Colchester Museums is launching a new joint ticket offer giving visitors even more reasons to explore two of its much-loved attractions this summer. Combining entry to Colchester Castle, where Luke Jerram’s Museum of the Moon will be landing on 24 July and Hollytrees Museum, with its popular Discover: Museum Wonders exhibition, the offer provides even more reasons to enjoy a memorable day out.
From 29 June until 30 September 2026, visitors will be able to purchase a single online joint ticket providing entry to both venues on the same day – offering a simple and, in most cases, more cost-effective alternative to buying tickets separately.
This limited-time offer is designed to encourage a full day of discovery, combining the dramatic history of Colchester Castle with the interactive and family-friendly experiences inside Hollytrees Museum – including the standout Discover exhibition.
A Day of History and Discovery
At Colchester Castle, Europe’s largest Norman Keep and one of the region’s leading heritage attractions, visitors can uncover nearly 2,000 years of history, from its Roman foundations to its role as a powerful Norman stronghold. With a unique blend of fascinating displays and the latest technology, there’s plenty for all ages to explore, from discovering the story of Queen Boudica and racing a Roman chariot to venturing into the Castle’s atmospheric prisons or bringing the past to life through an augmented reality tablet tour.
From 24 July, there’s even more to experience as Luke Jerram’s Museum of the Moon arrives at the Castle. Suspended within the historic space, this spectacular six‑metre artwork features detailed NASA imagery of the lunar surface alongside an evocative soundscape, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable encounter with the Moon.
At Hollytrees Museum, visitors can step into the popular Discover: Museum Wonders exhibition, where fascinating objects and stories captivate curious minds of all ages. At its heart is Juliasaurus, the extraordinary 150‑million‑year‑old dinosaur making its world debut in Colchester, alongside a rich collection of artefacts and interactive displays.
Together, these attractions offer an inspiring and varied day out, combining world‑class art, hands‑on discovery and thousands of years of history for the whole family.
How the Offer Works
- Available 29 June – 30 September 2026
- Valid for one-day entry to both venues
- Tickets must be purchased online in advance
- Visitors must attend both sites on the same day
- Excludes Sundays (when Hollytrees Museum is closed)
- Not valid for group bookings
More Value, More to Explore
This joint ticket makes it easier than ever to plan a full day out in Colchester, giving visitors the chance to enjoy two complementary experiences while making a saving.
With timed entry available at Hollytrees Museum for the Discover exhibition, visitors can plan their visit with flexibility and make the most of their day exploring the city’s heritage.
Councillor Darius Laws, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and Environment, said: “We’re really pleased to be offering this joint ticket, which makes it easier and more affordable for visitors to experience both Colchester Castle and Hollytrees Museum in one day.
“With the addition of our exciting Discover exhibition at Hollytrees and Museum of the Moon landing at Colchester Castle next month, there’s even more to see and do. It’s a fantastic opportunity for families and visitors to enjoy a full day of history, discovery and fun.”
Plan Your Visit
With summer set to be a busy season, early online booking is encouraged to take advantage of this special offer.
To find out more about the joint ticket and to book, please visit the Colchester and Ipswich Museums website.