Colchester summertime activities and family events

The picturesque coastal towns of Frinton, Walton, and Clacton, provide visitors with plenty of opportunity to enjoy the sun.

The stunning coastline offers an array of activities, from leisurely walks along sandy beaches to thrilling water sports adventures.

Beach huts in Holland-on-Sea, captured by Anthony Alston (Image: Newsquest)

A sailboat in Frinton, captured by Geoff Taylor. (Image: Newsquest)

Not only can beachgoers enjoy rides on the pier and a refreshing drink in a nearby sunny terrace, thrill seekers can also look to indulge in sailing, fishing, paragliding and even horse riding…

Aquatic horse riding on Frinton Beach, captured by Kevin Jay. (Image: Newsquest)

A kite surfer on Walton Beach, captured by Kevin Jay. (Image: Newsquest)

Those looking to spend time by the water can also enjoy kayaking and canoeing, or renting a boat to travel along the River Colne, where Dedham cows flock freely, grazing along the riverbanks.

Tranquil kayaking, captured by Ant Niles (Image: Newsquest)

Reflections along the river Colne, sent in by Ant Niles. (Image: Newsquest)

For those yearning for a more tranquil escape, the enchanting Beth Chatto Gardens provide the perfect setting to be surrounded by nature.

Nestled in Elmstead Market, the gardens bear the legacy of the late Beth Chatto, an esteemed gardener, author, and lecturer. What was once an overgrown wasteland was magically transformed into a thriving oasis by Chatto's green-fingered vision.

The beautiful Beth Chatto gardens, by Maureen Jackson. (Image: Newsquest)

Each corner reveals a harmonious blend of plants specifically adapted to thrive in diverse conditions. The result is an awe-inspiring, garden that captivates and inspires residents and visitors who walk its pathways.

Visitors enjoying the expansive gardens, captured by Maureen Jackson (Image: Newsquest)

Those looking to enjoy time surrounded by animals can visit the Abberton Nature Reserve.

A Spoonbill soars over Abberton, captured by John Fryer-Kelsey. (Image: Newsquest)

Set against the backdrop of Essex and Suffolk Water's expansive Abberton Reservoir, the idyllic sanctuary offers visitors stunning panoramic views of the glistening water and the quaint villages that adorn its shores.

Each year, approximately 40,000 migratory and resident waterfowl flock to this sanctuary, enticed by the shallow muddy margins and vast stretches of rough grassland.

A family enjoying their time at the Colchester Food and Drink Festival last weekend. (Image: Steve Brading)

Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of exciting events hosted at Colchester Castle Park, from food and drink festivals, to music gigs and reenactments of Roman Battles.

For more information on how to enjoy Colchester's wealth of exciting activities this summer, visit inyurl.com/3n8pk574.