Colchester is one of England’s fastest-growing towns, offering a wide variety of property choices. From brand-new developments to period homes, the town and surrounding villages provide something for everyone—whether it’s half-timbered houses in the Dutch Quarter, elegant Victorian villas, cosy terraced cottages, riverside apartments on the redeveloped Hythe docklands, or modern flats converted from historic mills and breweries.

As Britain’s oldest recorded town, Colchester has a remarkable heritage dating back to the Roman era, when it was known as Camulodunum. Once the capital of Roman Britain, it was home to a grand temple and city walls, some of which remain today.

The town later felt the influence of Saxons, Normans, medieval monasteries, and even Oliver Cromwell during the Civil War. Historic landmarks such as Colchester Castle and The Old Siege House still bear witness to these times.

Colchester is a recognised centre for learning. The town is home to the University of Essex, Colchester Institute, a Sixth Form College, and excellent language schools. It also boasts two of the highest-performing schools in the country — Colchester County High School for Girls and Colchester Royal Grammar School.

Colchester is ideally placed for commuting and travel:

• Direct trains to London Liverpool Street in under 50 minutes
• Connections to Norwich in just over an hour
• Links to Essex coastal towns including Clacton, Frinton-on-Sea, and Walton-on-the-Naze
• Road access via the A12, A14, and A120 to Ipswich, Cambridge, the M11, Stansted Airport, and beyond

Colchester combines a market-town feel with a lively metropolitan lifestyle. The town centre offers:

• A wide choice of restaurants, cafés, and pubs — from casual dining to fine cuisine Annual events such as the famous Oyster Feast
• Excellent shopping, with Fenwick (formerly Williams & Griffin), Marks & Spencer, and a mix of high-street brands, boutiques, and markets

For leisure and entertainment:

• The Odeon multiplex cinema, Mercury Theatre, and a thriving nightlife Sports facilities including Leisure World, Rollerworld, 10-pin bowling, cricket at Castle Park, rugby at Mill Road, and Colchester United’s Community Stadium
• Family attractions like Colchester Zoo, Beth Chatto Gardens, and the Dedham Vale countryside—immortalised by painter John Constable

The River Colne flows through Colchester towards the estuary, offering opportunities for fishing and sailing. Nearby green spaces include Castle Park and Highwoods Country Park, while the surrounding countryside is rich with woodland, coastal walks, and National Trust properties.

Just a short drive away are Mersea Island (famous for oysters), Maldon (renowned for sea salt), and the charming town of Saffron Walden.

📞 For further advice on living in Colchester or to discuss property opportunities in the area, please contact our local office.