Colchester Colchester Zoo Hotels

Top reasons to visit Colchester Zoo

• Thrilling Adventure Parks: Colchester Zoo features exciting adventure parks and play centres for families and thrill-seekers.
• Rich Historical Context: Explore nearby attractions like the historic Tower and the modern College University.
• Beautiful Countryside: Discover the stunning countryside and unwind at Alton Water during your visit.
• Diverse Accommodation: A variety of lodging options, from cosy bed and breakfasts to family-friendly hotels, cater to all needs.
• Friendly Atmosphere: Experience the welcoming charm of Colchester, making for a memorable visit.

Find great hotels near Colchester Zoo

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options near Colchester Zoo, catering to every traveller's needs. Whether you prefer a cosy bed and breakfast or a family-friendly hotel, you’ll find pet-friendly options and accessible rooms to ensure a comfortable stay. Experience the charm of Colchester while enjoying convenient access to the zoo and local attractions, making your visit truly memorable.

• Dragonfly Hotel Colchester: Experience comfort and convenience at the Dragonfly Hotel Colchester, a charming 3-star hotel located a mere 9.7km from Colchester Zoo. This hotel offers a delightful dining experience with options including a full breakfast, lunch, and a bar lounge for relaxation. Guests can unwind with entertainment features such as LCD and satellite TVs in their rooms. The hotel’s proximity to the zoo makes it a perfect choice for families and animal lovers looking to enjoy local attractions while indulging in a welcoming atmosphere.
• Holiday Inn Express Braintree by IHG: Ideal for business travellers and pet owners, the Holiday Inn Express Braintree by IHG offers a modern 3-star experience located 20.9km from Colchester Zoo. This hotel is dedicated to inclusivity, being LGBTQIA welcoming and accommodating to pets with specific amenities such as food and water bowls. The property is designed for comfort and productivity, making it a great option for those on the go. Guests appreciate the warm, friendly service and the convenience of being close to essential business facilities.
• Holiday Inn Colchester by IHG: Just 3.2km from Colchester Zoo, the 4-star Holiday Inn Colchester by IHG stands out with its family-friendly and spa-themed environment. This hotel caters to families with children, featuring a playground and essential amenities for younger guests. The full spa service, offering massages, manicures, and a sauna, provides a serene escape for adults. With a focus on relaxation and enjoyment, this property is perfect for families seeking a memorable vacation filled with both adventure and leisure.

Where to stay near Colchester Zoo

Discover the charm of Colchester and its surrounding areas during your visit to Colchester Zoo. Experience the friendly atmosphere of the town, explore the beautiful countryside, or unwind at Alton Water. Just a short drive along the A12, you can delve into the historical richness of Colchester itself, while Aberystwyth in Wales offers a delightful coastal escape. Enjoy a mix of relaxation, history, and natural beauty that makes this region truly enchanting.

• Colchester: As the oldest recorded town in Britain, Colchester boasts a rich history and a vibrant atmosphere. The city is home to the famous Colchester Zoo, which attracts families seeking a fun day out. With educational venues, shopping centres, and scenic parks, there’s plenty to explore. Visitors can enjoy the mix of modern attractions alongside historic sites, including the remains of a Roman wall and the beautiful Colchester Castle. The city’s welcoming vibe makes it a perfect base for your adventures.
• Maldon: Located a mere 17.7km from Colchester Zoo, Maldon is known for its picturesque waterfront and charming streets. The town is perfect for those who love outdoor activities, with numerous recreational areas and a renowned golf course. The historic Maldon Promenade Park is an excellent spot for family outings and offers stunning views of the Blackwater Estuary. The town’s rich heritage is complemented by its urban parks and the nearby national park, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
• Witham: Just 14.5km from Colchester Zoo, Witham is a delightful town that combines family-friendly activities with a lively city atmosphere. Known for its shopping centres and vibrant theatre scene, Witham provides ample entertainment options for visitors of all ages. The town also features a historic racetrack and various historic houses, making it a great place for history buffs. With its excellent transport links and welcoming community, Witham is a fantastic stop on your journey through the region.

