Colchester campsites

The Romans chose Colchester as their capital, and even today it's a vibrant spot with history that will help you uncover Britain's past. 

Mingle with more than 270 species from around the world at the fantastic Colchester Zoo. It's a great day out for kids and adults alike, with informative talks, quirky animals and more. For a really wild day out, you can try being a keeper for the day, wander through the butterfly glade and see the African sahara come alive with elephants, lions and tigers.

Art buffs and culture vultures should try the Minories Galleries and the Hollytrees Museum, set in a Georgian townhouse with more than 300 years of history. You won't be short of time for its gallery of historic clocks and then you can have a potter around its lovely collections and buy a few mementoes in the shop.

Have a gander at Colchester Natural History Museum with its interactive displays and special options for mini explorers. Come and find out about the woolly mammoths that once made Colchester their home!

Also well worth exploring just a mile south of Colchester is Bourne Mill, a Grade 1 listed watermill with a working waterwheel.

Looking for somewhere tranquil and pretty to relax in? Colchester has several beautiful greenspaces including the beautiful Grade II listed Castle Park which is home to Colchester Castle and a segment of Roman Wall. Glide over the boating lake, roam through its fine gardens and then get the little ones to work off their excess energy in the play area.

Talking of spooky castles, this Essex town is home to Europe's biggest Norman keep, which was itself built on a Roman temple. These days it has everything from vaults to ancient treasure, with an ever-changing selection of exhibits.

A browse around town will bring you to great theatres such as the Mercury Theatre and Headgate Theatre and the Colchester Arts Centre, as well as a variety of bars and restaurants. For something a bit different, why not enjoy wine tasting or a wine course at the Essex Wine School.

Nearby attractions that are well worth visiting include the Sir Alfred Munnings Art Museum, the stunning Beth Chatto Gardens, the Green Island Gardens and the Marks Hall Gardens and Arboretum. The National Trust property of Paycocke's House and Garden, as well as Layer Marney Tower which is the tallest Tudor Gatehouse in England are also intriguing places to visit close to Colchester.