With its rich history dating back more than 2000 years, Colchester is no doubt one of the jewels of the country.

It has long been known as Britain’s oldest recorded town which makes it a desirable place for visitors with its Roman ruins, Medieval buildings, beautiful parks and art venues.

If you are planning a trip to our historic town, we have made a list with the best hotels in and around Colchester, according to TriAdvisor.

The following hotels have been selected based on their reviews on TripAdvisor and received the most four to five star reviews.

Pheasant Suites Country Farm House, Elmstead Market

The suites are situated in the grounds of the non-working Balls Farm.

The 17th century Farm House is surrounded by fields and wildlife which makes it the perfect place for a getaway in Colchester.

On TripAdvisor it says it "is the personal touches that help to make this place special" with "everything needed for a relaxing stay”.

The suites have 617 excellent reviews on the website.

One of them read: “ If you want a peaceful, secluded spot with attention to detail, extra personal added touches and the most amazing bath I’ve ever seen then this is the place! From the moment you park your car everything is immaculate, welcoming and relaxing.”

Baye House, in West Stockwell Street, Colchester

This is the perfect place for you if you are looking for a place just a few steps away from the High Street shops and restaurants.

It is only a short walk away from museums, the First Site Gallery, the Mercury Theatre and the Arts Centre.

One review said: “Wonderful town house in the old Dutch Quarter. A luxurious boutique style time capsule beautifully restored but not overdone. Comfortable and welcoming with friendly, relaxed but excellent service from the house team of housekeeper and gardener - lovely breakfast, clean and fabulous bathrooms.”

The Baye House has received 27 excellent reviews.

Wivenhoe House, Wivenhoe

This beauty spot, which was awarded Tripadvisor Travellers Choice 2021, offers incredible balcony rooms with breathtaking views of the picturesque countryside.

The small town of Wivenhoe is only a five-minute drive or half-an-hour walk from the hotel, with the Colchester centre being ten minutes away by car.

One recent review said: “ First impression of Wivenhoe is that it is very easy on the eye, it is a lovely building. A building, I might add, with an interesting history from the Peninsular War to being SAS base during WW2. We were welcomed at Reception by a very friendly, informative member of staff. Our room was large, comfortable and very well appointed with a beautiful bathroom which was immaculately clean.”

The Wivenhoe House has 660 excellent reviews.

GreyFriars, High Street, Colchester

The exquisite Michelin Recommended hotel is situated in a stunning Grade II listed building.

The hotel’s description on TripAdvisor says “all rooms are designed and fitted to match 5* standards and feature beautiful marble bathrooms or shower rooms.”

One review on TripAdvisor added: “ There is something special about Greyfriars. With only 26 rooms it always feels exclusive. The staff can make or break a stay in any hotel and they definitely made our stay relaxing and comfortable.”

The hotel has 248 excellent reviews on TripAdvisor.

The North Hill Hotel, Colchester

This 17-bedroom hotel in the heart of Colchester boasts itself on its outstanding team of helpful staff.

The TripAdvisor description says the place is committed on giving a friendly service to all guests “in a way which will surpass any previous expectations of value in the area.”

One review read: “ Wonderful hotel and fabulous restaurant. We had breakfasts and dinner there - great value for money all round.”

The North Hill Hotel received 193 excellent reviews on TripAdvisor.

Colchester Boutique Hotel, North Hill, Colchester

The place is located in a beautiful grade II listed Georgian building in the centre of town.

The vintage decor and elegant surroundings are definitely one of the biggest draws for visitors.

One review said: “ Lovely character to the place and located as central as you would want to be without hearing any noise."

Another added: “ Stayed 4 nights here and thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would highly recommend this gem of a hotel.”

The place received 248 excellent reviews on TripAdvisor.