Greyfriars Hotel Colchester Exterior photoGreyfriars Hotel Colchester Exterior photoGreyfriars Hotel Colchester Exterior photo
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From158US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

High Street, Colchester, United Kingdom
-
Close to The Castle Museum
Great
8.8
9.3
/10
4.5
4.5
/5

Rooms & Suites

Greyfriars offers 26 luxuriously appointed bedrooms, including Grand Luxe Signature Suites, Deluxe Suites, and Junior Suites. Each room incorporates exquisite marble bathrooms or shower rooms, meeting 5-star standards. The Courtyard Suite stands out with its spacious private courtyard garden designed for guests with accessibility needs.

Dining Experience

The hotel provides a wide variety of dining options, including breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and evening dining. Guests can enjoy meals from the brasserie menu in comfortable lounges or on the terrace when weather permits. Alongside fine dining, Greyfriars offers a unique Afternoon Tea experience served on Royal Crown Derby China.

Location & Accessibility

Greyfriars is situated at the top of East Hill, adjacent to Colchester's High Street and the Cultural Quarter. This location provides easy access to historic sites like Colchester Castle and various local shops and galleries. The hotel ensures convenient access for all guests, with wheelchair-accessible entrances and a designated lift.

Private Events

Greyfriars serves as a refined venue for private dinners, meetings, and special occasions, accommodating groups up to 18 in The Salon. This beautifully restored room features original C18th elements alongside modern conveniences. Reception spaces and terrace areas are also available for memorable gatherings.

Leisure and Relaxation

The hotel boasts a heated Cigar Lounge located in a charming courtyard, where guests can unwind in a congenial atmosphere. For those seeking a relaxed environment, the Baroque Bar offers a wide selection of cocktails and vintage wines. The terrace encourages leisurely moments during warmer months.

Highlights

Location: Adjacent to Colchester's High Street

Rooms: 26 luxuriously appointed bedrooms

Dining: Wide variety of menus including Afternoon Tea

Private Events: Venue for gatherings accommodating up to 18

Accessible: Wheelchair-accessible entrances and amenities

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll through Castle Park for stunning views of Colchester Castle.
  • Try the fish and chips at The Old Qube for a tasty local classic.
  • Visit the first-century Roman ruins at Colchester Castle Museum.
  • Discover the Colchester Arts Centre for fantastic live performances.
  • Explore the unique shops at the Lion Walk shopping center.
View all

Select your room type

Greyfriars Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Deluxe King Suite
2 persons
435 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Superior King Suite
2 persons
585 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Standard King Room
2 persons
205 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Junior Suite
2 persons
380 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Greyfriars Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.0/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Lift
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's menu

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Mini-bar
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Sitting area
  • Dressing area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At Greyfriars, guests are invited to indulge in a range of British culinary delights across charming dining spaces. From the elegant Cloisters restaurant to the historic Baroque Bar, each venue focuses on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, creating authentic experiences in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Greyfriars Hotel Colchester Restaurant photo
Greyfriars Hotel Colchester Restaurant photo
Greyfriars Hotel Colchester Restaurant photo

Cloisters Restaurant

British
Ambiance
An elegant setting with terrace seating, perfect for intimate meals and gatherings, surrounded by lush planting.
Key Offerings
Features a table d'hôte and à la carte menu, with starters averaging around £10 and mains around £20. Sample exquisite local ingredients such as Mersea Island oysters and sumptuous Dingley Dell pork.
Reservation
Recommended
Serves lunch and dinner; hours vary.

Baroque Bar

British
Ambiance
Nestled in the original C18th core of Greyfriars, this bar offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploration.
Key Offerings
Enjoy a curated selection of cocktails and fine wines, complemented by an exquisite small plates menu that reflects regional flavors.
Reservation
Not needed
Hours vary; typically open for lunch, dinner, and drinks.

Venetian Lounge

British
Ambiance
A sophisticated lounge area with a luxurious feel, perfect for enjoying a quiet afternoon or an evening with friends.
Key Offerings
Serve afternoon tea with the lightest scones accompanied by rich strawberry preserve, along with a diverse drink menu to suit every palate.
Reservation
Recommended
Hours vary; typically open for afternoon tea and snacks.

