After Hours

 

Visit Colchester Castle after dark for a truly unique experience!

Built on the foundations of the Temple of Claudius, the Castle has over 2,500 years of history within it’s walls. Suitable for big kids to little knights, our after hours events let you see the building as you’ve never seen it before.

Experiences at The Castle

Can you break the Serpents Curse? Set in Europe’s largest Norman keep, come and explore the unexplained goings on that have caused several members of the Castle team to disappear!

In this thrilling, fast-paced game you’ll have to work as a team to solve the mysterious puzzles and crack the clues! Running for 45 minutes and designed for players aged 10+, you will encounter a mixture of mental and physical challenges.

*****

Or why not try our Family Quest, which is great for the little ones. In this fun and interactive experience, the whole family will need to solve the clues to free one of the Castle’s famous residents, who is trapped in our prisons!

*****

Each experience costs from £80 per group and can be booked by calling 01206 282939. The booking line is open Monday to Saturday 10am-4.30pm, and Sunday 11am-4.30pm.

Minimum group size 2 persons, maximum group size 8 persons. 

Dark Tours

Inspired by our 2022 blockbuster exhibition, Wicked Spirits? Witchcraft and Magic at Colchester Castle, our Dark Tours are perfect for anyone looking to explore the Castle’s more gruesome side.

Due to the nature of the tour, we recommend it for ages 12+.

Our Dark Tours will take in the bottom of the Great Stairs and the Castle Prisons, both of which have slightly uneven flooring. For useful information, such as how to find us and what facilities Colchester Castle has, we recommend reading our Access information: Access at the Castle

*****

Dark Tours cost from £80 per group and can be booked by calling 01206 282939. The booking line is open Monday to Saturday 10am-4.30pm, and Sunday 11am-4.30pm.

Bespoke Tours

Book one of our Private Tours out of hours to have Europe’s largest Norman keep all to yourself! Explore Colchester Castle with one of our expert guides and hear remarkable stories of what has happened beneath your very feet.

We’ll tailor these bespoke tours to what you’d like to see. Simply let us know what you’d like when you book, and we’ll match one of our team to your visit.

*****

There’s plenty more options too. Why not sniff at the highs and stinky lows of Colchester’s history on a family-friendly History Stinks Tour.

*****

Private tours cost from £80 per group and can be booked by calling 01206 282939. The booking line is open Monday to Saturday 10am-4.30pm, and Sunday 11am-4.30pm.

Escape At The Castle Reviews

“It’s brilliant”

“This is unique”

“Enjoyed the challenge having never done one before”

“Really enjoyed this experience! Would love to come again”

What's On

Events

Discover something new in Colchester. Browse the diary to find fun, family-friendly events all year round.

Exhibitions + Displays

Our displays showcase the variety of the collections from art to archaeology, costume to clocks.

 

Where will your adventure start?