AS the school holidays start and we hope for some longer spells of sunshine, here are some walks to explore with the family and to see some beautiful parts of the area.
Here are five options which are listed on AllTrails best walks in Colchester list.
Chappell and Chalkney Wood
Some of the beauty offered in Chalkney Wood (Image: Credited)
This 8.4 kilometre loop trail, which takes an average of around two hours to complete, is a popular route for walking, hiking and running.
Starting in Chappel – six miles outside of Colchester, it takes in arable land, river valley grazing meadows and the largest wood in the area.
The route is generally easy although there is one steady climb up a slope.
At the beginning and towards the end of the walk, there will be grazing livestock such as sheep, where dogs will have to be kept close by.
Wivenhoe and the Colne Estuary
Wivenhoe has some picturesque views on a hot day (Image: Credited)
This looped walk is just over 10 kilometres in distance and is considered moderately challenging.
Completed in an average of just over two hours, this is a popular route for birding, hiking and running.
Starting four miles south east of Colchester, the return leg of the walk runs along the edge of Alresford Creek and the Colne Estuary.
The route is mainly along well-defined tracks and paths but does have some overgrown and muddy sections so appropriate footwear should be worn.
Dedham, River Stour and Manningtree circular
The River Stour is just one view on the Dedham and Manningtree route (Image: Credited)
At just over 11 kilometres, this walk is seen as an easy one, taking around two hours and 20 minutes.
This waterside trail, goes along the River Stour and over the farmlands between Dedham and Manningtree, with scenic paths and chances to spot wildlife on the river.
It is worth knowing that this trail includes the crossing of busy roads, where great care is needed.
On the rougher sections, it can get quite muddy and slippery when conditions are wet.
High Woods Country Park circular
High Woods Country Park is filled with greenery - a nice escape from the city (Image: Credited)
This shorter route of just under four kilometres takes an average of just under an hour to complete.
This area boasts different trail options which have varying elevation levels.
Encountering other people on this walk is unlikely and is a brilliant route for walking, hiking and running.
Abberton Reservoir circuit
Abberton Reservoir possesses natural beauty and countless species of wildlife (Image: Credited)
The Abberton Reservoir circuit is just under 20 kilometres in length and is considered moderately challenging.
This walk is perfect for bird watchers who can hopefully see some beautiful wildlife and considered the single best reservoir in the country for bird watching.
The route starts five and a half kilometres outside of Colchester, the only issue with this route is some of it involves walking along the road side with no pavement.
With over 280 species being spotted here, it is a great one for wildlife fanatics.
For the full list of options please visit alltrails.com/en-gb/england/essex/colchester/city-walk.
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