About

Follow the river Colne down from Castle Park in Colchester town centre, through nature, woods and fields and discover the riverside town of Wivenhoe. This historic port is a picturesque part of Colchester’s coastal line, set on the estuary to the North Sea.

Walks

Wivenhoe is ideal for walks, both relaxing Sunday strolls or as a good stop off point on longer hikes. The Wivenhoe trail running from the Hythe to Wivenhoe is a 4 mile scenic riverside walk, with wonderful pubs and restaurants to welcome you for a rewarding refreshment at the end.

• Try the Town to Sea or Wivenhoe trail, taking you from Colchester town centre to the Hythe or on to Wivenhoe, with interesting artwork along the way telling you about the history of the river and its ports.
• Find various nature spots in the area, including the Wivenhoe Woods, Marshes and Hythe lagoons. These well-kept areas are great for wildlife exploring. The village of Fingringhoe just across the river is home to Fingringhoe Wick nature reserve (Essex Wildlife Trust).
• In warmer months, take the foot ferry to other great walking spots in the area, such as Brightlingsea, Rowhedge and Fingringhoe

Walk through the windy streets of Wivenhoe and take in the wonky medieval buildings and beautiful timber-framed houses. An historic port, Wivenhoe has a wealth of history reflected in its buildings and streets. Find out more about this history and culture by exploring

• St Mary the Virgin church, a part-Saxon building with Roman tiles
• Nottage Maritime Museum, open certain months
• Sentinel Gallery, an art gallery with rotating exhibitions


A small ferry operated by local volunteers runs between May – October. The ferry goes between Wivenhoe and Rowhedge, and can drop you off at Fingringhoe upon special request.

Reward yourself after a long hike, or simply indulge in the great pub food with riverside views, in some of the great places to eat in Wivenhoe:
• Riverside Pubs
• Tearooms
• Restaurants
• Award-winning Fish & Chips shops

For more information on Wivenhoe and other towns and villages in Colchester's beautiful Borough visit www.visitcolcheter.com