Local attractions in Colchester

Often celebrated as Britain’s oldest recorded city, once serving as the Roman capital, Colchester is a treasure trove of historical landmarks and cultural sites. Not just that, the city is surrounded by stunning greenery, providing a host of opportunities for nature getaways. So, beyond the well-known attractions, like Colchester Castle, let’s look at the unique gems of Colchester only locals know about!

Just a 10-minute drive away from Colchester city centre, Gosbecks Archaeological Park is one of the most significant sites in the country, dating back to the Iron Age and Roman eras. Covering 65 hectares of farmland and grassland, the area represents the historic importance of Camulodunum (present day Colchester), as the royal residence of many native kings.

The archaeological park is also home to the remains of one of the largest known Roman theatres in Britain, once accommodating 5000 people, as well as a double portico and a Romano-Celtic Temple. Today, Gosbecks is a popular spot amongst dog walkers and families who enjoy exploring the ancient history of the area.

Another site of great significance, the Balkerne Gate, is the largest surviving Roman Gateway in the country. Experts believe that the gate was built in the 2nd century AD, consisting of two broad carriageways, and served as the entrance to the town wall of Camulodunum for those coming from Londinium (Roman London). Although the site only survived in part, it’s one of the best-preserved Roman gateways, with only a few similar examples in Europe.

Adjacent to this fascinating site is The Hole in the Wall Pub. Built in the 18th-century and listed as a Grade I building, this pub is the perfect spot to wind down after a long day of exploring Colchester’s historic past. Serving a great selection of lagers and real ales, The Hole in the Wall is a bustling social hub with a beer garden, pool, darts, and regular live entertainment.

For nature lovers, the Salary Brook Nature Reserve offers serene landscapes, housing a diverse range of flora and fauna. Occupying 19.5 hectares of grassland and wetland along the river valley, the reserve boasts three ponds, two of which are fishing permitted.

This breathtaking nature spot is accessible from several points, with a network of walking trails and cycle paths. As you walk around, try to spot the sheer variety of plants in the area (there are over 100 different species!), as well as a wealth of animal species, such as dormice, water voles, and otters.

Colchester played an important role in military defence during World War II and, while a lot of the structures have been long removed, there are a few hidden pieces of evidence left. These shelters are found in various locations across the city, including the Colchester Garrison area, in the grounds of Abbey House, in Castle Park, on Beverley Road, and many others. Although the majority of these bunkers and shelters are not open to the public, spotting one while wandering around the city is an exciting find!

Located on Bounstead Road in Colchester, Friday Wood is both a nature reserve enjoyed by the locals and an army training area. As part of the Roman River Site of Special Scientific Interest, this ancient woodland is known for its rich biodiversity. From an array of birds, butterflies, dragonflies, and moths, to many varieties of fungi, Friday Wood is the ideal place for wildlife watching.

If you are looking for a long afternoon walk, the circular trail will be ideal, spanning 4 miles around the woodland area and its public pathways. If you happen to visit in spring, you’re in luck, as the whole woodland floor gets covered in bluebells, creating a magical atmosphere!

Built in 1883, the Balkerne Water Tower, also known as Jumbo, is a beloved local attraction with unique heritage. Although the tower is currently vacant, it was originally designed as a solution for clean water supply to Colchester, after a number of devastating fires causing major public health concern. Constructed with 1.2 million locally produced bricks, Jumbo is over 40 meters tall and can hold over 230,000 gallons of water, making it the largest surviving Victorian municipal water tower in Britain.

While the structure helped solve many issues, including life-threatening water-borne diseases, its introduction to Colchester wasn’t without challenges. Costing a whopping £11,138 to build, Jumbo received a lot of opposition from the residents, particularly Rural Dean, who did not want this huge structure near his garden. It is he who gave the tower its iconic name, inspired by Jumbo – London Zoo’s infamous elephant.

Stretching south of Colchester, the Roman River Valley is one of the best-preserved nature reserves in Essex, covering 18 hectares of peaceful woodland and a number of walking trails. Strolling along the river edge, you will get to witness a great variety of wildlife, from dragonflies skimming over the water surface to otters playfully diving in the river.

Once you reach the ancient woodland, which is part of the Needle Eye Wood, look out for uncommon and rare birds singing on the branches of oaks, old yews, and hornbeam. While spring and summer months are the most popular time to visit, if you come here in autumn, you may get to witness migrating birds passing through!

With its rich heritage and a vast range of beautiful nature spots, Colchester truly caters to all interests. And, we’ve barely scratched the surface on the hundreds of things to do and see in this fascinating city.

If Colchester sounds like the perfect place to call home, we’d love to help you make it happen. Our knowledgeable team of local estate agents will be happy to show you around our available properties for rent and sale in Colchester.