Colchester: Roman, Ghost & Victorian Walking Tours Choice

Summary

Stories of Colchester’s ghosts, Romans and Victorian secrets

You’ll wander Colchester’s tangled streets with a local guide who brings Roman ruins, ghost tales and Victorian quirks to life. Expect unexpected stories (and maybe chills), access to city landmarks like the old theatre and ‘Jumbo’ tower, plus time for questions or tangents along the way.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I didn’t expect to start my day in Colchester hearing about witches right outside the old Town Hall. Our guide, Richard, just sort of slipped it in while we were waiting for the rest of the group. He pointed at a crooked alley and said, “That’s where they say Agnes disappeared.” The way he said it made me shiver a bit, even though it was barely 11am and the bakery across the street smelled like warm bread. I kept glancing over my shoulder for the next ten minutes.

We picked the Roman tour (though part of me wanted to do the ghost one just for the drama), so after that odd start we wandered down High Street. Richard knew everyone — he waved at a woman selling flowers and she called him “professor,” which made him laugh. We ducked under an archway and suddenly there was this hush; you could almost hear your footsteps echo off old stones. He showed us what’s left of the Roman theatre — honestly, I’d have walked past it without noticing if he hadn’t stopped us. There’s something strange about seeing ancient ruins tucked behind modern shops, like time folding in on itself.

The Victorian bit was almost an accident — we paused by ‘Jumbo’, this gigantic water tower that looks like it landed from another planet. Richard told us how some folks hated it when it was built (“an eyesore,” apparently) but now everyone seems proud of it. The sky turned grey for a minute and you could smell rain coming, but nobody moved; we just stood there listening to stories about how people used to sneak into theatres nearby after work.

By the end, I felt like I’d zigzagged through 2000 years in two hours — Saxons, Normans, Romans all leaving bits behind for us to trip over (sometimes literally). I still think about that alley where Agnes vanished. If you go, ask Richard about her — or maybe don’t if you want to sleep that night.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Colchester's Victorian history

• Discover Colchester's 2000 year history
• Learn industrial revolution's impact
• See 'Jumbo' water tower
• Visit Town Hall
• Explore Victorian pubs and theatres
• Marvel at engineering feats
• Understand Victorian legacy today

Top questions

Which Colchester tours can I choose from?

You can pick between City Tour, Ghost & Witches Tour, Roman Colchester Tour or Victorian Colchester Tour.

Are these walking tours suitable for wheelchairs or strollers?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible and infants can ride in prams or strollers.

Is a local guide included on each tour?

Yes, every tour is led by a fully trained Colchester Council recognized guide who is also a CTGA member.

Do these tours include entry to city landmarks?

You’ll have access to key city landmarks including a Roman theatre during your tour.

How do I confirm my chosen tour and time?

After booking you’ll be contacted directly to confirm your preferred tour type and start time.

Is public transportation nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to the meeting points in Colchester.

What’s included

Your experience includes your choice of themed walking tour—Roman, Ghost & Witches or Victorian—with full access to city landmarks such as the Roman theatre. Each route is guided by an expert recognized by Colchester Council and CTGA. Flexible start times are arranged after booking confirmation.