Things to do near Colchester Zoo

Colchester Zoo offers a fantastic range of activities for visitors, including thrilling adventure parks and play centres. Nearby, you can enjoy golf and fishing, or indulge in a relaxing spa day. For those seeking more excitement, activity packs can enhance your experience in Essex, making it a perfect destination for travellers looking for adventure and leisure alike.

Shopping

At Colchester Zoo, you can find unique gifts and souvenirs. Assington Barn, located 16.1km away, offers charming local crafts. If you're up for a drive, Braintree Village, 17.7km away, features a variety of shops and entertainment options, while Forest Drive Shops, 30.6km away, has a family-friendly atmosphere.

Recreation

At Colchester Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning landscapes just 3.2km from the zoo. Brightlingsea Open Air Swimming Pool, located 14.5km away, offers a refreshing family-friendly swimming experience. For outdoor fun, visit Wyvernwood Playground, which is 12.9km away and perfect for families.

Adventure

For an exhilarating day out, visit Alton Water, 24.1km from Colchester Zoo, where you can enjoy various water sports amidst stunning scenery. Alternatively, experience the thrill of motor racing at Foxhall Stadium, located 33.8km away, or test your skills at Rayleigh Indoor Karting Stadium, 35.4km away.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Colchester Zoo with a visit to the Mercury Theatre for a touch of culture and romance, or enjoy thrilling adventures at Xtreme Gaming. For a family-friendly evening, catch a film at Cineworld Braintree, perfect for entertainment and shared moments.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Colchester Zoo

To save money on your visit to Colchester Zoo, consider travelling between December and February when accommodation prices are lower, and aim for a Thursday stay for the best rates. Utilize Expedia's search tool to find eco-friendly hotels and sort options from lowest to highest price. Additionally, look for package deals that combine your hotel, flights, and activities for greater savings. Remember, avoiding weekends, particularly Saturdays, can help you keep costs down while enjoying this award-winning attraction.

• 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 July to September, 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 tailor your options according to your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will reveal sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Colchester Zoo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Colchester Zoo

Whether you seek culture, family fun, or outdoor experiences, Colchester Zoo and its surroundings offer a variety of attractions to explore. Popular points of interest include the historic Tower, the modern College University, and charming private gardens. These sites provide an enriching experience for all types of travellers, ensuring a memorable visit to this vibrant area of England.

• University of Essex: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this modern university, just 8.0km from Colchester Zoo. With its stunning architecture and lively campus life, it's a great place to explore educational innovation and enjoy the city vibes.
• Colchester Castle Park: Situated 6.4km away, this beautiful private garden offers a tranquil retreat amidst friendly locals. Immerse yourself in the historical significance of the area while enjoying scenic walks and picturesque views.
• Layer Marney Tower: Just 4.8km from the zoo, this historic tower is a true gem of culture. Climb to the top for breathtaking views and delve into the rich history that surrounds this remarkable structure.

Best time to go to Colchester Zoo

The best time to visit Colchester Zoo is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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	Average
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	Slightly High
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 conveniently accessible from several major airports. London Stansted Airport (STN) is situated 38.6km away and offers excellent accommodation options such as the 5-star Linden Stansted, 4.8km from the airport, and the 4-star Radisson Blu, just 322m away. London Luton Airport (LTN), 83.7km from the zoo, features the luxurious Luton Hoo Hotel, 3.2km from the airport, and the 4-star London Luton Vale Hotel, also 3.2km away. Lastly, London City Airport (LCY), located 43.2km from Colchester Zoo, provides nearby stays like the 5-star Sea Containers London, 11.3km away, and the 5-star Canary Riverside Plaza Hotel, 4.8km distant.