment at The Romano Lounge, Dragonfly Lounge, Roots and Grooves café.
When it comes to food, there's also a range of culinary delights available from curries at Maharani in High Street to Asian cuisine at the Noodle Bar in North Hill.
If you're after some live entertainment with your tipple, try the Queen Street Brewhouse or the Colchester Arts Centre to round off an autumn day in Britain’s first city.
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