History
History
The Siege took place during the reign of Charles 1 and was part of the war between the Royalists and Parliamentarians. The Old Siege House, as you are probably aware is in close proximity to the castle and at the time of the Siege, this restaurant was actually on the road which was once used in the main route to the castle. The building was situated next to the bridge which crossed the river surrounding the town and castle.
Interestingly, most of the fighting took place on the East Bridge and East Hill. Evidence of the battle can still be seen here today in the Old Siege House – the timber frame of the west side and south front of the building contains many bullet holes from the fighting. The building still has its original oak panels, fireplaces, tiles and the beautiful stained glass windows which it had at the time of the Siege. The historic Siege of Colchester and the historic past of the Old Siege House still lives on today through the ambience of this charming and elegant restaurant.
At the beginning of the Siege of Colchester, the Royalists occupied the castle and ruled Colchester. However, this was not to last, since the Parliamentarians used some clever tactics and soon realised if they could capture the road leading to the town and castle that they could gain control. The Royalists, after losing the East Bridge side of the castle, become desperate to gain possession of the route to the castle and town again. They went into battle once more with Parliamentarians and won the Siege. Two days later the Parliamentarians took back control of the East Bridge when they stormed the castle, killing the Royalist Commanders by firing squad.
The Siege took place during the reign of Charles 1 and was part of the war between the Royalists and Parliamentarians. The Old Siege House, as you are probably aware is in close proximity to the castle and at the time of the Siege, this restaurant was actually on the road which was once used in the main route to the castle. The building was situated next to the bridge which crossed the river surrounding the town and castle.
At the beginning of the Siege of Colchester, the Royalists occupied the castle and ruled Colchester. However, this was not to last, since the Parliamentarians used some clever tactics and soon realised if they could capture the road leading to the town and castle that they could gain control. The Royalists, after losing the East Bridge side of the castle, become desperate to gain possession of the route to the castle and town again. They went into battle once more with Parliamentarians and won the Siege. Two days later the Parliamentarians took back control of the East Bridge when they stormed the castle, killing the Royalist Commanders by firing squad.
Interestingly, most of the fighting took place on the East Bridge and East Hill. Evidence of the battle can still be seen here today in the Old Siege House – the timber frame of the west side and south front of the building contains many bullet holes from the fighting. The building still has its original oak panels, fireplaces, tiles and the beautiful stained glass windows which it had at the time of the Siege. The historic Siege of Colchester and the historic past of the Old Siege House still lives on today through the ambience of this charming and elegant restaurant.
Food at The Old Siege House
Brasserie
Relax and enjoy our delicious menu, with a variety of choices for all dietary requirments. We ensure that all our meat products are locally sourced and our cuisine is homemade in our kitchens.
Afternoon Tea
Come and join us for this wonderful tradition. Serving a selection of teas, sandwiches, scones with butter, clotted cream and jam. Whilst finishing off with an array of mouth watering cakes.
Bar
Come and joins us at the bar for a beer, cocktail, hot drink, or something from our extensive wine menu. Sit by the warm fire or outside depending on the season.
Children's Menu
Our eatery is to be enjoyed by all the family. Therefore, we offer a full menu for children which includes starters, mains and desserts. We can also cater for various dietary requirements.
Sunday Lunch
Take the pressure off and come and enjoy our range of traditional Sunday roasts. Slow cooked beef, Marinated chicken, Salmon, or a delicious nut roast. We cater for all requirements
What's on at The Old Siege House?
Find out more here about our regular and upcoming events throughout the year
Venue for hire
Events
Weddings
We are dedicated to making your wedding day with us as special as possible.
We can offer our facilities for small intimate affairs or larger groups.
We can cater to up to 140 guests over our beautiful historic floors. Each floor has its own bar.
Events
Functions
We are available for hire for various functions including but not inclusive of, Parties, Special occasions, Business meetings - for breakfasts, lunches and dinners.
We also offer our services to those wishing to hold a wake.
Events
Outside Catering
Let us take the stress out of your event.
We can offer a full catering service for outside events such as parties, weddings or even a dinner party.
We can offer a varierty of foods including, Hog Roasts, BBQ's, Paellas and even Pizza evenings.
Testimonials
What People are Saying
“Birthday Celebration”
"Our first visit. The staff were very helpful and gave good service throughout. The menu is plentiful, reasonably priced and the food is excellent!"
Valena18
“Great atmosphere”
"What a great meal, I barely know where to start. Lovely food, efficient and accommodating staff. We will have to go back soon!
StaceyG
“Fantastic Venue”
"Fantastic venue, staff and meal. Perfect Sunday lunch expertly prepared and presented for our table of 14"
David962
"Excellent Service"
"From start to finish our experience at the Siege House was brilliant. My partner and I went last year for our anniversary and really enjoyed ourselves so thought we’d go again this year and maybe start a little tradition"
JessayC93
Hours of Operation
Monday and Tuesday - Closed but available for private hire for a minimum of 40 covers
WED, THU AND FRI
12:00pm – 3.00pm Last food order by 2:00pm
6:00pm – 10:00pm Last food order by 8.30pm
SAT
12:00pm – 11:00pm
Last food order for lunch 2.30pm and last food order in evening 9:00pm
SUN
12:00pm – 5:00pm Last food order by 3:00pm
Drop Us a Line
We are here to help! Let us know if you have any questions!