Living in Colchester
Recently receiving city status, Colchester has a thriving community with creative culture and growing business. It sits within the Essex border, close to Suffolk, which makes it an ideal spot for those who like to spend time exploring. A popular destination for tourists, Colchester benefits from increased local investment in regeneration, climate schemes and much more.
History of the area
The historic city of Colchester is packed with iconic buildings, Roman ruins and incredible stories. It’s no surprise, being the UK’s oldest recorded town in Britain and former UK capital. Formerly known as Camulodunon, this former town houses the largest remaining Norman castle in Europe (which is built on top of, and using materials from, the Roman Temple of Claudius).
The property market
Colchester has staying power
Although there are plenty of new properties on the market, those living in Colchester tend to stay long term. The abundance of things to do, places to see and resources available make it the perfect place to settle down or retire to. Mersea Island is one of the most sought after areas in the Colchester district, with gorgeous seafront properties.
Popular with commuters
In recent years, with economic growth, Colchester has attracted many working professionals from London. House prices are much lower in Colchester and with excellent transport links and an increase in hybrid and remote working, it’s no surprise that many are drawn away from the capital for a more rural life in Essex.
Schools and education
Colchester is the perfect place for older children and those entering adulthood, with Colchester Royal Grammar school for boys and Colchester County High for girls, with further education available from Colchester Sixth Form College and Colchester Institute and, of course, the extremely popular University of Essex.
Transport links
Colchester’s city centre benefits from not one, but two train stations – Colchester and Colchester Town. There are links to London, which you can get to in less than 1 hour in most cases, a large bus network and access to the A12. You’re also only a 45 minute drive away from Stansted airport.
Lifestyle and leisure
Places to see
Outside of the aforementioned Colchester Castle, which comes with a stunningly beautiful flower-filled park in the spring and summer, there are a range of museums (like Hollytrees) and galleries (like Firstsite) to browse. There are also historical ruins which can be found in Castle Park, along Balkerne Gate and in St Botolph's Priory.
Things to do
One of the most popular attractions in Colchester is the award winning zoo. You’ll find everything from ant colonies to threatened, endangered or critically endangered animals. If you’d like a casual stroll, you can visit Green Island Gardens or Beth Chatto Gardens. Or, if you’re looking for an ocean breeze, visit West Mersea and perhaps take part in their annual regatta.
Where to eat
There are many incredible eateries to get stuck into in Colchester, many within the town centre itself. You’ll find quaint cafes like Level Best Art Café or Sip & Tuck, which offer quick bites. Or, if you’re looking for a more hearty meal, you can visit The Wooden Fender or Miller & Carter. For fine dining, you’ll want to head to Pavillion (for seafood lovers) or to GreyFriars for a range of European delights.
The surrounding area
As we touched on earlier, Colchester sits close to the Suffolk border, so you’re only ever a short drive or train journey away from what Suffolk has to offer, including Constable Country, the rural area made famous by the landscape painter John Constable. But if you’re staying in Essex, you are close to the quiet lanes of the Colne Valley, the picturesque village of Finchingfield and the popular seaside destination of Southend-on-Sea.
Thinking of living in Colchester?
If you’ve read this guide and can see yourself living in this incredible city, which is home to around 200,000 people, then why not get in touch? We have a vast range of luxurious properties available, from older Victorian and Georgian homes to newer and more innovative buildings. Call us on 01206 564259, email colchester@chewtonrose.co.uk or visit us in branch on the corner of North Hill and the High Street.
