> Greyfriars Hotel Colchester | Michelin Dining & Free Parking

Name: Greyfriars, Colchester
Address: High Street, Colchester, Essex
Price range: US$158+
Rating: 8.7

75 photos

Greyfriars Hotel Colchester Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

High Street, Colchester

Close to the historic old town

Great

8.7

9.3

/10

3.6

4.5

5-star luxury hotel and restaurant in the heart of Colchester

Rooms & Suites

Greyfriars offers 26 luxuriously appointed bedrooms, including Grand Luxe Signature Suites, Deluxe Suites, and Junior Suites. All rooms are designed to meet 5-star standards with beautifully finished marble bathrooms or shower rooms. The Courtyard Suite features a private spacious garden with level access, suitable for wheelchair users.

Dining Options

Dining at Greyfriars encompasses a wide array of menus available throughout the day, catering to diverse tastes. From Breakfast to Parlour Afternoon Tea, the cuisine focuses on quality ingredients with a local touch, including Oysters from Mersea Island. Guests can enjoy the Baroque Bar offering a selection of vintage and non-vintage champagnes, cocktails, and lighter snacks.

Location & Accessibility

Situated at the top of East Hill in Colchester, Greyfriars provides easy access to the Cultural Quarter, featuring Colchester Castle and art galleries. The hotel also has ample free parking for 22 vehicles and is equipped with designated disabled parking bays. The North Entrance includes a retracting staircase for ease of access for all guests.

Private & Event Spaces

Greyfriars thrives as a venue for private dining and corporate events, with spaces like The Salon accommodating up to 18 guests. The Rose Room allows for more formal gatherings, combining C18th elegance with modern comfort. Dedicated staff are on hand to tailor experiences for special occasions and meetings.

Cigar Lounge & Outdoor Areas

The Cigar Lounge features a heated courtyard offering guests a congenial outdoor space for relaxation. The Baroque Terrace allows for dining and drinks with splendid views during the summer, while the Lower Garden Terrace is accessible directly from the driveway. All outdoor spaces are well lit and cater to both guests and visitors.

Highlights

Location: Top of East Hill in Colchester's Cultural Quarter

Rooms: 26 luxuriously appointed bedrooms

Dining: Extensive menus from Breakfast to Afternoon Tea

Private Dining: The Salon, accommodating up to 18 guests

Accessibility: Retracting staircase for ease of access

Outdoor Space: Cigar Lounge and Baroque Terrace

Must-do experiences

Visit the Colchester Castle Museum for fascinating local history.
Stroll through Hollytrees Museum, a gem of Georgian charm.
Savor the Colchester Oyster at the local seafood market.
Explore the stunning gardens at Castle Park for a peaceful retreat.
Check out the vibrant Colchester Arts Centre for live performances.

Select your room type

Greyfriars offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Deluxe King Suite
2 persons
40 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
Superior King Suite
2 persons
54 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
Duplex Suite
2 persons
50 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Heating
room details

Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Greyfriars offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Perfect

9.0/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Allergy-free rooms
Lift
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Special diet menus

Business

Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Children's menu

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Mini-bar
Soundproofed rooms
Sitting area
Dressing area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At Greyfriars, guests are invited to explore a delightful blend of British cuisine within elegantly designed spaces. Each dining venue offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for intimate meals, afternoon tea, or delightful cocktails, all complemented by fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Greyfriars Hotel Colchester Restaurant photo

Cloisters Restaurant

British

Ambiance

An elegant space featuring terrace seating adorned with lush planting, ideal for relaxed dining experiences.

Key Offerings

Lunch and dinner options include set menus and à la carte selections featuring Mersea Island oysters, Newbridge Farm beef, and the lightest scones with rich strawberry preserve for afternoon tea.

Reservation

Recommended

Lunch & Dinner; specific times vary.

Bars and Lounges

British

Ambiance

Located in the charming original C18th core of Greyfriars, these inviting spaces include the Baroque Bar, Venetian Lounge, and the cozy Library Lounge, perfect for unwinding.

Key Offerings

Guests can enjoy afternoon tea or cocktails in the fresh air during fine weather, enhancing the overall experience with floral surroundings.

Reservation

Not needed

Hours vary; typically open for afternoon and evening service.

