You are here: What's On > Starlight Grotto

About

Colchester Castle's beloved grotto returns this December with a magical twist! Step into a beautifully illuminated festive setting where the warmth of candlelight (battery-powered, of course) creates a cosy and enchanting atmosphere for families to enjoy.

Children will have the chance to share their Christmas wishes with Father Christmas and receive a special festive gift. Families can also enjoy a comforting treat of hot chocolate or mulled wine, accompanied by a mince pie or cookie.

A wonderful opportunity to add a touch of magic to your festive season and create lasting memories in one of Colchester's most historic settings.

Book Tickets

Guide Prices

Ticket Type	/Ticket Tariff
Child	£15.00 per ticket
Adult	£6.00 per ticket

Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.

Book Tickets Online

Map & Directions

Map Link

Click here to view map

Starlight Grotto

Type:Children's Activity Event

Colchester Castle Museum, Castle Park, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1TJ

Website

Call direct on:

Tel01206 282939

Opening Times

Season (18 Dec 2025)
Day	Times
Thursday	17:30	- 20:30

Season (19 Dec 2025)
Day	Times
Friday	17:30	- 20:30

Season (22 Dec 2025)
Day	Times
Monday	17:30	- 20:30

What's Nearby

Colchester Castle Museum

Colchester Castle is the largest Norman Keep in Europe. Constructed on the foundations of…

0 miles away
Roman Theatre

Discover the foundations of the Roman Theatre, located in Colchester town centre.

0.06 miles away
Hollytrees Museum

Three centuries of fascinating toys, costume, clocks and decorative arts displayed in an…

0.07 miles away
The Minories

The Minories is Colchester's Oldest Art Gallery. Entry is free and there is a range of…

0.08 miles away

Natural History Museum

Get up close to nature as you discover an interesting perspective on the local natural…

0.08 miles away
Roman Wall/Guard Room/Triumphal Arch

Colchester's Roman Wall is the oldest and longest surviving town wall in Britain.

0.11 miles away
Firstsite

Firstsite is an international gallery and creative community space. See the world…

0.15 miles away
Colchester Castle Park

The jewel in Colchester’s crown - an award-winning oasis of horticultural splendour…

0.16 miles away
St Botolphs Priory

12th Century Augustinian priory ruins.

0.23 miles away
Dutch Quarter

This attractive area was home to Flemish Protestant refugees in the 16th Century.

0.23 miles away
St John's Abbey Gate

15th Century flint flushwork gatehouse to St John's Abbey (demolished)

0.32 miles away
Roman Church

Dating from the 4th century AD the foundations of this church near the Police Station…

0.47 miles away
Highwoods Country Park

High Woods Country Park is one of Colchester's beauty spots, ideal for walking, cycling,…

1.12 miles away
Gosbecks Archaeological Park

Gosbecks Archaeological Park is one of the most significant Iron Age and Roman sites in…

2.38 miles away
Colchester Zoological Society

Home to around 180 species and set in 60 acres of parkland and lakes, Colchester…

3.5 miles away
Dedham Vale Vineyard

Dedham Vale Vineyard is set in 40 acres of vines, woods and pasture on the edge of the…

4.41 miles away
Beth Chatto's Plants & Gardens

Covering 6 acres, these beautiful gardens and nursery were created by award-winning…

4.44 miles away
Dedham Art and Craft Centre

Dedham Art & Craft Centre is housed in a converted church in this popular village. The…

6.14 miles away
Poplar Nurseries Ltd

Poplar is proud to have been at the heart of the community for over 80 years. Our roots…

6.39 miles away
East Anglian Railway Museum

For over 50 years the East Anglian Railway Museum has been transporting visitors of all…

6.62 miles away