Walking in Colchester

In Colchester, an afternoon stroll is a fantastic way to explore the local history and scenery. The city and its surrounding countryside boast a wide range of walks, trails and dedicated footpaths to suit every taste; from short historical walks around the city, to long distance footpaths that pass through the area, you'll certainly find the perfect walk for you on this page. 

Short Scenic Walks

Colchester Castle Park is a fantastic spot in the heart of the city to take a quick walk. From a riverside stroll to scenic gardens, as well as bags of history including Colchester Castle itself. We’d recommend stretching your legs here to anyone, regardless of experience. This route is perfect for families too, as there are plenty of benches to rest along the way, and a great playground to work off any excess energy!

For some extra structure, you can pick up a tree trail or a family activity trail from the Visitor Information Centre at Hollytrees Museum, conveniently located in Upper Castle Park.

Further afield, local nature reserves from High Woods Country Park, to Fingringhoe, Abberton, and Cudmore Grove in East Mersea all have plenty of scenic walks to enjoy, and let's not forget Constable Country - a designated are of outstanding natural beauty with walking trails that will take your breath away.

Take a Walk Through History

Discover Colchester’s History with one of our fantastic Guided Walking Tours with one of our talented and knowledgable city guides. For a self-guided route, our top recommendation is the Hidden Colchester Trail which can be purchased from the Visitor Information Centre at Hollytrees Museum for £2.50 – it’s a perfect introduction to the city and all it’s history. However, other options are available including guides to the Roman Walls, the Siege of Colchester, Colchester’s Concrete Murals, or a Blue Plaque trail.

For the technologically minded, you can also download the Ancient Colchester app, or a Roman Colchester audio tour and navigate the city from your smartphone or table.

Longer Walks

From the city centre, a riverside stroll to Wivenhoe Town to Sea trail to Colchester’s historic port, then continue along the Wivenhoe Trail beside the river bank to the picturesque town of Wivenhoe. There are regular buses and trains to get you back to your starting point again.

Locals might enjoy the Colchester Orbital – a 15 mile walk around the hidden paths, parks and backstreets encircling the city. If you're feeling adventurous you can tackle it all at once, or for a more relaxed route, the Colchester Orbital can be taken in sections.

For the peace and serenity a proper hike, two long distance footpaths run close by; the Essex Way and Stour Valley path, and of course the Dedham Vale in Constable Country offers a network of footpaths to explore in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

The Visit Colchester Team are always happy to help you plan your trip, and you can pick up more walking trails and maps from the Visitor Information Centre in Castle Park.