It is the highest number of events since the Museum Service became involved with Heritage Open Days in 1999. This year’s programme includes historic building openings, guided walks and special activities, including a new tour of Colchester’s Victorian Garrison.
New ways to explore Colchester’s history
The new Garrison Walk will explore why the barracks were built, their remarkable architecture and historic events involving those who served there.
Other new additions for 2026 include a guided walk through New Town, tours of Colchester’s Old Library and former law courts and prison cells, and a bell-ringing demonstration at St John the Baptist Church in Layer de la Haye.
Visitors can also walk alongside Britain’s oldest town wall, explore the city’s Roman remains and hear and play the historic Moot Hall organ at Colchester Town Hall.
The Roman Circus Centre, on the site of Britain’s only known Roman chariot-racing track, will be open on Saturday 12 September. Colchester Castle will also offer free entry on that day.
Further afield, visitors can explore The Munnings Art Museum in Dedham, the Nottage Maritime Institute and Museum in Wivenhoe, and Mersea Barrow, where there will be a rare opportunity to step inside a Roman burial mound.
Plan your visit
Some tours and activities require advance booking, and opening arrangements may change. Visitors are encouraged to check the programme before travelling.
Full details, including dates, times, booking information and accessibility details, are available in the official Heritage Open Days leaflet with updates and additional events on the Visit Colchester website.
Cllr Darius Laws, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and the Environment, said: "Heritage Open Days is one of my favourite events in Colchester's calendar because it gives people the chance to experience our incredible history in a completely different way. Whether you're climbing a church tower, exploring Roman archaeology, discovering hidden corners of the Town Hall or joining this year's new Victorian Garrison walk, there's always something that surprises you."
"What makes the event so special is that many of these places aren't normally open to the public, and it's all completely free. Whether you've lived here all your life or are visiting for the first time, Heritage Open Days is a fantastic opportunity to uncover the stories that have shaped Colchester over more than 2,000 years."