Business of the Year
Red Lion Books
A huge congratulations to Red Lion Books, winner of Business of the Year at the Colchester Business Awards 2026.
This final award was voted for on the night by everyone in attendance, chosen from this year’s incredible category winners.
Red Lion Books is a true Colchester treasure. As an independent bookshop, it brings warmth, character and community spirit to the city centre, creating a space people return to, recommend and genuinely care about.
Their win is a beautiful reminder of the impact local businesses can have, not just through what they sell, but through the people they bring together, the conversations they start and the place they hold in the heart of the city.
Congratulations to the whole team at Red Lion Books. A very well-deserved winner of Business of the Year.
City Hero Award
Kerrie Williams
Kerrie is the driving force behind Invasion Colchester, one of the city’s biggest free events. The event brings thousands of people into the High Street, creates an unforgettable day out for families and visitors, and raises an incredible amount of money for charity.
A huge congratulations also goes to the highly commended City Heroes: Rennie Chivers, Stacey Banner, Nicky Best and Tracey Davies.
People’s Choice Award
It's All At Number 11
Chosen by the public through the InColchester app, this award celebrates a Colchester business that people genuinely love, support and believe deserves the spotlight.
Every vote helped champion the places people return to, recommend and feel proud to have in the city. This award is a brilliant reminder of the connection between Colchester’s businesses and the community around them.
Eatery of the Year
North Hill Noodle Bar
This award celebrates the food spots that bring flavour, atmosphere and brilliant service to Colchester. North Hill Noodle Bar has become a firm favourite in the city, known for fresh, flavour-packed dishes and a dining experience that keeps people coming back.
Evening & Night Time Economy of the Year
Three Wise Monkeys
Three Wise Monkeys is a standout part of Colchester’s night-time economy, helping bring energy, atmosphere and entertainment to the city centre. From food and drink to live events and nights out, they continue to give people a reason to visit and enjoy Colchester after dark.
Independent Retailer of the Year
Red Lion Books
This award celebrates independent businesses that bring character, personality and something truly special to Colchester. Red Lion Books is a much-loved part of the city, offering recommendations, gifts and that independent bookshop charm that makes our retail scene so unique.
Live Entertainment Venue of the Year
Colchester Arts Centre
This award celebrates venues that create memorable live experiences and bring people together. Colchester Arts Centre continues to be a brilliant space for live music, comedy, performance and culture, making a real contribution to the city’s events scene.
Contribution to Theatre & Arts of the Year
Colchester Arts Centre
Colchester Arts Centre continues to play a huge role in Colchester's creative life, supporting live performance, culture, comedy, music and the arts. This award recognises the venues and organisations helping Colchester’s cultural scene thrive.
National Retailer of the Year
Waterstones
Waterstones is a much-loved part of Colchester’s High Street, offering a welcoming space for readers, families, gift hunters and book lovers of all ages. This award recognises the national retailers that bring great standards, strong service and a positive experience to the city centre.
Charity of the Year
St Helena Hospice
St Helena Hospice continues to make an incredible difference to people and families across Colchester and beyond. Through their care, compassion and support, they help people through some of life’s most difficult moments, and this award recognises the vital role they play in our community.
Best Managed Retail Area or Department Store of the Year
Fenwick
As one of Colchester’s most recognised shopping destinations, Fenwick plays a huge role in the city. From strong presentation and customer service to creating a welcoming shopping experience, Fenwick continues to bring people into the city centre and support Colchester’s wider retail scene.
Professional Service of the Year
Hays Travel
This award celebrates businesses that deliver trusted expertise, outstanding service and real value to their customers. Hays Travel continues to be a brilliant part of Colchester’s city centre, helping people plan holidays, special trips and unforgettable experiences with friendly, knowledgeable and personal support.