Library Lounge

British
Ambiance
A tranquil and intimate setting adorned with books and comfortable seating, ideal for quiet reflection or casual meetings over refreshments.
Key Offerings
Features light bites and a selection of fine teas and coffees, enhancing the relaxing atmosphere of the lounge.
Reservation
Not needed
Hours vary; typically open throughout the day.

Greyfriars Hotel Location

High Street, Colchester, United Kingdom
Map view
High Street, Colchester, United Kingdom
Nearby
Museum
Hollytrees Museum
1000 ft
Museum
The Castle Museum
1400 ft
High Street Cowdrey Crescent
Colchester War Memorial
200 ft
Gallery
firstsite
600 ft
One Castle Park Right in front of the Castle
The Claudius Gateway
600 ft
Church
St. Botolph's Priory
1100 ft
Church
St Helen's Chapel
900 ft
74 High Street
The Minories Galleries
100 ft
High Street
Colchester's Natural History Museum
400 ft
Town Hall High Street
Colchester Town Hall
1700 ft
Church
Lion Walk United Reformed Church
1200 ft
Dutch Quarter Apartments West Stockwell Street
Dutch Quarter
1500 ft
St. Johns Thorrington Road
St. John's Abbey Gate
1700 ft
63 High Street
Xtreme Gaming
500 ft
East Stockwell Street
Peake's House
1400 ft
4-11 Trinity Street
Holy Trinity Church
1400 ft
11A Eld Lane
The South Lanes
1500 ft
Restaurants
The Minories Garden Cafe
200 ft
74 High Street
The Batte-Lay Tea Room
200 ft
74 High Street The Minories
Prezzo
400 ft
1 Culver Street East
Mirra
500 ft
98 High Street
Kimchi House
500 ft
2A Queen Street
Maharani Restaurant
700 ft
102 High Street
Three Wise Monkeys Colchester
700 ft
60 High Street
Kaspas
600 ft
61-62 High Street
Mamma Mia Restaurant & Pizzeria
700 ft
5-7 Museum Street
Foresters Arms
900 ft
Castle Road
Explore Colchester
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Hollytrees Museum
Hollytrees Museum
4 minutes' walk
Local history exhibitions in a Georgian mansion, featuring unique artifacts and free admission on select days.
Colchester Castle
Colchester Castle
25 minutes' walking
An impressive Norman castle housing a museum with Roman relics, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
The Castle Museum
The Castle Museum
5 minutes' walk
Offers engaging displays on Colchester's rich past, including artifacts from the Roman period.
Colchester Zoo
10 minutes' drive
Award-winning zoo with diverse wildlife and a focus on conservation; great for family outings.
Highwoods Country Park
Highwoods Country Park
35 minutes' walking
Expansive park ideal for walking and cycling, offering wildlife and nature trails for all skill levels.
Aqua Springs
Aqua Springs
20 minutes' walking
An indoor aquapark featuring slides and pools, perfect for families; advance booking recommended.
Bike Rentals
10 minutes' walk
Local shops provide bike rentals for exploring the scenic countryside; ideal for adventure seekers.
Prezzo
Prezzo
2 minutes' walk
Modern Italian cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere; known for its pizzas and pasta dishes. Reservations recommended.
Mirra
Mirra
2 minutes' walk
A stylish eatery offering a fusion of Mediterranean and Asian flavors; great for both casual lunches and dinner.
The Batte-Lay Tea Room
The Batte-Lay Tea Room
1 minute's walk
Charming café known for its afternoon tea and homemade cakes; vegetarian options available.
Colchester Arts Centre
Colchester Arts Centre
10 minutes' walk
A vibrant venue for live music, comedy, and theater; hosts regular events suitable for all ages.
The Old Court Theatre
9 minutes' drive
Intimate theatre presenting local performances, including plays and musicals; perfect for culture lovers.
Getting around
City Centre
Colchester4 min  ·  1000 ft
Airports
London Stansted (STN)81 min  ·  33.5 mi
London Southend (SEN)100 min  ·  41.1 mi
Train
Colchester Town Railway Station5 min  ·  1400 ft
Colchester Railway Station18 min  ·  5000 ft
Bus
Bus stop2 min  ·  400 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP17.50 per person per day. 
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 2. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
26

