Things to do around Colchester

Brightlingsea Museum

Brightlingsea 01206 303286

A representative collection of objects, photographs and pictures illustrative of the social and economic history of the town and its immediate surroundings over the past 700 years.

Jaywick Martello Tower

Martello Tower

Clacton-on-Sea 01255 822783

Built originally as a Napoleonic Fort in the early 19th century the tower now acts as a central hub for the local community & visitors. There are regular arts & heritage exhibitions, talks & events.

Colchester Castle Museum

Colchester 01206 282313

Colchester Castle is the largest Norman Keep in Europe. Constructed on the foundations of the Temple of Claudius. The Castle Museum today reveals many fascinating layers of history to visitors.

Hollytrees Museum

Colchester 01206 282313

An important part of Colchester’s rich history with three centuries of fascinating toys, costume and decorative arts displayed in an attractive Georgian town house from 1718.

Natural History Museum

Colchester 01206 282313

Discover and interesting ‘hands-on’ perspective on the local natural environment from the Ice Age right up to today. Explore the garden trail and stag beetle exhibition, free entry.

The Munnings Art Museum

Sir Alfred Munnings Museum

Colchester 01206 322127

Explore the life and work of renown British artist Sir Alfred Munnings (1878-1959) in his former home and studio.

Wilkin and Sons Ltd – Tiptree Tea Rooms

Wilkin and Sons Ltd

Colchester 01621 814524

Tiptree is the home of the Wilkin family – where from 1885 the first Tiptree jam was made. Delightful museum, tea room and gift shop.

Harwich Lifeboat Museum

Harwich 01255 502872

Museum contains the last Clacton off-shore. Oakley Class Lifeboat 34ft and a history of the lifeboat service in Harwich.

Mersea Island Museum

Mersea Island 01206 383372

Exhibits of Mersea’s social history, natural history, archaeology and fishing industry, including a fisherman’s cottage display. Special exhibitions and gift shop.