Holy Trinity Church
Trinity Square, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1JN
The church dates to around AD 1000, although all that survives from the original building is part of the internal west wall of the nave. The tower is an outstanding example of Anglo-Saxon architecture and has a small west doorway with a triangular head and distinctive upper windows. It was added around AD 1050 and is constructed of bricks and septaria, both taken from the ruins of the Roman city. Holy Trinity is one of only a handful of churches in Essex of Anglo-Saxon date.
Internally the Anglo-Saxon tower arch is the most impressive feature. The nave of Holy Trinity was rebuilt in the 14th century and the chancel also built, or rebuilt, at this time. Further expansion of the building to the south occurred in the late 15th century when an aisle, chapel and porch were added. Finally Holy Trinity was expanded again in the 19th century, firstly in 1840 when the vestry was built at the east end and then in 1864-6 when the north aisle and chapel were added by G. E. Laing. The church closed in 1953.
There are a number of important memorials both inside the church and in the graveyard. These include the Elizabeth scientist William Gilberd, the 17th-century composer John Wilbye and Capt. Thomas Pinto RN who fought at Trafalgar in 1805.
This year for the first time since 2019 it will be possible to go inside the church. Experts will be on hand to explain the history of the building and you will be able to find out more about its exciting future as a community space.
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 20 September:
- 1300-1700
Location & directions
Trinity Square, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1JN
- Directions:
- Enter through the gate on Trinity Street. The 'What Three Words' location is ///resort.tasker.activism
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking required
- Booking conditions:
- Ticket required, ballot allocation only. Maximum of two persons per household.
- Booking contact name:
- Colchester Visitor Information Centre
- Booking telephone number:
- +441206282290
- Booking opens:
- 01 Aug 2025 12:00 AM
- Booking closes:
- 30 Aug 2025 12:00 AM
Accessibility details
Some uneven ground.
Additional information
Other buildings open nearby for Heritage Open Days on the same day are Colchester Town Hall (including 'Meet and Play the Moot Hall Organ'), the Quaker Meeting House, St Helen's Chapel, St Martin's Church, Roman Theatre (Maidenburgh Street), and 7 Queen Street (The Brewhouse). Colchester City Council is grateful to Bakers of Danbury for facilitating access to the interior of the building during repairs to its roof.
- Max no of people per tour:
- 20
- Est. tour duration:
- 0 hour(s) 30 minute(s)
