Tickets*

Adult (inc. Seniors): £5
Child (aged 4-16): £3.50
Student: £4
Reduced rate: £4
Saver (2 adults + 2-3 children): £15
Saver (1 adult + 3-4 children): £15

* During temporary exhibitions, a small additional charge may apply to help cover the costs of delivering these special exhibitions.

New prices as of 1 April 2026. Please see Ticket FAQs below for further pricing queries.

Visiting for a day?
Buy a day ticket for single entry to Hollytrees Museum. If you want to visit Hollytrees + Castle, you can save with a joint day ticket.

Why is there an additional exhibition charge?
During some temporary exhibitions, an additional charge applies to help cover the costs of bringing special exhibitions to Hollytrees Museum. This allows us to continue presenting new exhibitions while supporting the museum’s wider programme.

Are these the prices for group visits too?
These prices apply to general visitors. If you are booking as a group of 12 or more, please book in advance by calling 01206 282937 or emailing museums@colchester.gov.uk.

Who qualifies for a reduced rate ticket?
Reduced rate tickets are available for visitors who are registered D/deaf or disabled, receive welfare benefits, or are serving military personnel. Proof of eligibility may be requested on entry.

Do carers need to book a ticket?
No. Each disabled ticket includes complimentary entry for one carer, and they do not need to book separately.

Can reduced or student rates be used with saver tickets?
No. Saver tickets cannot be combined with reduced rate or student pricing.

What’s the difference between a joint ticket and an Annual Pass?
A joint ticket is for visiting both museums in one day and is best for a single visit. An Annual Pass costs more upfront but gives unlimited entry for a year, making it better value if you plan to visit again.

Can I visit both Colchester Castle and Hollytrees Museum with one ticket?
Yes. A joint day ticket gives you entry to both Colchester Castle and Hollytrees Museum and is usually cheaper than buying separate tickets. Both sites must be visited on the same day, and tickets are available online.

Do I need to book a timed ticket?
No, but we strongly recommend it to prevent disappointment. Due to the limited capacity of the museum’s historic Georgian galleries, timed entry is currently essential. Four 1.5‑hour timed slots are available Monday to Saturday. A limited number of spaces each day are reserved for Museum Pass holders and Guardian Members. Early booking is strongly recommended due to high demand.

If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for here, please refer to our Terms and Conditions page for more detailed information.

Guided Walking Tours

Step into over 2,000 years of history with a guided walking tour led by Colchester’s official city guides. From Roman Camulodunum to the Civil War and beyond, explore the dramatic events that shaped Britain’s first city. Tours start at the Visitor Information Centre in Hollytrees Museum and run every Saturday. Find out more and book your place at Visit Colchester.

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Pre-School Guide

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50 Ways to Play

Who’s up for some fun?!

Check out our amazing ’50 Ways to Play’ challenge sheet. It’s packed full of ideas for things to do as you explore Hollytrees Museum, the Natural History Museum and Colchester’s Castle Park. There’s fun for all the family, from 1 to 100 years old!

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Shop

Our museum shop offers a wide range of products, from Tiptree jams and chutneys to prints of Colchester, vintage toys to local books. Whether you’re looking for a memento or the perfect gift, we have something for all tastes and budgets.