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Colchester Castle & Museum

Colchester Castle is an exceptional building of national importance. Colchester occupies a unique place in the history of Britain . Here the Romans established their first capital and created the idea of Britain . Today Colchester Castle guards one of the finest collections of Roman archaeology in the country. Wild sea-beasts, birds and cupids grace the superb Middleborough mosaic. The Colchester Vase shows gladiators fighting, while the tombstones of Facilis and Longinus allow you to come face to face with the Roman army. Local finds, stunning treasures, Britain ’s history recorded.

The Norman Colchester Castle (admission charge applies) sits on the foundations of the Roman temple of Claudius and explores 2000 years of history. In this stunning castle you can discover the story of Boudica, see how the Romans lived and enjoy a fantastic temporary exhibition programme throughout the year as well as a range of unique special events.

Colchester Castle Museum takes you through 2000 years of some of the most important events in British History.  Colchester, once the capital of Roman Britain has experienced devastation by the famous Queen Boudica’s, invasion by the Norman ’s and has been under siege during the English Civil War.

Beneath the Castle are the remains of the famous roman temple of Claudius .  Today if you lay your hand on the stonework of the temple it can be said that you are touching the very foundation of roman Britain .  The museum is full of internationally important collections interpreted in a hands–on fun way to bring 2000 years of history to life.

Colchester Castle is one of the most important historic buildings in the country, the largest surviving Norman keep in Britain and has royal links to the tower of London . It sits in pride of place in Britain ’s oldest recorded town  

Since the 16th century, the Castle has been a ruin, a library and a gaol for witches.  Today it’s an award winning museum featuring many hands-on displays showing Colchester ’s history from the Stone Age to the Civil War.

Some of the most important historical finds in Britain can be seen here including:

• A magnificent Roman bronze statue of Mercury
• The original Charter granted to Colchester in 1413
• The Colchester vase, one of the finest examples of Roman pottery found in Britain
• The Colchester sphinx, which once formed part of an elaborate Roman tomb
• Gold Coins of King Cunobelin

The collection has ‘designated status’ -  which identifies the pre-eminent collections of national and international importance held in England's non-national museums, libraries and archives, based on their quality and significance. These inspiring collections represent a vital part of our national cultural and artistic heritage.

Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sundays 11am to 5pm (closed for a few days over Christmas and New Year)

Guided Tour Times
Nov to Feb : 12am, 1pm, 2pm
Mar to Oct : 12am, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm



Access

The Castle Museum has won awards for improvements made in regards to physical access. For more information click here