COLCHESTER its well known for being steeped in history, and some of its pubs are also well worth a visit for their special historic interest – as well as for a tipple.

Whether you enjoy historic architecture or would like to learn more about the role public ins played in the Civil War here are three of our recommended historic pubs which are well worth a visit in Colchester.

The Marquis

Popular - The Marquis is popular in summer for its large beer garden (Image: Submitted)

The Marquis was built in 1520, during the reign of King Henry VIII, and is a Grade II listed building.

Inside the building on North Hill, there are original moulded ceiling-beams and joists, as well as beams carved with symbols including a shield with the initials H.M. or W intertwined with a knot.

A lot of the building was extensively restored in 1914, while the name of the inn may refer to the Marquess of Granby from the time of Queen Anne in the early 18th century.

The Marquis offers food, premium ales, and has an outdoor beer garden and heated marquees.

The Purple Dog

Change - The pub was rebranded as The Purple Dog in 2006Change - The pub was rebranded as The Purple Dog in 2006 (Image: Newsquest)

This pub dating from 1647 is on the corner of Trinity Street in the city centre, like many historic pubs to increase footfall, and is also Grade II listed.

The external character of the timber-framed building remains mostly the same, with some details changing.

It was formerly called the Clarence Inn taking its name in the middle of the 19th century from the Duke of Clarence, before being called the Joiners arms.

The Old Siege House

Siege - The Old Siege House is named for its strategic position in the Siege of Colchester in 1648Siege - The Old Siege House is named for its strategic position in the Siege of Colchester in 1648 (Image: Everard Cole)

Built in the late 15th century, the clue is in the name for the major historical significance this pub has.

During the Civil War, this now bar and brasserie, was on the road which was once used in the main route to the castle and next to the bridge which crossed the river.

Some of the pub’s timber frame contains many bullet holes from the fighting while inside there are original oak panels, fireplaces, tiles and the stained-glass windows dating from the Siege.

With tasty-looking set menus and an extensive bar, this is a place to enjoy yourself as a Cavalier – not the Roundheads who eventually won the Siege.

Other honourable mentions include The Rose and Crown Hotel which was built in the 14th century on East Street, the 15th century Red Lion Hotel on the High Street, and the George Hotel on the High Street which has features dating back more than 600 years.