Balkerne Gate in Colchester: Walking Through Britain’s Roman Past

Introduction

In the heart of Colchester, Britain’s oldest recorded town, stands the Balkerne Gate—a breathtaking reminder of Roman engineering and history. Once the grand western entrance to Roman Colchester, this monumental gateway dates back nearly 2,000 years and remains the largest surviving Roman gateway in Britain.

Walking through Balkerne Gate isn’t just about admiring old stonework—it’s about stepping into a story that connects ancient Rome with modern England. You can still see the massive flint and brick structure, including two of its original arches. Standing before it, it’s easy to imagine Roman soldiers marching through, merchants bringing goods into town, and citizens passing beneath its towering presence.

Today, the gate forms part of Colchester’s vibrant townscape, blending ancient ruins with lively streets. It’s a must-see for anyone exploring the city’s rich history. Whether you’re fascinated by Roman Britain, love architecture, or simply enjoy uncovering hidden corners of old towns, Balkerne Gate offers a rare and unforgettable experience.

What is Balkerne Gate in Colchester famous for?

Balkerne Gate is famous for being the largest surviving Roman gateway in Britain. Built in the 1st century AD, it served as the western entrance to the Roman town of Camulodunum (modern-day Colchester).

Why should you visit Balkerne Gate in Colchester?

You should visit Balkerne Gate because it:

Offers a unique glimpse into Roman Britain through remarkably preserved architecture.

Provides a perfect spot for history lovers and photographers.

Connects directly to Colchester’s broader story as the first Roman capital in Britain.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit Balkerne Gate?

Opening Hours: Balkerne Gate is outdoors and freely accessible 24/7.

Best Times to Visit:

Morning or late afternoon: Softer light makes the stonework especially photogenic.

Weekdays: Quieter, with fewer passersby.

Summer months: When guided walking tours often include the gate.

How much does it cost to visit Balkerne Gate in Colchester?

Visiting Balkerne Gate is completely free. It’s a public monument, open to everyone at any time of day.

What can you see or do at Balkerne Gate in Colchester?

At Balkerne Gate, you can:

Admire the Roman stone and brickwork, including the preserved double archway.

Imagine the scale of the original gateway, which would have had four archways in total.

Take photos of one of Colchester’s most iconic Roman landmarks.

Explore the surrounding historic streets, full of pubs, shops, and cafés.

What is the history behind Balkerne Gate in Colchester?

The Balkerne Gate was constructed around AD 70–96, during the rebuilding of Colchester after the Boudican revolt. It marked the western entrance to the Roman colonia of Camulodunum, the first capital of Roman Britain.

The gate originally featured four arched passageways, making it one of the grandest Roman gateways in the country. Today, only two arches remain, but they still convey the monument’s scale and significance.

Over the centuries, parts of the structure were incorporated into later buildings, helping to preserve them. Today, Balkerne Gate stands as a proud reminder of Colchester’s Roman origins and its importance in British history.

Where is Balkerne Gate located and how do you get there?

📍 Location: Balkerne Hill, Colchester, CO3 3AA, United Kingdom

By Train: A 15-minute walk from Colchester Town railway station.

By Bus: Several local bus routes stop nearby.

By Car: Parking is available at Colchester town center car parks.

On Foot: Easy to reach from Colchester Castle and other Roman landmarks.

Insider Tips for Visiting Balkerne Gate in Colchester

📸 For the best photos, stand back along Balkerne Hill to capture the scale of the arches.

🚶 Pair your visit with a walking tour of Colchester’s Roman walls, which connect directly to the gate.

🍺 Stop by the Hole in the Wall pub, right beside the gate—it offers a cozy spot with history at its doorstep.

Nearby Attractions to Balkerne Gate in Colchester

Colchester Castle – A Norman fortress built on the foundations of a Roman temple.

Colchester Roman Wall – Sections of the defensive wall still circle the town.

Hollytrees Museum – A free museum exploring Colchester’s local history.

Firstsite Gallery – A striking modern art gallery showcasing contemporary exhibitions.

Colchester Natural History Museum – Perfect for families and curious minds.

Discover Balkerne Gate with Questo

The Balkerne Gate in Colchester isn’t just a ruin—it’s a time portal to Roman Britain, where the past and present meet in the heart of England’s oldest recorded town.

With Questo, you can turn your visit into an adventure. Solve puzzles, uncover hidden stories, and walk the same routes Romans once did—all while exploring Colchester in an interactive, fun way.

👉 Download the Questo app today and bring Colchester’s Roman history to life!