LOCKDOWN rules have eased again today, allowing small gatherings of up to six people outside.
The Government's 'stay at home' message has also changed to reflect the current restrictions, and is now encouraging people to get outside and get some fresh air.
Ministers are now calling for the public to participate in a fitness drive, with children recommended to aim for an hour of physical activity a day, and adults for at least 150 minutes.
The fitness drive comes after the latest figures showed more than 150,000 deaths involving coronavirus have been recorded in the UK.
So with restrictions easing outdoors and people urged to exercise more, here are some of our places for a walk to enjoy in and around Colchester you may want to try for yourself.
Here they are:
Castle Park
steve brading..10-08-15 sb .Castle Park, Colchester..
This one is obvious.
Castle Park is known as the jewel in Colchester's crown and one of the most iconic open spaces in Essex.
As well as the historic scenery and Norman castle to take in on your walks, there's the park's famous squirrel population to spot.
There's plenty of places to stop for a break too with many benches and picnic spots located across the park.
You could get lost in the park for hours and walk as much, or little, distance as you wish.
High Woods Country Park
The country park is a favourite amongst residents of Colchester and one of the most popular spots for a stroll in the borough.
There's lots of entrances to the sprawling site, which can take you from the Colchester Hospital area right through to the other end of Highwoods.
There's plenty of wildlife and various signposted walking routes of varying distances to enjoy.
Wivenhoe Trail
general pics of the Hythe, especially Wivenhoe Trail for Gazette Weekend walk..11/4/20-13.CALLED OFF TO GO TO TOLLGATE/HARWICH.
One of the most popular walks in Colchester, the Wivenhoe Trail is an informal route of about 5 miles, stretching from Colchester town centre to the riverside town of Wivenhoe.
You can start in Castle Park by the River Colne and head towards Wivenhoe, or start further along near Hythe if you're after a shorter jaunt.
The trail will take you all the way to Wivenhoe Station, so you could hop on a train back at the other end if needs be.
Read more:
- Covid: When can I hug my family and friends again?
- Cowabunga Pizza to reopen in new premises in Colchester
- Boris Johnson to lead Covid briefing at Downing Street
Abberton Reservoir
Essex Widlife Trust manage Abberton, usually running a range of outdoor activities at the centre.
It is a perfect spot for a quiet walk and you can even do a spot of birdwatching whilst there.
Hopefully the activities will be able to restart soon, but it is still a perfect spot for a quiet stroll.
Constable Country
Victorian Xmas at Flatford Mill on Sunday.26/11/2017.
Travel a little further afield and you can take in the surroundings of Constable Country.
The walk between Dedham and Flatford Mill is particularly popular and just a mile and-a-half each way so perfect for a quick visit.
Lexden Park Local Nature Reserve
At seven hectares this nature reserve is small, and hidden, gem in Colchester.
It is popular with walkers and residents in the area.
There's plenty to explore and enjoy and you can do a few loops if you want to get a bit more exercise.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here