Colchester Hotel Guide - Colchester Zoo hotels in Colchester, United Kingdom.

Top reasons to visit Colchester Zoo

• Thrilling Outdoor Adventures: Experience the Aztec Adventure for exciting outdoor fun suitable for all ages.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local heritage and explore the charming streets of Central Colchester.
• Interactive Entertainment: Enjoy the EyeToy Zone, providing engaging activities for visitors of all ages.
• Varied Accommodation Options: Choose from delightful bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, catering to all preferences.
• Scenic Surroundings: Discover beautiful parkland and nearby attractions for a relaxing escape.

Find great hotels near Colchester Zoo

Discover a range of accommodation options near Colchester Zoo, from charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels. Whether you’re seeking pet-friendly lodgings, family-friendly amenities, or business-themed facilities, you’ll find something to suit your needs. Enjoy peaceful stays with accessible rooms and beautiful views of gardens or quiet streets, ensuring a relaxing getaway in this historic town.

• Dragonfly Hotel Colchester: This 3-star hotel offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience, situated 9.7km from Colchester Zoo. With a modern design, it features a variety of dining options including a restaurant serving lunch and breakfast, as well as a bar for evening relaxation. Guests can unwind with entertainment amenities such as Satellite TV and LCD TVs in their rooms. Its proximity to the zoo makes it an excellent choice for families and wildlife enthusiasts looking for easy access to nearby attractions while enjoying a comfortable stay.
• Holiday Inn Colchester by IHG: A 4-star haven for families and pet lovers, this hotel is located a mere 3.2km from Colchester Zoo. Guests can enjoy a range of family-oriented amenities, including a shared playground and first aid kit for peace of mind. The hotel’s spa services, including massage and facial treatments, offer a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring. With a pet-friendly policy, this establishment caters to guests travelling with dogs, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for the whole family, including your furry friends.
• Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester: This eco-certified 4-star hotel, situated 3.2km from Colchester Zoo, is perfect for environmentally conscious travellers and business guests alike. With ample facilities including multiple meeting rooms and conference spaces, it caters to corporate needs while maintaining a commitment to sustainability. The hotel is also pet-friendly, allowing dogs and cats, with thoughtful amenities provided. Its blend of business facilities and eco-friendly practices makes it a distinguished choice for guests seeking both comfort and conscientious travel options.

Where to stay near Colchester Zoo

Exploring the area around Colchester Zoo offers a delightful mix of experiences, from the friendly atmosphere of Central Colchester to the serene beauty of nearby parkland. Wander through the charming streets of the town centre, where history meets modern business. For a unique outing, visit the local bird farm, perfect for families and nature lovers alike. This region promises a memorable vacation filled with relaxation and adventure.

• Colchester: As one of the oldest recorded towns in Britain, Colchester boasts a rich history and vibrant culture, making it a prime destination for visitors. Located conveniently around Colchester Zoo, this city offers a plethora of family-friendly activities, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Explore the historic castle, enjoy shopping at the local centre, or catch a performance at the theatre. The city is a blend of modern education facilities and historic landmarks, with a lovely beach nearby for those sunny days. The traveller traffic remains steady throughout the year, but peaks in April, July, and September, making it an ideal time to visit for lively events and activities.
• Birch: just 1.6km from Colchester Zoo, Birch is a quaint village that offers a peaceful escape with cultural undertones. The village attracts visitors primarily during the summer months of July and August, as well as in October, when activities like golf and spa experiences are in full swing. Birch is home to historical sites including a stunning tower and an ancient castle, making it a delightful spot for history enthusiasts. With its close proximity to Colchester, it serves as a tranquil retreat after a day of exploring the zoo and surrounding attractions.
• Layer de la Haye: Located 1.6km away from Colchester Zoo, Layer de la Haye is a picturesque village that offers a charming rural experience. The travel patterns here are a bit more seasonal, peaking in April and the autumn months of September to October. Visitors are drawn to its serene environment and the opportunity to explore local history. The village is perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying the countryside, making it a great complement to the more bustling attractions of Colchester and Birch.

