Britain's Finest - Events

Colchester Zoo Summer Celebrations are set to be sizzling!

Keep the kids entertained this summer by visiting throughout the school holidays. 

You can also enjoy more for your money on 10th & 24th August 2024 with a later closing time!

After an absence of several years we are delighted that Fiona Calder will be back in 2024 to exhibit her delightful floral pieces, at our Tearoom in Stillingfleet Lodge Gardens.

Fiona’s artwork celebrates her passion for flowers and foliage, she finds never ending inspiration in their delightful colours and beautiful shapes.

The art exhibitions are located in the tea room and are open to the public during regular garden opening times. Admission to the tea room and art exhibitions are free. The works of art will be available to purchase, please ask at the entrance hut.

Visitors can enjoy the beautiful late spring-themed bonsai displays as well as the tiny accent pots that are an essential part of any bonsai show. Featuring a range of bonsai in spring bloom, there will also be advice, talks and demonstrations on bonsai care for new and experienced enthusiasts, including pruning, wiring and creating your own accent pot. Plants and bonsai equipment will be on sale as well as the wonderful handmade pots. Included in normal garden admission.

Experience an exclusive English wine lunch featuring the award winning Devon Vineyard, Sandridge Barton. Join us in our drawing room for an introduction to the vineyard by Tom Wedgery, with a glass of Sharpham sparkling wine and canapés. Served in the oak panel dining room, the exquisite lunch menu, crafted by executive chef, Chris Eden, will be paired with some of the finest wine of the Dart Valley Vineyard.

Join us for a delightful Family Afternoon Tea with kickstart the summer with a burst of excitement. Join us for a thrilling Circus Workshop hosted by the talented local performer, Rob Horsman, and don't miss the entertaining sheepdog and duck herding demonstration by David Seamark. Participate in the excitement every hour between 12.00pm and 4.00pm. It's a unique blend of circus charm and adorable duck herding that promises a day filled with fun and unforgettable memories. After the activities, make your way to your reserved table and enjoy a sumptuous afternoon tea with your family.

Treat your Dad to a special Sunday Lunch from £19.00  per person served 12 – 4pm. Booking is essential, please contact Reception

Celebrate Father's Day with a special treat. Join us for a delightful experience exploring our local casked beers and craft ales paired perfectly with mini pies.

Enjoy a beer flight featuring a range of flavours alongside a taster board of delicious mini pies, each paired to enhance your tasting experience. Treat Dad to a memorable day filled with exceptional brews, delectable bites, and the joy of savouring these delightful pairings together.

A three-day relaxed weekend VW Festival. With all the elements of the shows we all know and love! Quarter mile track action features Doorslammer Drag Racing, alongside Show & Shine, Traders, Fun Fair and Bar meaning you can enjoy the later evenings camping with friends!

“Join us for an enchanting celebration of wedding bliss, with our Wedding Showcase, offering Canapes and Fizz upon your arrival, carefully selected suppliers, live DJ and much more!

A perfect opportunity to plan your special day, discuss ideas with our award winning experts and see our Beautiful Function suites fully dressed”

Why not treat your dad to a 3 course Sunday Lunch & Complimentary pint for Father's Day ? 

Please advise Dad's name upon booking

£28.00 per person / £16.00 per child

Served from 12.30pm until 4.30pm

Booking Essential, please contact our ReceptionTeam

This is a more advance vegetable gardening course, led by orgainic expert, Tony Chalcraft. It is perfect tfor those wanting to improve and extend their crops. On this session you will learn about the main vegetable crops plus a few unusual ones, focussing on how to maximise the harvest and avoid problems.

The course is especially suitable for those who’ve grown vegetables for some years and have a grasp of the basics but want to get to grow more and better crops.

Celebrate Father's Day on our sun-drenched terrace with a delectable two-course lunch. Enjoy a curated menu while honouring the father figures in your life. Gather with loved ones to toast and create cherished memories in a beautiful setting.