Colchester hotels from RM241

Top reasons to visit Colchester

• Historical Significance: Discover Colchester's rich history, including its status as Britain’s oldest recorded town and the impressive Colchester Castle.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy fun-filled days at Colchester Zoo and Adventure Island, perfect for visitors of all ages.
• Scenic Outdoor Spaces: Relax in beautiful parks and picturesque apple orchards, ideal for leisurely strolls and picnics.
• Vibrant Cultural Scene: Experience local festivals, art exhibitions, and a diverse range of cultural events throughout the year.
• Varied Accommodation Options: Choose from charming lodges to modern hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay tailored to your needs.

Find great hotels in Colchester

Colchester offers a delightful array of accommodation options, from charming lodges to modern hotels, catering to every traveller’s needs. Whether you’re seeking pet-friendly establishments, family-friendly amenities, or accessible rooms, you’ll find suitable choices throughout the town. Explore the various options, including the Abbey Gate and Abbotts Lane hotels, as well as convenient stays at the Colchester campus, ensuring a memorable visit to this historic locale.

• Holiday Inn Colchester by IHG: This 4-star hotel offers a blend of comfort and convenience, making it a perfect choice for families and business travellers alike. The hotel is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along. Families will appreciate the dedicated amenities for children, including a playground and first aid kit. The welcoming atmosphere is complemented by comprehensive services, ensuring a memorable stay for both adults and children. With its excellent location in Colchester, guests can easily explore the surrounding attractions while enjoying the convenience of on-site dining and spacious accommodations.
• Holiday Inn Express Colchester by IHG: An ideal choice for business travellers and those seeking an LGBTQIA-friendly environment, this hotel prioritises comfort and accessibility. With modern amenities, including complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi, it caters to the needs of the contemporary traveller. Positioned conveniently in Colchester, guests have easy access to local businesses and attractions. The hotel’s commitment to inclusivity, highlighted by its affiliation with LGBTQI travel guides, ensures that all guests feel welcome and valued during their stay.
• St Nicholas Hotel: This charming 3-star hotel is known for its cosy atmosphere and convenient dining options, offering a delightful English breakfast to start your day. Guests can relax in rooms featuring flatscreen and digital TVs, providing entertainment after a day of exploring Colchester. The hotel's central location means you're just moments away from the city centre, perfect for those wishing to soak up the local culture and sights. With its warm ambiance and attentive service, St Nicholas Hotel is a great option for both leisure and business visitors.

Where to stay in Colchester

Colchester, a city rich in history and charm, offers a delightful mix of family-friendly attractions and serene outdoor experiences. Explore the renowned Colchester Zoo for a fun day out, or take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque apple orchards nearby. With accessible accommodations and a welcoming atmosphere, visitors can easily immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture and historical sites that make Colchester an unforgettable holiday destination.

• Mersea Island: Nestled off the coast near Colchester, Mersea Island is a charming getaway known for its stunning coastal scenery and outdoor activities. The island’s quiet beaches, including the popular family beach, offer a picturesque setting for relaxation and leisure. Visitors can enjoy various recreational areas, and the marina provides opportunities for boating and water sports. With a peak visitor season between July and September, Mersea Island is perfect for those looking to experience the great outdoors while indulging in local seafood delicacies at nearby eateries. Don’t miss the chance to explore the quaint shops and local markets that add to the island's charm.
• West Mersea: A delightful village located just a stone's throw from Colchester, West Mersea is known for its vibrant community and beautiful surroundings. Visitors are drawn here for outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes, particularly during peak months of April and July to August. The stunning beaches and nearby national park provide ample opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and family fun. West Mersea’s shopping centre and recreational areas cater to various interests, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration. The village's friendly atmosphere and engaging local events make it a must-visit for any traveller.
• Stoke by Nayland: Situated in the picturesque countryside near Colchester, Stoke by Nayland is a quaint village that offers a blend of culture and outdoor experiences. The area attracts visitors seeking family-friendly activities, particularly in peak seasons such as January, March, and September. With a golf course and shopping centre nearby, there's something for everyone. The village is rich in history, with local monuments that tell the tale of its heritage. For those who appreciate nature, the proximity to beautiful beaches and tranquil landscapes makes Stoke by Nayland a perfect retreat for a relaxing getaway.

