The fishing lake at High Woods Country Park

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About

High Woods Country Park is one of Colchester's best-loved beauty spots, with plenty of opportunities to relax, play and explore the large grounds. 

A walk or cycle in the park  is a great way to exercise, with waymarked paths leading you through bluebell woods whilst catching glimpses of the lake and wildflower meadows and taking in the great views of Colchester. You can find three circular walking trails of varying lengths here.

The adventure play area, close to the main car park, is a great kids activity and you'll also find a dedicated picnic area nearby. The visitor centre opens in peak times and sells refreshments as well as providing interpretation for the park and more family activities.

Anglers can enjoy a day’s fishing in the lake, and permits to do so can be obtained from Colchester City Council.

There are also several organised activities, community groups, and childrens activities taking place throughout the year. These range from regular health walks to den building in the woods, pond dipping, or helping out in the community garden. Keep an eye on our events page for up-to-date information.

Responsible Dog owners are welcome. 

For more information on the park and its facilities go to www.colchester.gov.uk/countrypark

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Events

Friday, 29th March 2024 - Sunday, 14th April 2024

High Woods Easter Trail‘Signs of Spring Easter Trail’It’s the perfect time of year to get out and about in the woods and take part in our ‘Signs of Spring Easter Trail’
more info

Thursday, 4th April 2024 - Thursday, 4th April 2024

Welcome to Salary Brook - Local Nature ReserveSalary Brook Pond DippingJoin the Ranger for a morning pond dipping at Salary Brook
more info

Friday, 5th April 2024 - Friday, 5th April 2024

2 boys looking at bugs in a container after pond dippingPond Dipping Children’s EventDiscover what bugs and creepy crawlies lie in the ponds at High Woods Country Park.
more info

Wednesday, 10th April 2024 - Wednesday, 10th April 2024

Woodland craftsWoodland Craft Day at Welsh Wood Forest SchoolGet creative in the woods. Come and join our woodland craft session on Wednesday 10th April
more info

Friday, 12th April 2024 - Friday, 12th April 2024

Woodland craftsWoodland Craft Day at HighwoodsGet creative at High Woods Country Park this Easter. Come and join our woodland craft session on Friday 12th April.
more info

Saturday, 27th April 2024 - Saturday, 27th April 2024

Sunday, 28th April 2024 - Sunday, 28th April 2024

Bluebells at High Woods Country ParkBluebell Map at Highwoods Country ParkPick up a map from the Visitor Centre and find the best bluebell areas in the park to explore
more info

Facilities

Accessibility

  • Disabled access
  • Disabled toilets
  • Wheelchairs available

Catering

  • On-site light refreshments
  • Picnic site

Children

  • Baby changing facilities
  • Children welcome

Groups

  • Education/study area
  • Facilities for educational visits

Parking

  • Parking with charge

Property Facilities

  • Dogs Accepted
  • Gift shop
  • Public toilets

Target Markets

  • Accepts groups

Map & Directions

Colchester

Road Directions

By Road:Come out of the train station and take the second exit on the roundabout, Bruff Close. Follow this road to the end where it meets Northern Approach Road (A134) Cross over the A134 and turn right into Turner Road. Continue along Turner Road and High Woods Country Park is the fifth turning on your right.Accessible by Public Transport: Colchester North station is 1 mile away.

High Woods Country Park

Type:Country Park

Visitor Centre, Turner Road, Highwoods, Colchester, Essex, CO4 5JR

Tel: 01206 853588

Awards

  • Other AwardsSelf-assessed Accessibility Information Self-assessed Accessibility Information
  • Other AwardsGreen Flag Award Green Flag Award 2022

Opening Times

* Visitor Centre open daily, 9.30am - 4.30pm
Car park open 7am-10pm Summer, 7am-7pm winter.