Greyfriars Location

High Street, Colchester

Explore Colchester

Local Highlights

Colchester Castle

25 minutes walking

Historic castle housing a museum, showcasing Roman and medieval heritage with beautiful grounds.

Hollytrees Museum

4 minutes walking

Victorian-era museum featuring local history exhibits and children's activities in a charming setting.

Colchester Castle Park

25 minutes walking

Expansive park with picturesque gardens, a clock tower, and recreational areas perfect for families.

Roman Circus Centre

17 minutes walking

Remnants of a Roman chariot circus with impressive archeological displays and guided tours.

Colchester Zoo

10-minute drive

Wildlife park with over 260 species, excellent for families with animal experiences and play areas.

Highwoods Country Park

35 minutes walking

Ideal for hiking and cycling, this park offers serene nature trails and picnic spots.

Aqua Springs

20 minutes walking

Water park featuring slides and pools, perfect for thrill-seekers and families to unwind.

The Minories Garden Cafe

1 minute walking

Casual cafe offering seasonal dishes and local beverages in a relaxed garden setting.

Prezzo

2 minutes walking

Italian restaurant known for its stylish decor and classic pizzas, ideal for casual dining.

Kimchi House

2 minutes walking

Korean cuisine with vibrant flavors and dishes like bibimbap; vegetarian options available.

Colchester Arts Centre

10 minutes walking

Live music venue and theater showcasing local talent, ideal for a laid-back evening out.

Jumbo Water Tower

10 minutes walking

Historic landmark offering panoramic views of Colchester; hosts occasional events and activities.

Getting around

City Centre
Colchester 4 min · 1000 ft
Airports
London Stansted (STN) 81 min · 33.5 mi
London Southend (SEN) 100 min · 41.1 mi
Train
Colchester Town Railway Station 5 min · 1400 ft
Colchester Railway Station 18 min · 5000 ft
Bus
Bus stop 2 min · 400 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP17.50 per person per day.

Children & extra beds

Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 2.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Greyfriars from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 984 verified reviews

8.7 /10

Great

88 %

Recommend

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Comfort

9.3/10

Facilities

9.0/10

Free WiFi

9.1/10

Location

9.4/10

Staff

9.1/10

Value for money

8.5/10

Oliver from United Kingdom

Couple

superior king room

1 night in November 2025

Reviewed: February 14, 2026

9.5/10

wow , what a hotel!

private car park really good food contemporary fitting attentive staff

i loved the private car park , it made arrival so easy. the cloisters restaurant provided really good food , i enjoyed dinner and breakfast there . my room featured original details well integrated with contemporary fittings , such sumptuous furnishings. the staff were attentive and helpful throughout my stay .

the church bells started ringing early , it was quite disruptive to my sleep.

Rooms

9/10

my room included a comfortable bed and a beautiful bathroom , offering a luxurious experience. many original features mixed well with updated amenities , it created a unique atmosphere.

Service

10/10

the breakfast service was really good , it provided a good start to my day. the staff throughout the hotel were very attentive , offering assistance and creating a cute environment.

0 Helpful

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jade from united kingdom

Couple

superior king room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 26, 2026

9.0/10

charming stay

soft drinks spacious bathroom accessible carpark

the complimentary soft drinks from the minibar surprised me. the bedroom and bathroom was spacious. i found the free, easily accessible carpark useful and also a large outside terrace area. i liked the service at breakfast, afternoon tea, and bar, it was efficient and friendly.

Dining

9/10

breakfast had excellent choice plus it was generally good quality, i liked it. the full english was ok and second time i had excellent other choices. nespresso coffee machine plus fresh milk on request was available.

Rooms

9/10

my superior king room was spacious and very comfortable. it included a nespresso coffee machine plus fresh milk on request. i found complimentary drinks in the bar fridge. there was both shower plus bath.

Facilities

9/10

this hotel includes free parking which is secured. a large outside terrace area exists for all to use. there is on site secured parking plus the hotel is very central.

Service

9/10

staff was friendly also helpful throughout my stay. the reception team gave a friendly welcome at arrival. housekeeping staff were efficient plus friendly. staff could not have been more friendly and helpful.

