Holiday Inn Express Colchester By Ihg Exterior photoHoliday Inn Express Colchester By Ihg Exterior photoHoliday Inn Express Colchester By Ihg Other photo
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From60US$ /night
Check-in
06May2026Select date
Check-out
07May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Birchwood Road, Colchester, United Kingdom, CO7 6HX
-
Close to Dedham Vale
Great
8.3
8.2
/10
3.0
4.0
/5

Hotel Overview

Holiday Inn Express Colchester is located just off the A12, six miles from the center of Colchester and only 15 minutes' drive from Colchester station. The hotel offers 101 non-smoking rooms equipped with high-speed internet access and power showers. Guests have access to complimentary self-parking with 101 regular spaces available.

Dining Options

Guests can enjoy the Express Start Breakfast buffet included with their stay, featuring a variety of hot and cold items. For light meals or drinks, the Great Room lounge offers a comfortable setting with a menu available daily from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM. If guests prefer outdoor dining, the patio provides a pleasant area to relax in good weather.

Guest Rooms

The hotel offers modern guest rooms with power showers and options for double beds or twin configurations. Each room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels and complimentary tea and coffee facilities. A pillow menu enhances the sleeping experience, catering to diverse preferences.

Business Facilities

Holiday Inn Express Colchester offers three meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 38 guests. All meeting spaces are naturally lit and equipped with free Wi-Fi, allowing for a conducive environment for work and presentations. Business services, including copying and printing, are available to support professional needs.

Local Attractions

The hotel is positioned conveniently for exploring local attractions, including Colchester Zoo, just 15 minutes away by car. For those seeking retail options, Culver Square shopping centre is a short drive, offering a variety of stores. Nature enthusiasts can visit Beth Chatto Gardens, located only 17 minutes from the hotel.

Highlights

Location: Just off the A12, six miles from Colchester town centre

Dining: Inclusive Express Start Breakfast buffet available daily

Business: Three meeting rooms accommodating up to 38 guests

Parking: 101 regular car parking spaces with no charge

Family: Minutes to family-friendly attractions like Colchester Zoo

“This modern hotel emphasizes convenience with its inclusive breakfast and ample free parking. Families appreciate the proximity to Colchester Zoo, while business travelers can take advantage of well-lit meeting spaces. In my opinion, it's a solid choice for visitors prioritizing accessibility and practical amenities.”
Hotel logo
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type

Holiday Inn Express Colchester By Ihg offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Standard Room Hot
2 persons
205 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Double Room Sofa Bed Hot
2 persons
205 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Double Room Hot Accessible
2 persons
260 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Twin Room Hot
2 persons
205 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
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Facilities

Holiday Inn Express Colchester By Ihg offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.4/10Review 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
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots

Spa & Leisure

  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • In-room computer

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

The onsite dining at Holiday Inn Express Colchester brings a welcoming blend of British and international flavors. Start the day with a hearty breakfast and unwind with a cozy dinner, all served in an inviting atmosphere perfect for families and travelers alike.
Holiday Inn Express Colchester By Ihg Restaurant photo
Holiday Inn Express Colchester By Ihg Restaurant photo
Holiday Inn Express Colchester By Ihg Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

British, Local, International
Ambiance
Family-friendly dining area featuring cozy leather chairs in a stylish Great Room lounge.
Key Offerings
A delightful Express Start Breakfast buffet with bacon, scrambled eggs, sausages, baked beans, and pastries, plus the option for a light meal during lunch or dinner.
Reservation
Not needed.
Breakfast available daily; Dinner from Monday to Saturday, 18:30 - 21:00.