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Greyfriars Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 897 verified reviews
8.8/10
Great
90%
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.3/10
Comfort
9.3/10
Facilities
9.0/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.9/10
Location
9.4/10
Staff
9.1/10
Value for money
8.6/10
Guest reviews
based on 897 reviews
8.8/10
based on 1888 reviews
8.8/10
Oliver from United Kingdom
Business traveller
Superior King Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 16, 2026
8.7/10

Excellent High Street Stay

complimentary minibarfriendly staffoutside terrace
I received a complimentary minibar with soft drinks. Breakfast featured efficient service and friendly staff. The housekeeping staff provided great service too. A spacious outside terrace area was also accessible. I also appreciated the free parking.
The restaurant experience was disappointing. It did not quite meet expectations.
Service
9/10
Staff was very helpful upon arrival. They accommodated my request to book an additional night, upgrading my room, and assisted with luggage. Servers were friendly during breakfast, with the front desk arranging transport upon my departure.
Dining
8/10
The breakfast selection included various options. Service at breakfast and the bar was both efficient and friendly. Afternoon tea service was also available. I found these options to be quite suitable to my tastes.
Facilities
9/10
The hotel features a free, easily accessible car park, convenient. The bedroom was spacious. The bathroom included sufficient storage. A large outside terrace area provides additional space to relax and unwind.
0 Helpful
|
Show less
Parker from United Kingdom
Couple
Superior King Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 07, 2026
6/10

Acceptable experience with MINOR inconveniences

large bathroomcomplimentary toiletriesnice decorpoor drainageflooding roomrunning toilet
The bathroom was a lovely LARGE size. It included complimentary toiletries and i found that to be a nice touch. I also noticed the dining room had great decor. The bars were decorated to a high standard with really good comfort.
The shower did NOT drain away properly. It practically flooded the room, a situation I had to resolve with towels. THE toilet made noise. When flushed, it didn't stop running unless we pumped the flush to get it to stop.
0 Helpful
Luna from Spain
Couple
Superior King Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 21, 2025
6/10

Balanced experience

lovely roomcentral locationroom upgradeunavailable optionsheating problemflushing problem
My room was quite lovely. I received an upgrade upon arrival. The location was central, placing me close to various points of interest (very practical).
I found the late-night room service options were not available. The heating in my bedroom did not work. The lavatory had a constant flushing problem. It required a specific technique to stop it.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Greyfriars
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Greyfriars?
Check-in is available from 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
What distance is Greyfriars from Colchester Town Centre?
Greyfriars is located 1 km from Colchester Town Centre.
What popular landmarks are near Greyfriars?
Nearby landmarks include Colchester Castle (0.3 km), Hollytrees Museum (0.5 km), and the Natural History Museum (0.5 km).
Is parking available at Greyfriars?
Free private parking is available on-site without the need for a reservation.
What are the dining options available at Greyfriars?
Greyfriars features an on-site restaurant serving British cuisine, along with a bar/lounge area.
What room amenities can guests expect at Greyfriars?
Rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, coffee machines, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries.
What breakfast options are available at Greyfriars?
A continental or buffet breakfast is available each morning for an additional charge of £17.
Is there a business center at Greyfriars?
Yes, Greyfriars provides a business center for guests.
What unique features does Greyfriars offer?
The hotel boasts a blend of historic and contemporary architecture, as well as a range of luxuriously appointed bedrooms.
What are the accessible features available at Greyfriars?
Greyfriars offers wheelchair access to multiple areas, including designated disabled parking bays.
What entertainment options are provided for children at Greyfriars?
Greyfriars offers a children's menu and cots upon request for families traveling with young children.

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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room