Holiday Inn Colchester | Indoor Pool & Free Parking

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Holiday Inn Colchester By Ihg Exterior photo

Holiday Inn Colchester By Ihg Room photo

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Key details

Hotel Overview and Details

Abbotts Lane - Eight Ash Green, Colchester, CO6 3QL

Near Colchester Zoo

Great

8.2

8.4

/10

4.8

3.6

Loved by Holiday Inn Colchester By Ihg guests

Free parking

Clean swimming pool

Great breakfast

Accessible room

Helpful staff

"The food was the best and the Swimming pool was great"

Paul from United Kingdom

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"The breakfast was excellent and they served possibly the nicest sausages i've tasted in a long time."

David S from United Kingdom

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"The fitness area, sauna, and locker room was spacious and tidy."

Carrie

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3-star Accommodation with Family-Friendly Offers

Amenities

Holiday Inn Colchester offers guests free parking and complimentary Wi-Fi during their stay. The hotel also features a You Fit Health Club, which includes an indoor pool, gym, sauna, and steam room. Guests can unwind at the Traders Bar and Grill, which serves a variety of meals throughout the day.

Rooms

The hotel has 110 comfortable rooms equipped with power showers and a choice of pillows to enhance sleep quality. Family rooms are available, accommodating up to four guests with a sofa bed option. For added convenience, room service is provided, along with daily housekeeping.

Location

Situated off the A12, the hotel provides direct access to major routes connecting to London and Ipswich. Historic Colchester is a 10-minute drive away, where guests can explore local shops and restaurants. Colchester Zoo and picturesque Dedham Vale are within a short driving distance.

Business Facilities

With seven flexible event rooms, the hotel can accommodate meetings and functions for up to 120 people. Each room features natural light and complimentary Wi-Fi, as well as AV equipment for presentations. The location is convenient for business travelers visiting Tollgate Business Park.

Family-Friendly Options

Children up to 17 years stay for free when sharing their parents' room, enhancing affordability for families. Up to two kids aged 12 and under can eat free from the main menu, making dining more accessible. On-site activities and a variety of dining options cater to family needs.

Highlights

Parking: Free parking available

Room Count: 110 comfortable rooms

Dining: Traders Bar and Grill offers diverse menu

Wellness: Indoor pool and You Fit Health Club

Business: Event rooms for up to 120 guests

Family-Friendly: Kids stay and eat free policy

Must-do experiences

Explore Castlepark, a serene oasis with beautiful gardens.
Taste the fresh seafood at the Colchester Fish Market on Saturdays.
Visit the amazing Colchester Castle for rich local history.
Discover the hidden gem, Hollytrees Museum, filled with local artifacts.
Enjoy a stroll along the River Colne and spot local wildlife.

Location: Great

8.7/10Review score

View Hotel Location on Map

Highlights from guests

Children's AmenitiesKid-Friendly Fun

My kids loved the Peppa Pig corner. The pool even had toys and noodles for them to play with, creating memorable moments.

Emily Carter from United Kingdom

Review on

Guest ParkingEasy Parking

Parking was so easy. There was plenty of space and registering the car at reception was quick and simple.

James O'Connell from Ireland

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Spa & LeisurePoolside Bliss

The pool was great for a short stay. I especially enjoyed the steam room and sauna, but the jacuzzi wasn't working.

Kenji Tanaka from Japan

Review on

DiningBreakfast Bonanza

The breakfast was excellent, with gluten-free options and a separate toaster. There was also a wide variety of cereals.

Alice Smith from Australia

Review on

Choose Your Room Category

The hotel offers a range of accommodations including doubles, family rooms, and suites—plus breakfast, free cancellation, and special rates.

Standard Twin Room Disability Access
2 persons
15 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Heating
Shower
room details
Standard Double Room
2 persons
13 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Standard Room Two Single Beds
2 persons
13 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Heating
Shower
room details

Show all rooms

Room Availability and Pricing Calendar

Find available rooms and check today's best prices!