Holiday Inn Express Colchester By Ihg Location

Birchwood Road, Colchester, United Kingdom, CO7 6HX
Map view
Birchwood Road, Colchester, United Kingdom, CO7 6HX
Nearby
Old Ipswich Road
Gnome Magic Garden
2200 ft
Explore Colchester
Explore Colchester
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Gnome Magic
10-minute walk
Gnome Magic features whimsical gardens filled with charming gnome sculptures, making it a delightful stop for families.
The Munnings Art Museum
The Munnings Art Museum
10-minute drive
Museum showcasing the works of Sir Alfred Munnings, renowned for his equestrian paintings and beautiful gardens.
Dedham Village
10-minute drive
Picturesque village known for its art galleries and charming streets, perfect for a leisurely stroll and local shopping.
Boxted Airfield Museum
Boxted Airfield Museum
10-minute drive
A unique museum highlighting the history of aviation during WWII, featuring exhibits dedicated to local heroes.
Flatford Wildlife Garden
10-minute drive
Stunning gardens offering tranquil walking paths, ideal for nature lovers and families enjoying picnics.
Adrenaline Activities at Go Ape!
40-minute drive
Thrill-seekers can enjoy treetop adventures, zip lines, and obstacle courses at this nearby adventure park.
The Black Horse Inn
5-minute drive
Traditional British pub with a cozy atmosphere, serving hearty classics like fish and chips and roast dinners.
Bengal Brasserie
10-minute drive
Contemporary Indian restaurant known for flavorful curries, with vegetarian options and casual dining ambiance.
Colchester Arts Centre
10-minute drive
Live music venue and comedy club hosting an array of performances, popular for its vibrant atmosphere.
The Mercury Theatre
10-minute drive
Renowned theater offering a mix of drama, musicals, and family-friendly shows, ideal for a night out.
Getting around
City Centre
Colchester11 min  ·  4.4 mi
Airports
London Stansted (STN)89 min  ·  36.5 mi
London Southend (SEN)107 min  ·  44.2 mi
Train
Colchester Railway Station10 min  ·  4.0 mi
Hythe (Essex) Railway Station11 min  ·  4.2 mi
Bus
Bus stop3 min  ·  700 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site at GBP 8 per day.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Holiday Inn Express Colchester By Ihg provides visitors with a free full breakfast. 
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
English, Czech, Romanian, Polish
Number of rooms:
101
Former name
holiday inn express colchester, an ihg hotel

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Holiday Inn Express Colchester By Ihg from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Guests frequently highlight the hotel's modern and clean appearance, with rooms often described as spacious and comfortable. The breakfast buffet, included for under £80, is appreciated for its good variety and quality, including gluten-free options. The location is convenient for accessing the main road and a short drive from Colchester town centre, although some guests have noted the additional charge for parking. Bathrooms are modern, though some guests experienced issues with ventilation and noise.
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Review score
Based on 1246 verified reviews
7.7/10
Very good
77%
Recommend
Staff
9.1/10
Cleanliness
8.6/10
Breakfast
7.6/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.6/10
Pros
Comfortable beds
Excellent staff
Good location
Good price
Cons
Lack of cleanliness
No hot water
Insufficient food
Guest reviews
based on 1246 reviews
7.7/10
based on 1925 reviews
8.3/10
Christina from United States
Single
Standard Room Hot
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 15, 2026
6/10

An ok stay. Some issues occurred

strange bathroom smellflushing issue
the bathroom had a strange smell, almost like a dirty rag. the toilet also didn't flush properly, it kept running, it was frustrating. the staff was apologetic but didn't seem able to fix anything, disappointing.
0 Helpful
Adam from United Kingdom
Business traveller
Standard Room Hot
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 26, 2026
9/10

Solid Stay Near the A12

helpful staffclean facilitiesgluten-free optionsufficient space
The staff were very helpful I received modern clean facilities. Gluten-free options were available. There was plenty of parking. The room had sufficient space and included a sofa I found that comfortable. The bathroom was clean there was a hot shower.
Facilities
9/10
The hotel features ample parking space for all guests visiting. There are vending machines on site offering various snacks and drinks. Guests have access to complimentary high-speed internet throughout the entire hotel.
0 Helpful
|
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Harper from United Kingdom
Family with children
Standard Room Hot
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 18, 2026
9.0/10

