Colchester: history tour

Patrick Denney takes us on a tour of Colchester through the ages, explaining the history behind the well-known landmarks of this fine town.

We will pass by Colchester Castle, the largest Norman keep in Europe, and step back in time to the 1900s to witness a troop of circus elephants make their way along Crouch Street.

There is a glimpse into the Colchester of the First World War, as we see troops arriving in Head Street around this time.

We then make our way to the 1940s with a touching scene from the annual remembrance service at the war memorial, which is not to be missed.

From museums to the town hall and St John's Abbey gatehouse, this charming collection of new and old photographs document the transformation of the town centre perfectly - horses and traps being replaced by cars.