Living in Colchester
Looking to move to Colchester? Learn all about what life here is like, from the local schools and transport options to things to do around town and, of course, find out about property prices in the area.
Your guide to moving and living in Colchester
Why Colchester is a great place to live
Colchester is a historic market town in Essex, often recognised as Britain’s oldest recorded town. Situated northeast of London, Colchester is best known for its Roman heritage, visible through treasures such as the imposing Roman walls and the renowned Colchester Castle, which sits atop an ancient temple. The town successfully blends its deep-rooted history with modern amenities, offering a wide selection of shops, cafés, attractions, and green spaces.
The area appeals to a diverse population. Families are drawn to its good selection of schools and plentiful parks, while students attend the University of Essex campus on the town’s edge. There is also a sizeable commuter population, attracted by direct rail connections to London Liverpool Street, and retirees who appreciate the town’s pleasant surroundings and vibrant, cultural life. Locals often take advantage of Colchester's proximity to the coast and the picturesque landscapes of Constable Country nearby.
Colchester’s rich history is rivalled only by its reputation as a growing centre for the arts, featuring galleries, local festivals, and a lively theatre scene. The attractive riverside, historic buildings, and thriving community mean Colchester is well-regarded both as a place to live and visit, while its array of neighbouring villages offers peaceful alternatives within easy reach of the town centre.
Community & Local Life
Community in Colchester is shaped by its long history, blend of urban and rural influences, and active population. The town has a strong tradition of local societies, volunteering, and neighbourhood groups running events and social activities. Residents take pride in supporting local markets, such as the vibrant Colchester Market on the High Street, and enjoy regular events ranging from farmers’ markets to vintage fairs.
Parks and open spaces, such as Castle Park and High Woods Country Park, are focal points for outdoor gatherings, fitness, and cultural events. The riverside walks and Dedham Vale countryside are popular with walkers and cyclists, while Mersea Island and the Essex coast are short drives away for those seeking fresh sea air.
Community centres, arts venues, and sports clubs offer plenty of opportunities to meet new people and get involved. The overall social feel varies by neighbourhood, with some areas more tranquil and others, especially nearer the university, offering a livelier student-focused scene.
Safety & Crime Rates in Colchester
Crime rates in Colchester are generally in line with other large towns in the southeast of England. The town centre, like most urban areas, experiences higher levels of crime, particularly related to shoplifting and anti-social behaviour. However, residential neighbourhoods such as Lexden, Prettygate, and the villages surrounding Colchester are perceived as safer and attract many families and professionals.
Essex Police maintain a visible presence in and around Colchester, with neighbourhood policing teams actively engaged in community outreach and crime prevention initiatives. Recent regeneration projects and increased investment in CCTV have also contributed to local safety efforts, particularly in the High Street and public spaces. Annual community panel meetings provide residents opportunities to voice concerns and engage with local policing priorities.
Parking & Road Access
Parking in Colchester can be a challenge in the town centre at peak times, but there are numerous council-run car parks, as well as private parking options around shopping and leisure facilities. Resident permit schemes operate in some streets close to the centre and railway stations, which are particularly beneficial for those living in popular commuter areas.
On-street parking is available in many outlying neighbourhoods, though spaces may be limited during school or working hours. Road access is generally good, with the A12 trunk road providing fast links to the M25 and north to Suffolk and Norfolk. The A120 connects Colchester to Stansted Airport and onward to Hertfordshire.
Nearby towns and cities by main road access include:
- Chelmsford – approx. 30 minutes via A12 (22 miles)
- Ipswich – approx. 25 minutes via A12 (19 miles)
- London – approx. 1 hour 15 minutes via A12/M25 (60 miles)
- Braintree – approx. 35 minutes via A120 (20 miles)
- Harwich – approx. 35 minutes via A120 (18 miles)
Cycle lanes and pedestrian routes are being extended gradually in line with local planning initiatives, supporting more environmentally friendly transport around Colchester.
Food, Pubs & Nightlife
Colchester offers a varied food and drink scene, combining independent cafés, classic pubs, and a growing range of international restaurants. Crouch Street and the town centre are known for their lively selection of eateries, from Italian trattorias and Turkish grills to classic British fare. Popular choices include The Green Room, North Hill Noodle Bar, and Bill’s.