Things to do in and around Colchester

Colchester is an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a mix of city-themed attractions. Visitors can enjoy exciting activities like Adventure Island and the Autumn Jazz festival, along with a variety of educational experiences. The town also boasts shopping centres and malls, providing ample opportunities for retail therapy. With plenty of affordable activities available, Colchester promises a delightful and engaging holiday experience for all.

Shopping

In Colchester, visit Assington Barn, a charming store just 14.5km away, perfect for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, Braintree Village, located 22.5km away, boasts a vibrant shopping atmosphere with diverse shops. Felixstowe Market, 114.5km away, offers a bustling experience for local goods.

Recreation

Brightlingsea Open Air Swimming Pool offers a refreshing outdoor swim, perfect for families seeking fun in the sun. Enjoy the invigorating atmosphere at Colchester Golf Club, where you can tee off amidst beautiful landscapes. For relaxation, Cudmore Grove Country Park provides tranquil walks and scenic views, ideal for unwinding.

Adventure

For an exhilarating experience, visit Alton Water, located 19.3km from Colchester, where you can indulge in various water sports amidst stunning outdoor scenery. Alternatively, head to Foxhall Stadium, 29.0km away, for thrilling motor racing adventures, or enjoy karting at Rayleigh Indoor Karting Stadium, 40.2km from the city.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Colchester at the Mercury Theatre for a dose of culture and romance. For a thrilling adventure, visit Xtreme Gaming’s arcadeAdventureZone. If you're up for a short journey, The Wheel Experience offers exhilarating amusement rides just 20.9km away.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Colchester

To save money on your visit to Colchester, consider travelling during the off-peak months of December to February, when accommodation prices are at their lowest. Enjoy free attractions like Colchester Castle Park and St. Osyth Beach to keep costs down. For transport, utilise the bus services, which are economical. Book your stay on a Thursday for cheaper rates, and consider using Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels and package deals that combine flights and activities, ensuring significant savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Colchester are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Colchester is Thursday. The most expensive day to stay in Colchester is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to customise your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To uncover the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel reservation in Colchester with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Colchester

Colchester is an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a blend of cultural and urban experiences. Visitors can explore a range of attractions, including beautiful beaches, historic towers, and modern universities. Whether you seek enriching cultural experiences or family-friendly activities, Colchester's diverse points of interest promise an enjoyable stay for every traveller.

• University of Essex: This modern university boasts a vibrant atmosphere with contemporary architecture and stunning green spaces. Its diverse student body and innovative research create a lively city vibe, making it a great spot to explore academic life in the UK.
• Colchester Castle Park: A beautiful private garden surrounding the historic castle, this park offers a serene escape with friendly locals. Its rich history and picturesque landscapes provide a delightful blend of nature and culture, perfect for leisurely strolls.
• Flatford Mill: This charming windmill offers a relaxing experience amidst historical surroundings. With its scenic views and friendly atmosphere, it's an ideal place to unwind and soak in the beauty of the English countryside, all while being budget-friendly.

Best time to go to Colchester

The best time to visit Colchester is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	44.2°F (6.8°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	48.0°F (8.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	59.2°F (15.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	63.3°F (17.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	60.1°F (15.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	47.7°F (8.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
December	43.0°F (6.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Colchester

Colchester can be conveniently accessed via several major airports. London Stansted Airport (STN) is situated 43.5km away, with notable hotels nearby such as the 5-star Linden Stansted, 4.8km from the airport, and the 4-star Radisson Blu Hotel, located just 322m away. London Luton Airport (LTN), 86.9km distant, offers options like the luxurious Luton Hoo Hotel, 3.2km from the airport, and the 4-star London Luton Vale Hotel, also 3.2km away. Finally, London City Airport (LCY) is 72.4km from Colchester, with nearby 5-star accommodations including Sea Containers London, 11.3km from the airport, and Shangri-La The Shard, 9.7km away.