The Rose & Crown Hotel

Just a few minutes' stroll from Colchester Castle, this beautiful timber-framed building dates from the 14th century and is believed to be the oldest hotel in the oldest town in England. The Tudor bar with its central roaring fire is a great place to relax with a drink. Food is served in the Oak Room or the Tudor Room brasserie, an informal alternative serving classic bar food. Typically, start with ham hock terrine or a sharing platter of shellfish, then follow with pork belly with butterbean, pancetta and chorizo cassoulet. Leave room for warm pear and almond tart. Accommodation is available.