Modern and Well-Kept

modern designsuper clean conditioncomfortable bedshelpful staff
I liked the hotel's modern design and its super clean condition. The room featured comfortable beds and functional amenities. Breakfast had many options. The staff seemed attentive, helpful, and they were quick to address any needs. I discovered on-site parking was convenient and well kept.
The gym had limited equipment. I think more variety will improve the workout experience.
Dining
9/10
The breakfast buffet provided multiple options such as cereals, pastries, and hot items and a selection of fruit juices. The dining area was spacious and clean and I saw regular restocking happening to maintain freshness. Coffee and tea were always available.
Location
8/10
The hotel benefitted from great access to the main highways and local attractions were a short drive. The area around the hotel was quiet, and I noticed a petrol station and a small convenience store nearby. Signage to the hotel were clear.
Rooms
10/10
The room included a big tv, free Wi-Fi, and good climate control. I saw the bathroom had both a shower and bathtub and towels felt soft and plush. The blackout curtains ensured a dark room.
0 Helpful
|
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Deborah from United States
Single
standard double room sofa bed hot
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 05, 2026
6/10
quick check-inbroken doorterrible bed
check-in was quick. the room was tidy.
the prepackaged scrambled eggs are awful. i did not like these prepackaged eggs. our first room was not good, it needed some repair. the door was broken and lampshades were cracked. the bed was also terrible. i felt we should not be allocated in this room.
0 Helpful
Aaron from United States
Single
Standard Room Hot
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 16, 2025
7/10
pleasant staffgood valueparking chargeparking fee
the staff were very pleasant. the breakfast was particularly good value (it had a lot of options).
i did not like that i had to pay for parking. i have stayed here many times over the years and was not aware of the parking charge, parking fee.
0 Helpful
Jennifer from Canada
Family with children
Standard Room Hot
2 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed:October 07, 2025
8.7/10

Really good service and clean rooms

early breakfastgoodie bagdelicious foodample towels
I was thrilled when the staff arranged an early breakfast due to our daughters' cheer competition. They even made goodie bags! The food tasted amazing, and cleanliness impressed me. I appreciated finding ample towels and mugs for three people in the room, rare!
The parking cost extra and that was a surprise.
Service
9/10
Staff members are so great, ready to assist with any requests, which enhanced the entire experience. The team addressed all questions, going above and beyond to ensure a smooth, great stay for all guests.
Dining
8/10
The breakfast selection included hot and fresh items, alongside a variety of pastries and juices. I noticed the dining area had plenty of seating. It accommodated many guests with ease.
Rooms
9/10
The room I had featured modern decor and it felt very clean. I appreciated the tasteful design. There were convenient amenities like a mini-fridge. I liked how everything was well-kept. This ensured a very pleasant stay.
0 Helpful
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Avery from United States
Couple
standard room hot
1 night in June 2025
|
Reviewed:August 08, 2025
7/10
clean roomimmaculate bathroomwhite towelsloud air conbroken lampbroken tv
the room was clean. the bathroom was immaculate. i found nice fluffy white towels provided. there was also plenty of hot water available.
the air con was terrifyingly loud. a bedside lamp was broken. the tv seemed broken too. the air con could not be fixed.
0 Helpful
Questions of the users
About Holiday Inn Express Colchester By Ihg
What is the distance from the hotel to the nearest train station?
12 January 2025
The nearest station, Colchester North, is approximately 9.7 kilometers from the hotel.
When is breakfast served at this hotel?
23 February 2025
Breakfast is available from Monday to Friday between 6:30 AM and 9:30 AM, and on weekends from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM.
Is it possible to reserve a room for two adults and two young children while including free breakfast?
5 March 2025
Yes, simply reserve a double room and include the children in your booking. The complimentary breakfast applies to all guests in the room.
Can you describe the breakfast options included with the stay?
17 April 2025
The breakfast features a variety of hot options, including bacon, beans, scrambled eggs, and sausages, along with toast, croissants, yogurt, and fresh fruit.
Is there a bar on the premises, and what are its hours of operation?
29 March 2025
The bar operates from 11 AM until 1 AM for hotel guests.
What is the size of the double beds in the guest rooms?
11 May 2025
The standard double bed measures 135 cm by 190 cm.
Are there facilities available for charging electric vehicles?
9 June 2025
Yes, there are electric car charging points located at the back of the hotel.
Can pets be accommodated at this property?
21 July 2025
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in this hotel.
Can a booking be made for a birthday celebration with overnight guests?
15 August 2025
The hotel is open to the public for bookings and is not being used to house immigrants.
What is the distance to the nearest beach from the hotel?
26 September 2025
The beach is approximately 30 minutes away by car from the hotel.

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