Families and visitors are invited to enjoy a summer packed with exciting events, immersive exhibitions and unforgettable experiences at Colchester Museums from 21 July to 2 September 2026.
From hands-on activities and themed workshop days to internationally acclaimed art installations, this year’s programme offers one of the most varied and engaging summer line-ups yet – perfect for keeping all ages entertained across the school holidays.
Out-of-this-world experiences at Colchester Castle
Taking centre stage at Colchester Castle this summer will be Luke Jerram’s Museum of the Moon at Colchester Castle from 24 July.
This spectacular six-metre installation uses detailed NASA imagery and an immersive soundscape, offering a rare chance to experience the Moon up close inside the Castle.
Alongside this, visitors can explore 2,000 years of history and enjoy family-friendly events and activities including, but not limited to:
- Mystical Moon Trail – a fun and imaginative self-guided adventure. Pick up your trail sheet and follow clues as you uncover myths, symbols and stories linked to the Moon and once complete, receive a themed prize to take home.
- Family Tours: Moon, Myth + Superstitions – These special tours explore the myths, legends and superstitions people have shared about the Moon throughout history.
- Costumed Characters – Step back in time and hear stories about life in Britain nearly 2000 years ago! Meet costumed Roman characters, enjoy fun games, and collect a special sticker. Perfect for curious kids of all ages.
- Cosmic Kids Club – Inspired by the Museum of the Moon, this holiday club offers a different mix of activities each week, from creative crafts and quizzes to games, guided exploring around the museum and mini tours.
- Space Day (29 August) – An exciting day of cosmic discovery featuring an immersive planetarium experience and themed activities for young explorers.
- Sensory-friendly openings every Wednesday, ensuring a welcoming experience for all visitors.
Discover and Explore at Hollytrees Museum
At nearby Hollytrees Museum, visitors can step into the engaging Discover: Museum Wonders exhibition, designed to ignite curiosity and creativity.
A star attraction is Juliasaurus, the remarkable 150‑million‑year‑old dinosaur making its debut in Colchester, alongside a wealth of objects that reveal surprising stories from the past.
Activities include:
- Hollytrees Dino Trail – Set off on a dino-themed adventure. Pick up your trail sheet and discover dinosaurs, solve simple challenges and enjoy a fun, self-guided activity at your own pace. Perfect for children aged 2–5.
- Dinosaur craft sessions – Drop-in and enjoy a fun, creative session where young dino fans can design and build their very own roaring creation.
Set within a beautiful Georgian townhouse in Castle Park, Hollytrees offers a relaxed and welcoming environment for younger visitors to learn through exploration and play.
Nature and Creativity at the Natural History Museum
At the Natural History Museum, visitors can enjoy free-entry activities celebrating wildlife and the natural world, including:
- Fossil Fun Worksheets – enjoy a range of dinosaur and fossil-themed colouring sheets and activity worksheets.
- Under 5s Dino Craft & Storytelling (4 & 18 August) – a friendly, relaxed mix of dinosaur-themed craft and interactive storytelling, with songs, simple activities and the chance to meet a playful dinosaur.
Councillor Darius Laws, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and Environment, said: "This summer's programme offers something for everyone, from the spectacular Museum of the Moon to dinosaur adventures and hands-on family activities. We're proud to provide experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity and discovery while showcasing Colchester's rich heritage and cultural attractions."
Make the Most of Your Visit
Visitors can also take advantage of a Joint Ticket (available until 30 September), offering entry to both Colchester Castle and Hollytrees Museum on the same day – ideal for planning a full day of discovery.
For those planning multiple visits, the Colchester Museums Pass offers excellent value, with unlimited access to all three museums for a whole year – perfect for enjoying everything the summer programme has to offer and beyond.
Plan Your Visit
From standing beneath the Moon to uncovering hidden stories, meeting a dinosaur and getting creative, Colchester Museums offers one of Essex’s most engaging family days out this summer.
Find out more and book online at www.colchester.cimuseums.org.uk/events