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Gray's Summer House

Castle Park, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1TJ

  • 15 Sep 2024
  • In person
  • Pre-booking not required

Gray's Summer House in Castle Park in Colchester was built by the town's MP Charles Gray in 1731. The building is in the form of a miniature Greek temple with an interior decorated with plaster medallions.

Charles Gray (1696-1782) was a lawyer, antiquary and politician who served as Colchester's MP in the reigns of George II and George III. In 1726, following his marriage to Sarah Creffield, he became the owner of Colchester Castle and was responsible for the landscaping of its grounds, including the creation of a raised terrace on the north side of the Castle. At the west end of this terrace is a small classical building known as Gray's Summer House. This building is not open regularly and this is therefore a very rare opportunity to view its interior. It has recently been refurbished.

Visitors can also enjoy the spectacular gardens surrounding Colchester Castle.

Timings & Tours

Sunday 15 September:
1000-1600

Location & directions

Castle Park, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1TJ

Directions:
Gray's Summerhouse is located to the rear of Colchester Castle. It is best approached from the raised walkway to the right of the entrance to Colchester Castle which leads on to the terrace.

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:
Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

Accessible toilets are located in Castle Park. There are a limited number of disabled bays by the Museum Street entrance to Castle Park.

Additional information

Please note that the only free day at Colchester Castle is Saturday 14 September. Admission charges apply on other days during the festival.

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