Colchester Castle, Essex Overview

Built on the site of the Temple of Claudius, a symbol of Roman power when Colchester was the capital of Britain, Colchester Castle is the largest Norman keep in Europe. It was constructed around 1080 after William I ordered a royal fortress to be built at Colchester, but for most of its life the castle has been used as a prison – in 1645 'Witchfinder General' Matthew Hopkins appropriated it as a base for interrogating and imprisoning witches. It first opened to the public as a museum in 1860, and it is in that capacity that it continues today.

Permanent collection

The award-winning Castle Museum now houses extensive archaeological displays ranging from the earliest evidence of human occupation in Essex to the Siege of Colchester in 1648. The museum's collection contains several important artefacts, including a collection of gold coins and an Egyptian mummy.

Art Funded works

The medieval figure of St John the Baptist was found by a metal detectorist in Essex in 2008, and is one of few objects of its kind to survive the destruction of religious art during the Reformation. The gold statue features John the Baptist in the robes of a prophet. With his right hand he gestures to a platter held in his left, representing the platter on which his head was brought to Salome following his execution.

Visitor information

Guided tours of the Roman vaults, Norman chapel and castle roof are available with a Blue Badge Guide, available after admission to the castle. The neighbouring Castle Park offers an ideal picnic spot – tickets to the castle allow re-entry, so visitors can enjoy a leisurely lunch in the park before completing their tour.