Local Attractions

Local Attractions...

Colchester and surrounding areas is full of tourist attractions, castles, museums and things to do, along with spectacular Stour valley and Constable country views and coastline.

To make your stay with us at The Swan Inn & Restaurant as memorable as possible, we have compiled below a list of some of the best attractions to be found in our locality..

Further information on local attractions is available from the our local Tourist Information site (www.colchester.co.uk) or Visit Colchester (www.visitcolchester.com).

Colchester Castle

A visit to Colchester Castle Museum takes you through 2000 years of some of the most important events in British history. Once capital of Roman Britain, Colchester has experienced devastation by Boudica (Boadicea), invasion by the Normans and siege during the English Civil War.Since the 16th century, the Castle has been a ruin, a library and a gaol for witches. Today it is an award winning museum featuring many hands-on displays showing Colchester's history from the Stone Age to the Civil War

Visit the Castle Website

Flatford Mill

Flatford Mill is on the River Stour close to the Suffolk-Essex border. The Centre buildings, particularly the Mill and Willy Lott's House, are instantly recognisable since they feature in many paintings by John Constable. Only 10 minutes from the Swan . The Centre offers visitors of all ages a much sought-after sense of tranquillity to complement a unique learning environment.

Visit the Flatford Mill Website

Mistley Key

During Elizabethan days Mistley had a thriving ship-building industry and remains a working quay today. It’s just a stone’s throw along the river from Manningtree town centre and well worth a saunter. For more details log onto www.english-heritage.org.uk