Attractions

Colchester Zoo (10 min)

Colchester Zoo is constantly developing and has won many awards for its work. With over 150 species to see, set in 60 acres of beautiful parkland and lakes, Colchester Zoo is well worth a visit.

Go Bananas (10 min)

Go Bananas is one of the largest indoor adventure play centres in the South East of England with over 20 years of experience in entertaining children and Adults.

Poplar Railway (5 min)

Now in its tenth year, the Poplar Miniature Railway is a firm favourite with families of all ages. The railway was designed to complement the lovely gardens and winds its way gently around Orchard Curve, through the new tunnel.

Wyvnerhood (25 min)

Introducing the Enchanted Kingdom of Wyvernwood, a magical adventure park in a beautiful outdoor setting near Colchester, Essex for families with children aged 2-12. Step through the Magic Portal into another world for a full day of adventure and create magical memories with the family.

Anglian Railway (10 min)

For over 50 years the East Anglian Railway Museum has been transporting visitors of all ages back in time to discover the unique history of the region’s railways. The site covers over 10 acres, you can explore our Victorian station, goods shed and signal boxes to see how passengers and freight have been transported over the years.

Nuclear Bunker (40 min)

Come and witness the three lives of the bunker starting with its role as an RAF ROTOR Station, then a brief period as a civil defence centre through to its most recent life as a Regional Government HQ.

Jimmy's Wildlife (30 min)

Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park is an award winning wildlife park, rare breeds farm, restaurant and wedding venue based in the heart of Suffolk. The wildlife park, owned by TV presenter and conservationist Jimmy Doherty, is home to world class facilities such as Europe’s largest polar bear reserve.

Jump Street (10 min)

AirHop (formerly Jump Street) Colchester is a massive indoor trampoline park in Essex that provides an adrenaline rush for all ages.

Curve Watersports (30 min)

At Curve Water Sports, we specialise in a variety of water sports including wakeboarding, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding. Tuition is a great way to get started so book in your lesson today.

Stantons Farm (20 min)

The farm can trace its origins back to the 12th century and is originally thought to have comprised of 250 acres and farmed both livestock and arable throughout its history.

Grace Boat Trips (30 min)

Lady Grace Boat Trips operates all year round. All Trips must be booked and paid for in advance to secure your trip. Trip options available are as follows: 30 minute trip round the harbour, 1 hour Creek Excursion, 2 hour Wildlife Trip and 3-hour Picnic Trip up to Wivenhoe and Rowhedge.

Putt Park (20 min)

This exciting and challenging putting course has been specially designed to suit all abilities from the novice to the experienced golfer so the whole family can play.

Colne Railway (30 min)

Enjoy a trip on our mile length of line on the original Colne Valley and Halstead Railway. Re-located buildings, signal boxes etc., all lovingly restored by volunteers. Mixture of steam and diesel operating days, miniature 7 1/4" railway, garden layout and a large 00 gauge layout.

Bowling (15 min)

Tenpin Colchester is the place to be
whether it’s a family outing, social night out with friends, or a celebration. We are the ultimate entertainment centre with 20 state-of-the-art bowling lanes.

Suffolk Park (25 min)

Here at Suffolk Leisure Park in Ipswich, there is so much fun to be had with great confidence building activities that develops the mind as well as the body of children and adults alike.

Freeport Outlet (20 min)

Sandy Beaches

Mersea Island Beach (20 Min) - CO5 8DA

Clacton On Sea (30 Min) - CO15 1FS

Frinton on Sea (35 Min) - CO13 9AU

Hikes

Pits Wood is a small, privately owned woodland located near Colchester, Essex. While it’s not part of the Woodland Trust, it is listed as a publicly accessible wood, allowing visitors to enjoy its natural beauty.

Walking to Pits Wood from Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester

Starting from the Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester in Marks Tey, reaching Pits Wood involves a walk of approximately 5 miles (8 km) one way. Here’s a suggested route:

Exit the hotel and head east on London Road (A120).
Continue onto Lexden Road, following signs toward Colchester.
Turn left onto Straight Road, then right onto Church Lane.
Follow Church Lane until you reach the vicinity of Pits Wood.

Please note that this route includes walking along roads without dedicated pedestrian paths in some sections. It’s advisable to wear high-visibility clothing and exercise caution.

Exploring Pits Wood

Pits Wood spans approximately 5 hectares (12.4 acres) and offers a tranquil setting for nature walks. The woodland features a mix of native trees and is home to various wildlife species. While there are no formal trails or facilities, visitors can enjoy informal paths that meander through the woods.

Alternative Nearby Walks

If you’re interested in other walking options starting from the hotel, consider:

Lexden Park: A local nature reserve with grasslands, oak woodlands, and an ornamental lake.
Hilly Fields Nature Reserve: A 37.5-hectare reserve featuring grasslands, woodlands, and ponds.
Wivenhoe Trail: A riverside path following the River Colne from Colchester Castle Park to the town of Wivenhoe.

These alternatives offer well-maintained paths and are popular among local walkers.

If you’re looking for a trail with water features (like rivers, lakes, or streams) and want to start walking from Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester, here are the top recommendations:

1. Lexden Park

Distance from hotel: ~2.5 miles (walkable or a short drive)

Highlights:

Beautiful ornamental lake
Quiet woodland paths and open grass areas
Excellent for birdwatching and a peaceful, short nature walk
Why it’s great: Closest walkable option with a lake; serene and ideal for a half-day walk.

2. Wivenhoe Trail

Distance from hotel: ~4.5 miles to the start at Colchester Castle Park

Trail Length: ~4 miles (Colchester to Wivenhoe)

Highlights:

Follows the scenic River Colne
Flat, accessible trail through countryside and marshes
Ends in the lovely waterfront town of Wivenhoe
Why it’s great: A full day’s adventure with continuous riverside walking, great for photography and nature lovers.

3. Spring Lane Meadows

Distance from hotel: ~3.5 miles

Highlights:

Set along the Roman River
Peaceful meadows and woodland areas
Known for its birdlife, including kingfishers
Why it’s great: More secluded and nature-focused, with direct river access in a quiet setting.

Best Pick for Water + Walk from Hotel:

If you’re looking to walk straight from the hotel, Lexden Park is your best bet for a pleasant walk with a water feature (lake) and minimal traffic. If you’re up for a longer walk or short taxi/bus, Wivenhoe Trail gives the best scenic river walk experience.

Here are some scenic walking routes you can embark on directly from the Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester in Marks Tey:

1. Marks Tey to Great Tey Circular Walk

Distance: Approximately 5 miles (8 km)
Route: Start from the hotel, head west towards Great Tey, and loop back through the countryside.
Highlights: Charming rural landscapes, historic churches, and peaceful country lanes.

2. Marks Tey to Lexden Park

Distance: Approximately 4 miles (6.5 km) one way
Route: Walk east from the hotel towards Lexden Park, a local nature reserve.
Highlights: Grasslands, oak woodlands, and an ornamental lake—ideal for birdwatching and relaxation.

3. Marks Tey to Cymbeline Meadows

Distance: Approximately 6 miles (9.5 km) one way
Route: Head east from the hotel to Cymbeline Meadows, a 74-hectare area comprising meadows, woodlands, and the River Colne.
Highlights: Diverse habitats, scenic river views, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

4. Marks Tey to Wivenhoe Trail

Distance: Approximately 9 miles (14.5 km) one way
Route: Walk east from the hotel to connect with the Wivenhoe Trail, which follows the River Colne to the town of Wivenhoe.
Highlights: Riverside path, picturesque views, and the charming town of Wivenhoe at the trail’s end.