0 Helpful

Mark from United Kingdom

Couple

superior king room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 22, 2026

9/10

comfy bed great shower complimentary drinks

the bed and bedding felt comfy. the shower was great. complimentary drinks sat ready in the room and the location shone.

The bar and food staff seemed a little inattentive. Service felt subpar.

0 Helpful

Leo from Germany

Business traveller

superior king room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 22, 2026

9/10

spacious layout separate sinks

The superior king room was amazing!!! it had a really spacious layout and everything felt super luxurious. the bathroom was also great. I noticed it featured two separate sinks.

the elevator near reception was sometimes a bit slow.

0 Helpful

Amelia from United States

Business traveller

Junior Suite

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 12, 2026

9.3/10

Really good Hospitality

suite upgrade comfortable bed complimentary bar central location

The hotel room upgrade to a suite provided ample space. The bed offered great comfort. I appreciated the complimentary minibar. The central location allowed easy exploration of nearby attractions, including the train station.

The water pressure in the mosaic bath was a bit slow.

Location

9/10

The hotel benefits from a central position. It offers convenient access to local attractions. Colchester Castle and the surrounding park are nearby. Colchester Town station is within walking distance.

Facilities

9/10

Private car parking is available . The Cloisters restaurant serves dinner and breakfast. The hotel maintains original features. These details are well integrated with modern amenities and furnishings.

Rooms

9/10

The Junior Suite has plenty of space. It features a comfortable bed. A beautiful bathroom includes contemporary fittings. Sumptuous furnishings enhance the room's appeal. The minibar is complimentary.

Service

10/10

The staff demonstrates attentiveness. They are helpful throughout the hotel. The reception team extends a friendly welcome. Service on the terrace bar and in the restaurant is excellent.

0 Helpful

Layla from United Kingdom

standard king room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 13, 2025

6/10

constant problem lack attentiveness

the location was perfect for walking to nearby attractions.

the lack of attentiveness really bothered me. i sat for ages waiting for my order to be taken at breakfast one morning. it turned out they had completely forgotten about me. also, the constant problem with the lavatory flushing unless you knew a special trick was annoying. just fix it

0 Helpful

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Questions of the users

About Greyfriars

Is there a cost associated with the minibar in the hotel rooms?

10 February 2024

All rooms and suites at GreyFriars feature a complimentary minibar for guests to enjoy.

Can guests park on the premises for free?

6 March 2024

Yes, GreyFriars offers complimentary on-site parking for all guests during their stay. For assistance in finding the car park, reaching out to the Reservations Team is recommended.

Is breakfast part of the room rate?

22 April 2024

Unless stated otherwise, the rates quoted include breakfast, which guests can enjoy each morning.

What are the check-in and check-out times for GreyFriars?

15 May 2024

Check-in is available starting from 15:00, and check-out is required by 12:00 on the day of departure.

Are there designated rooms available for couples on their honeymoon?

28 June 2024

While there isn't a specific honeymoon suite, Deluxe and Signature Suites are often favored by couples seeking a romantic stay.

Can I book a hotel room and bring my small dog along?

9 July 2024

GreyFriars is pet-friendly but only in specific rooms. For details on which rooms accommodate pets, contacting the Reservations Team is advised.

Are there gluten-free breakfast options available?

2 August 2024

Yes, GreyFriars provides gluten-free breakfast choices, with additional information available upon request at arrival.

Is room service available throughout the day?

11 September 2024

A full room service menu is offered daily from 10:00 to 21:00, along with a twilight menu for late-night cravings.

What is the maximum capacity for guests in the hotel rooms?

30 October 2024

Rates for GreyFriars rooms are based on double occupancy; some suites can accommodate extra beds or cots for children available at a nominal charge.

Is there a room that can be configured with twin beds?

14 November 2024

One Junior Suite can be arranged as a twin room upon request, and further details can be obtained by contacting the hotel reception.

What kind of breakfast is included in the room rates?

5 December 2024

The breakfast included is a continental selection alongside one cooked breakfast per guest from the menu.

If I'm arriving by train, which station should I use?

18 January 2025

The nearest train station is Colchester Town, approximately a 10-minute walk, but Colchester North Station has more frequent service and is about a 10-minute taxi ride away.