The local pub scene ranges from historic inns like The Marquis, which dates back centuries, to contemporary bars such as Three Wise Monkeys and the micropub Queen Street Brewhouse. Nightlife in Colchester tends to be more relaxed than in major cities, but it does host late-night cocktail bars, music venues like Colchester Arts Centre, and several nightclubs including ATIK for those seeking a livelier evening.
Takeaways, cafés, and street food stalls are found across the centre and suburbs, catering for both daytime and late-night appetites. The town hosts regular food and drink festivals, with local breweries and producers showcased alongside national brands.
Is Colchester Family Friendly
School quality: Colchester is renowned for excellent primary and secondary schools, including both grammar and comprehensive options, providing strong academic support for children of all ages.
Parks and green space: Families benefit from Castle Park, High Woods, and recreational grounds dotted throughout the town, offering safe places to play, walk, and enjoy sports.
Childcare: The area features a wide selection of nurseries, childminders, and pre-schools, including both private and state-funded options near most residential areas.
Safety: Family neighbourhoods such as Prettygate, Lexden, and Stanway are popular for their community feel and reputation for low crime rates.
Family activities: The town boasts Colchester Zoo, museums, a castle, and regular family-focused events, plus children's classes and clubs, ensuring there’s always something for young people to do in Colchester.
Pet Friendly Living
Colchester is a pet-friendly town with abundant green space and dog-walking opportunities. Castle Park, High Woods Country Park, and Abbey Field provide picturesque places for walks and exercise. The nearby Dedham Vale and Essex countryside are ideal for longer outings, with miles of public footpaths and dog-friendly routes.
Multiple veterinary surgeries, pet grooming services, and pet supply shops can be found locally. Many of Colchester’s pubs and cafés, particularly those with outside seating, welcome well-behaved dogs. Rental properties vary, but it is increasingly common for landlords to permit pets, especially in the suburbs.
Several social clubs and meet-ups for dog owners foster a supportive, friendly atmosphere, making Colchester an attractive place to live for pet lovers.
Transport & Accessibility
Colchester provides excellent transport links, making it a practical choice for commuters, students, and those travelling further afield. The town is served by two mainline railway stations: Colchester North (also just called Colchester) and Colchester Town. These stations provide regular, fast train services to London Liverpool Street, Ipswich, and Norwich.
Colchester’s comprehensive bus network connects the town centre, suburbs, and nearby villages. National Express coaches and local services run to major destinations, including Stansted Airport and London. The A12 trunk road allows easy car travel between London, Chelmsford, Ipswich, and the east coast, while the A120 links out towards Braintree and Stansted Airport.
Colchester’s location makes it accessible to several key cities and destinations:
- London Liverpool Street – approximately 50 minutes by direct train
- Stanstead Airport – around 45 minutes by car (via A120)
- Ipswich – approximately 20 minutes by train
- Chelmsford – about 30 minutes by train or car
- Harwich International Port – around 35 minutes by car (via A120)
The town is also within reach of rural Essex and the Suffolk coast for weekend trips or countryside walks. For cyclists, National Cycle Network routes pass through, connecting Colchester to Dedham Vale and beyond.
Schools & Education in Colchester
Schools in Colchester are highly regarded, offering a mix of outstanding grammar schools, comprehensives, and independent institutions. The area is extremely popular for its educational options, drawing families from across Essex and Suffolk.
Primary Schools:
The Garrison Primary School is rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted (last inspected 2017), and Hamilton Primary School is also rated ‘Outstanding’ (last inspected 2016). Other well-established choices include Myland Primary School and St John’s Green Primary School, both rated ‘Good’ (2018).
Secondary Schools:
Colchester Royal Grammar School is one of the town’s most prestigious, having achieved ‘Outstanding’ status (Ofsted, 2023) and is renowned for excellent A-level and GCSE results. Colchester County High School for Girls, another selective grammar, is similarly rated ‘Outstanding’ (Ofsted, 2022). Philip Morant School and College, and St Helena School, are also popular local choices with ‘Good’ ratings (last inspected 2018 and 2019, respectively).
Independent Schools and Colleges:
Colchester High School offers private education from nursery through to GCSEs, while Holmwood House is a respected prep school just outside town. The Sixth Form College, Colchester, provides a wide selection of A-level and BTEC courses and is considered one of the largest such colleges in the UK.
Universities:
The University of Essex, with its main campus on the town’s outskirts, is internationally known for social sciences, economics, and research excellence. It attracts students worldwide, adding a cosmopolitan element to Colchester’s population.