Location: Colchester
Top Things to do in Colchester
Things to do in Colchester, England: The Best Shopping
Colchester /ˈkoʊltʃɛstər/ ( listen) is an historic market town and the largest settlement within the borough of Colchester in the county of Essex.
Restaurants in Colchester
1. Colchester Arts Centre
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 208 reviews
Colchester Arts Centre - the little church with the big attitude deep in the heart of Essex. Well that's how we describe it anyway. It sort of works, it at least gives a flavour of what we're about. Because just how do you describe a venue that can put children's entertainer Palfi the Clown on, on the same day as Cradle of Filth? Where a Farmer's Market in the morning becomes a comedy club in the evening, where folk enthusiasts can sit happily knitting (and they do!) in the exact same spot a ferocious mosh pit of teenage dancing takes place the following night? And where the beautiful historic architecture of St Mary's Church dating back over a thousand years, plays host to some of the newest comics, most modern choreographers, some of the coolest DJ's and some of the freshest talent in Britain. Over the years we've promoted Coldplay, Eddie Izzard, Graham Norton, Harry Hill, Catherine Tate, Jo Brand, The Libertines, Ash, The Killers, The Strokes, Phill Jupitus, Mick Jones, Bill Bailey, Jack Dee, Count Arthur Strong - all before anyone had ever heard of them of course - plus the likes of jazz legend Ronnie Scott and even the late lamented and much loved Brian Johnston the cricket commentator. Our passion to present new work, bring great bands and comics to Colchester burns more brightly than ever. Our business is all about fresh ideas, new acts, new art forms and vibrant new ways of working. We can't stand still. We embrace the new, the quirky the original and yes, the surreal.
Reviewed By Flackajack - Colchester, United Kingdom
Best live music venue in Colchester. Fabulous atmospheric venue being in an old church, great acoustics, been to some really great gigs here. Can't rate this venue highly enough. Love it.
2. Procter's Sausages
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
3. The Munnings Art Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 202 reviews
Each year a changing selection of 150 paintings and drawings from the museum’s significant collection of works by Sir Alfred Munnings is hung chronologically throughout eight rooms. From less familiar early apprentice poster designs to the explosive horseracing scenes for which Munnings is most well-known, the displays chart the artist’s life and six-decade career. Cafe, shop, plenty of free parking.
Reviewed By Jeff1903 - King's Lynn, United Kingdom
A delightful house just outside a pretty village, this was the home and studio of the artist Munnings. It is filled with his work and objects associated with his life. He painted in a range of styles, being most famous for his depictions of horses. However even if these do not appeal, the house itself is still worth a look. There is a tearoom in the lovely garden and the staff are all very pleasant. A couple of rooms stage special exhibitions and when we visited there was a collection of Munnings First World War paintings on loan from Canada, which was a real bonus. Members of the Art Fund gain half price admission.
4. Sentinel Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13 reviews
Reviewed By Sandmartin2 - Colchester, United Kingdom
On a quick visit to Wivenhoe with a friend we visited the Sentinel Gallery. It was such a pleasant surprise. The welcome was very friendly. The objects on display were superb. There was a cross section of items from sculpture, ceramics, art, just so many. Will certainly be going back.
5. The Craft Spot
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Stationery and Craft Shop conveniently located very near to the bus station, town centre rail station and four car parks. Stationery for home, office, school and college at competitive prices, small quantities or bulk. Craft supplies for card-making and scrapbooking - best range of peel-offs, decoupage and cutting dies in town. An independent business, we offer a friendly and helpful service. Wheelchair accessible and seating for waiting husband/friend.
6. Blue Owl
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 28 reviews
We are a paint your own ceramics studio, and gift shop. We also serve freshly ground coffee, teas, and cakes/snacks.
7. Rocks & Rubies
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 25 reviews
A treasure trove of beautiful crystals, jewellery and gifts next to Colchester Castle.
Reviewed By MadameJoJoJoJo - Brighton, United Kingdom
If you want to support local business, this is the perfect shop to go to. The huge range of crystals and geodes, and other quirky gifts, is second to none. You are bound to find a great present here, at a really good price. The store also does live Facebook sales where you can grab a bargain. Rob, the owner, is so knowledgeable and helpful. You also book individuals appointments with him online so that you can have a safe personal shopping experience in these COVID times.
8. GfB: The Colchester Bookshop
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
Specialising in literature, art, history, philosophy, science and local history, GfB at the Colchester Bookshop occupies three floors of one of the town's most recognisable buildings: the Tymperleys archway. Drop in for a browse, be amazed by our quirky rooms and staircases, and wonder at the medieval hall roof of the home of William Gilberd (1544-1603), one of the greatest early scientists.
9. rsvp
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
We Love Eclectic, Unique And Stylish Homeware, Gifts And Toys And Are Always Adding To Our Collection In Store, We Hope We Can Inspire Your Next Gift Or Addition To Your Home. We Also Support Our Local Artists Who Bring Originality And Style With Their Various Gifts And Cards.
10. Shakespeare House Gallery
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