The Boathouse — Restaurant in Colchester

The Boathouse is a restaurant in Colchester offering waterfront dining. Situated along the River Colne, it’s a key part of the city’s riverside. This venue is known for its selection of craft beer, especially the BrewDog IPA. Both locals and visitors go to The Boathouse for relaxed evening meals or drinks with a view. It’s conveniently located near Colchester Castle and the Museum of Colchester, making it a good place to eat before or after exploring the city.

About The Venue

Established in 1990, The Boathouse was originally built for boat storage and docking. The building’s architecture includes original timber beams and maritime relics, contributing to its nautical decor. The interior has bright lighting and an industrial aesthetic with exposed brick and metal. It consistently offers a lively, energetic atmosphere with a high number of visitors, particularly during peak hours. While not a listed building, it retains a strong connection to its original function on the River Colne in Colchester.

Typical Experiences

The Boathouse is a restaurant with a focus on craft beer, offering a moderate price point. It’s ideal for social evenings and gatherings, and is popular with groups, couples, and business diners. With waterfront dining overlooking the River Colne, the venue provides a lively backdrop. Expect a high-energy environment, and be sure to try the house beer, BrewDog IPA. It’s walk-in only, so queues can be long.

Notable Features

  • BrewDog IPA
  • Original Victorian boathouse with timber beams and maritime relics
  • Waterfront dining overlooking the River Colne
  • Wood burner fires
  • Comfy seating
  • Seats outside when weather permits
  • Outdoor seating

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Information about this venue is based on publicly available sources and may be incomplete. Last updated in July 2026.