August 2026 - August 2027

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August 2026

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

This hotel provides premium amenities for a memorable and relaxed stay

Facilities: Great

8.3/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Golf course
Yoga class
Sports trainer

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Pet amenities available
Room service
Housekeeping
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Picnic area/ Tables
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Board games
Children's menu
Children's play area

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Indoor swimming pool
Garden area
Sauna
Steam room
Jacuzzi
Shallow end

Room features

Heating
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries
Sink

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At the Holiday Inn Colchester, dining revolves around a warm and inviting atmosphere where British cuisine shines. From hearty breakfasts to comforting dinners, guests are treated to delicious meals in a family-friendly setting that welcomes travelers of all kinds.

Trader's Bar and Grill
British comfort food
Ambiance
Relaxed and informal, perfect for families and solo diners alike, with traditional features that evoke a welcoming feel.
Key Offerings
Savor modern British dishes such as classic fish and chips, with options for gluten-free meals available. The restaurant also features a family-friendly offer where up to two kids under 12 eat free from the main menu. Guests can enjoy two large pizzas and four drinks, making it a great option for family gatherings.
Reservation
No
Breakfast and Dinner, specific hours may vary.

Location

Abbotts Lane - Eight Ash Green, Colchester, CO6 3QL

Explore Colchester

Local Highlights

Colchester Zoo

40 minutes walking, 9 minutes driving

Wildlife park featuring over 260 species, interactive exhibits, and conservation efforts-perfect for family outings.

All Saints

8 minutes walking

Charming 19th-century church known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings, ideal for a quiet visit.

Gosbecks Archaeological Park

35 minutes walking, 10 minutes driving

Historic site with Roman ruins and scenic trails, offering educational insights into the area's rich history.

Lexden Wood Golf Club

35 minutes walking, 10 minutes driving

Beautiful 18-hole golf course nestled in nature, suitable for all skill levels and providing a tranquil outdoor experience.

Hiking at Lexden Heath

35 minutes walking, 10 minutes driving

Scenic hiking trails surrounded by nature, providing great views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Colchester Castle Park

40 minutes walking, 10 minutes driving

Relaxing park offering walking paths, picnic spots, and a children's play area-perfect for families and leisurely strolls.

Harvester Stanway

17 minutes walking, 5 minutes driving

Casual dining with a focus on grill dishes and a salad bar; family-friendly atmosphere with vegetarian options available.

The Dog and Pheasant

30 minutes driving

Traditional British pub serving local ales, classic dishes, and a cozy setting, ideal for a relaxed meal or drink.

Colchester Arts Centre

10 minutes driving

Live music venue showcasing local talent, theater performances, and art exhibitions-ideal for culture lovers.

The Old Victualler

20 minutes driving

Lively pub known for quiz nights and informal entertainment; a great spot for socializing among locals and visitors.

Navigating city

City Centre
Colchester 8 min · 2.9 mi
Airports
London Stansted (STN) 72 min · 29.6 mi
London Southend (SEN) 90 min · 37.2 mi
Train
Colchester Railway Station 8 min · 3.0 mi
Colchester Town Railway Station 9 min · 3.5 mi
Bus
Bus stop 3 min · 700 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

from 07:00-11:00

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

The hotel offers a full breakfast at the price of GBP16.95 per person per day.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Languages

English, German, French, Polish, Lithuanian, Latvian

Number of rooms:

Former name

holiday inn colchester, an ihg hotel

Guest Reviews and Hotel Ratings

Honest Guest Feedback Based on Real Stays

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Guests frequently highlight the spacious rooms at Holiday Inn Colchester, which come equipped with amenities like a TV and kettle. The health suite, featuring a pool, sauna, and steam room, is a popular amenity. The breakfast offers a great choice of food, although some guests have noted occasional noise issues from outside.

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Review score

Based on 1409 verified reviews

8.0 /10

Great

80 %

Recommend

Staff

8.9/10

Location

8.7/10

Paid Wi-Fi

7.3/10

Value for money

8.1/10

Pros

Free parking

Friendly staff

Great breakfast

Clean swimming pool

Comfy beds

Cons

Booking issues

Broken coffee machine

Tom from United Kingdom

Business traveller

Standard Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 15, 2026

7/10

Adequate Stay

clean towels cardio machines gluten-free options soundproofing overhead light room shade

The gym have several cardio machines. I found clean towels available. The restaurant provided a good selection of pastries and cooked items. The breakfast buffet include gluten-free options.

The room lacked of soundproofing. There aren't any overhead light in the main room. This makes it hard to prepare in the morning because the room was in shade.