Things to do near Colchester Zoo

At Colchester Zoo, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities beyond the fascinating animal exhibits. Explore the Aztec Adventure for thrilling outdoor fun, or unwind at the nearby beauty spots. For those seeking a unique venue, consider the boardroom for meetings, while the EyeToy Zone offers interactive entertainment. As the day winds down, discover the fantastic nightlife that Colchester has to offer, making your visit a memorable experience.

Shopping

While visiting Colchester Zoo, you can enjoy shopping at Assington Barn, located 16.1km away, offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, Braintree Village, 17.7km away, presents a vibrant shopping experience with various shops and entertainment options.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at Colchester Golf Club, just 3.2km from the zoo, surrounded by lush greenery and outdoor vibes. For a family-friendly splash, head to Brightlingsea Open Air Swimming Pool, located 14.5km away, offering a refreshing swimming experience in a delightful setting.

Adventure

Experience thrilling water sports at Alton Water, located 24.1km from Colchester Zoo, offering an exhilarating outdoor atmosphere. For motorsport enthusiasts, Foxhall Stadium, 33.8km away, promises adrenaline-pumping races, while Rayleigh Indoor Karting Stadium, 35.4km distant, delivers an exciting karting adventure for all ages.

Nightlife

In Colchester, Mercury Theatre offers a cultural night out with its captivating performances, just 4.8km from the zoo. For a thrilling experience, Xtreme Gaming AdventureZone is 6.4km away, perfect for adventure seekers. Alternatively, enjoy a romantic film at Cineworld Braintree, located 17.7km from the zoo.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Colchester Zoo

To save money during your visit to Colchester Zoo, consider travelling between December and February when accommodation prices are lower, with Thursdays being the most affordable nights. Avoid weekends, particularly Saturdays, for the best rates. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly hotels, and consider eco-certified options for sustainable stays. Arranging flights and activities as a package on Expedia can also yield significant savings. Lastly, take advantage of local public transport, which is generally affordable, or explore the area on foot to further reduce costs.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Colchester Zoo are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Colchester Zoo is Thursday. The most expensive day to stay around Colchester Zoo is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You may find it cost-effective to combine your hotel reservation for Colchester Zoo with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Colchester Zoo

Colchester Zoo offers a variety of attractions for visitors, including beautiful beaches and historical towers, alongside the modern charm of local colleges and universities. Families can immerse themselves in cultural experiences and outdoor activities, making the zoo a perfect starting point for exploring the rich heritage and natural beauty of the Colchester area. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, there's something for everyone near this wonderful destination.

• University of Essex: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this modern university, located a mere 8.0km from Colchester Zoo. The campus boasts contemporary architecture and a lively student community, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a coffee break.
• Colchester Castle Park: Just 6.4km away, this beautiful private garden offers a serene escape filled with historical significance. Enjoy the lush greenery and friendly locals while exploring the remains of the ancient castle, immersing yourself in its rich past.
• Layer Marney Tower: Situated 4.8km from the zoo, this stunning historic tower embodies the rich culture of the region. Climb to the top for breathtaking views and delve into the intriguing history of this impressive structure.

Best time to go to Colchester Zoo

The best time to visit Colchester Zoo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Colchester Zoo falls in August, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Colchester Zoo falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	44.2°F (6.8°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	48.0°F (8.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
May	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	59.2°F (15.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	63.3°F (17.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	60.1°F (15.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
November	47.7°F (8.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
December	43.0°F (6.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Colchester Zoo

Colchester Zoo is easily accessible via several major airports in the UK. London Stansted Airport (STN) is 38.6km away, with notable hotels such as the 5-star Linden Stansted, a mere 4.8km from the airport, and the 4-star Radisson Blu Hotel, just 322m away. London Luton Airport (LTN), located 83.7km away, offers options like the luxurious Luton Hoo Hotel, 3.2km from the airport, and the 4-star Luton Vale Hotel, also 3.2km away. Finally, London City Airport (LCY) is 43.2km away, with the 5-star Sea Containers London and the Shangri-La The Shard, both within 11.3km. Each hotel provides convenient access to their respective airports.