Gosbecks Archaeological Park

Excavations in the fields surrounding Gosbecks Farm began in the 19th century with the discovery of a Roman temple by an amateur archaeologist, the Rev. Henry Jenkins, in 1842. This archaeological excavation is regarded as being the earliest undertaken in Colchester. However, the true scale of the site wasn't known until archaeologists examined aerial photographs of the area in the 1930s.

Gosbecks was once the focus of the extensive pre-Roman settlement of Camulodunum (present day Colchester) and the royal seat of a succession of native kings. Today, the Archaeological Park offers a mix of outstanding archaeological evidence, natural landscape and pleasant country walks.

The park includes the remains of the largest of the five known Roman theatres in Britain, with seating for up to 5,000 people, and a Romano-Celtic Temple located within a large four-sided precinct. The sacred precinct was surrounded by a double portico or corridor almost a quarter of a mile long. The theatre, temple and portico have been fully indicated in outline on the ground, following survey and excavation by archaeologists from the Colchester Archaeological Trust.

The name Gosbecks probably refers to the name of the landowner in the 1200s Roger de Gosebek.

Timings & Tours

Sunday 15 September:

Tours at 11.00 and 1400

Location & directions

Gosbecks Archaeological Park, Maldon Road, Colchester, Essex, CO3 4RN

Directions:

Gosbecks Archaeological Park is located opposite the Colchester Recycling Centre.

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

Uneven ground which may be muddy. Sensible footware is recommended.

Additional information

The tour starts at the car park off Maldon Road.

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