0 Helpful

Jonathan from United Kingdom

Family with children

Standard Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 07, 2026

9.0/10

Excellent Hotel Stay

cute staff dog friendly quality food

The staff were very cute. I appreciated that it was a dog friendly hotel and will return with my dog. Breakfast included quality food with a large selection and vegan options. There were also many towels plus tea and coffee in the room.

The doors do slam loudly. This woke us up a few times during the night.

Service

9/10

The staff members are kind and helpful (special thanks to Jo at check-in!). They provided friendly service and greeted us with smiles.

Rooms

9/10

The room had a great size and was clean. The bed was very comfortable, ensuring a restful sleep. I also appreciated the plentiful supply of towels and tea and coffee making facilities available in the room.

0 Helpful

tom from united kingdom

Single

standard double room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 24, 2025

8.5/10

amazing stay!

easy process clean room lovely staff

the check in process was easy. the room was clean and replenished. the waitresses and waiters were lovely. i loved the selection of alcohol! i really appreciated jo and jess being lovely. they asked about my costume and seemed genuinely interested!

the gym could have a few more weights. but that's just a minor thing, really!

Service

9/10

the staff at the front desk was quick and efficient! i was greeted with a smile, and all my questions were answered. the team seemed well-organized and attentive to guest needs.

Dining

8/10

the restaurant had a varied menu with several options. the food was served hot and tasted fresh. the dining area was clean, and the staff was attentive during meal times.

0 Helpful

Victor from France

Family with children

Standard Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 04, 2025

9.0/10

Fantastic Stay, Great Value!

clean room helpful team pool spa fresh croissants

I found the room clean. The reception team and restaurant folks seemed helpful. I appreciated their friendliness. I also found a pool and spa at the hotel, a nice bonus. Breakfast had reasonable choice with fresh croissants.

I noticed the jacuzzi wasn't working. I hope that gets fixed soon.

Facilities

9/10

The hotel features a swimming pool which is open to guests. There is also a sauna available. A gym includes equipment like treadmills. Guests can access dining options on-site.

Rooms

8/10

My Standard Room includes a comfy bed. The room has climate control. The TV offers multiple channels. The bathroom features a rainfall shower.

Location

10/10

The hotel provides convenient access to local attractions. It is about half-hour drive from the ferry. The hotel is not far from the hospital. A zoo is close by.

Service

9/10

Staff were friendly and cute. They were very helpful with any questions. The hotel housekeeper was also super friendly. The reception staff was efficient at check-in.

0 Helpful

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Questions of the users

About Holiday Inn Colchester By Ihg

Are children aged 12 and 13 allowed to stay in their own room?

15 October 2024

Children who are 18 years or younger must be accompanied by an adult to have their own room.

Will I have access to the pool and restaurant facilities during my stay at the end of May?

27 May 2024

Guests will be able to use the pool and restaurant facilities, though booking specific time slots may be necessary upon arrival. There are sauna and steam room facilities available as well.

Is the swimming pool open in mid-August? Can I also use the sauna facilities?

18 August 2024

Yes, all leisure facilities including the pool and sauna will be open on that date.

Are dogs allowed at the hotel, and is there an additional fee?

22 September 2024

Yes, dogs are permitted, and there is a supplement fee of £10 per night for each dog.

What are the operating hours for the spa and swimming pool?

30 November 2024

The spa and swimming pool are open Monday to Thursday from 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM, Friday from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM, and weekends from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Is there any limit to the time I can spend in the pool, sauna, or jacuzzi during my stay?

11 December 2024

Generally, there's no strict limit; however, staff may ask guests to leave if the facilities become overcrowded.

Is breakfast available, and when can I have it if I need to leave early in the morning?

3 January 2025

Breakfast is served from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM, and guests are encouraged to book upon arrival.

Is the restaurant open to non-hotel guests, or is it exclusive for guests only?

14 January 2025

The restaurant is welcoming to both hotel guests and non-residents.

What is the check-out procedure and timing?

21 February 2025

Check-out is at 11:00 AM; however, guests can enjoy the pool facilities until 2:00 PM that day.

How far is the hotel from the nearest train station and town center?

5 March 2025

The train station is approximately 10 minutes away, and the town center is also around 10 minutes from the hotel. Public transport options include buses and local taxi services.