Big changes are happening behind the doors of Hollytrees Museum and they’re making way for something truly huge. This Easter, Colchester Museums will unveil its newest blockbuster exhibition, “Discover: Museum Wonders”, and while full details remain under wraps for now, families can expect a breath‑taking prehistoric visitor unlike anything the city has ever seen.
What’s special about the upcoming exhibition?
For the first time in Colchester’s history, a real dinosaur skeleton will take centre stage at Hollytrees Museum. Standing over 6 metres long, this extraordinary creature is being generously loaned and has never been shown publicly anywhere in the world. Even more exciting early research suggests it may even represent a species that’s new to science.
What’s the exhibition all about?
Alongside this star attraction, the exhibition will showcase fascinating fossils and curious objects “discovered” in unexpected places across Colchester’s own collections. From prehistoric remains to magical witch bottles and shoes hidden under floorboards for protection, the exhibition invites families to explore the wonders and mysteries uncovered over centuries.
When will I be able to find out more?
Visitors won’t have to wait long to find out more. A major reveal is coming soon, and Colchester Museums will share the full story during the opening week of the exhibition. Until then, all we can confirm is this: it’s big, it’s ancient, it’s incredibly rare and it has travelled a very long way to meet you.
To be among the first to hear about the big reveal, keep an eye on Colchester Museums’ website and its social media channels.
When and where will exhibition tickets be available?
Due to the limited capacity of the historic Georgian galleries in Hollytrees Museum, timed tickets will be in operation. These will be available to purchase online late March. Early booking is strongly encouraged as we anticipate a level of interest and demand.
Councillor Lee Scordis, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and Environment, said: “We’re incredibly excited to bring this once‑in‑a‑lifetime exhibition to Hollytrees Museum. This will be the first time a dinosaur has ever been displayed in Colchester and our visitors will be the very first in the world to see this remarkable skeleton up close. We can’t reveal all the details just yet, but families should prepare for something truly spectacular.”
Salomon Aaron, Director, David Aaron: “David Aaron is honoured to be a part of the world premiere display of this world-class and potentially ground-breaking dinosaur. This specimen is one of the most important dinosaur fossils to have been discovered in North America in recent years, and the collaboration with Hollytrees Museum has the potential to discover an entirely new species. It’s been wonderful collaborating with the Colchester Museums team, an exemplary regional Museum who work tirelessly to enrich their community.”
Something big is coming. All will be revealed…
Image credit: Mark Witton 2026