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If you’ve not visited before, make 2023 the year you fall in love with Colchester Castle.
Colchester Castle is Europe’s largest Norman Keep, built on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius. Today, it’s one of the region’s leading heritage attractions, an interactive modern museum, perfect for half term adventures and packed full of nationally important treasures.
Visit between the 11-19 February and take a step back in time, wonder at the many artefacts on display, learn about Queen Boudica, or even sleepover for the night when the very popular Knightzzz at the Museum returns.
If that’s not enough, you’ll be able to take part in a special Valentine’s-themed trail that takes you around the Castle, and receive a prize. Take a moment out and get messy in the craft room, or take a family tour enabling you to visit parts of the museum not usually open to the public. Descend into the Roman vaults and climb high onto the Castle roof and enjoy panoramic views of the City of Colchester.
Colchester residents will receive a Castle Pass when visiting, which offers free return visits for a whole year when paying to enter the museum just once. Non-residents can also upgrade to a Castle Pass for a small additional cost. With a wide programme of events taking place throughout the year, including the much-anticipated blockbuster exhibition Gladiators: A Day at the Roman Games, opening on the 15 July, half term is the perfect time to visit to take advantage of this offer.
For those wishing to make a day of it, Colchester Museums also has two other completely free museums to visit, both within easy access of the Castle.
Journey through 300 years of life and childhood in Colchester during a visit to Hollytrees Museum and discover more about the origins of the famous nursery rhyme Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. The museum will be hosting free storytelling sessions on the Tuesday 14 and Thursday 16 February, so you can further entertain the children for free!
When you have exhausted Hollytrees Museum, it's time to hop across the road and fill little minds with all creatures great and small, at the Natural History Museum.
Find out more about local wildlife habitats, biodiversity and climate change and get up close to nature. Whilst exploring, take part in some of the free fun craft sessions on the Wednesday 15 and Friday 17 February. What will you create?
Councillor Pam Cox, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Heritage, said: “This half term, schedule in some time to visit the city’s fabulous museums. With free entry at two of the museums and free activities across the sites, the team is waiting to inspire, entertain and delight children of all ages. Head to colchester.cimuseums.org.uk/events to find out more.”
Please call 01206 282939 to find out more and book events.
Page last reviewed: 26 January 2023