SPRING has arrived. Which means the weather is taking a turn, the flowers are blooming, the birds are singing and there are fresh opportunities for some picnics in the sun.
Picnics are often a great way to enjoy the outdoors at a cheaper price and there is nothing better than relaxing with your friends and family and some homemade goods.
In and around Colchester, we have no shortage of amazing spots for a picnic - places where you can enjoy some family time whilst also taking in the amazing sights of our part of north Essex.
Here are five of the best spots for a picnic in Colchester.
High Woods Country Park
An obvious choice is the much-loved beauty spot in the northern part of the city.
There is a huge variety of green spaces to choose from in the High Woods Country Park, whether it is on the hills with a view into the city centre, by the lake and wildflower meadows or in the woods itself.
The dedicated picnic area is close to the popular adventure play area and the main car park, which provides a great pre or post picnic activity.
Anglers can also enjoy a day’s fishing in the lake, and permits to do so.
Castle Park
Another relatively obvious one and a hugely popular spot in Colchester.
There are picnic spots galore in the city centre’s crown jewel.
From sitting in the shade of the historic Norman Castle to the picnic tables next to the impressive children's play area, Castle Park offers up many a prime picnic location.
It also boasts perfect views of the Victorian Gardens and wildlife by the river.
Surrounded by the city centre’s shops, restaurants and other businesses, there is also plenty to do before or after you’ve enjoyed your delicious treats.
Bourne Mill
Just a mile south of Colchester sits Bourne Mill, a Grade 1-listed building steeped in history and Colchester's only National Trust property.
It was built as a fishing lodge in 1591, converted to a fulling mill around 1640 and then converted to a corn mill in about 1840, which continued working until the 1930s.
Set in tranquil grounds, next to a millpond and babbling stream, the mill still has a working waterwheel and the grounds give plenty of scope for family fun.
The grounds have a pond, wetlands and woods and are home to a variety of wildlife.
An entry fee is payable, unless you're a National Trust member, but in our eyes it is well worth it.
St Botolph’s Priory
St Botolph's Priory in Colchester Town Centre is often overlooked in favour of the Castle and its surrounding Park, but for an equally historic but perhaps more low-key affair there's still great opportunities for picniccing in the priory's grounds.
St Botolph's Priory was the first English Augustinian priory church, founded at the end of the eleventh century by the Anglo-Saxon minster community of Colchester just a stone’s throw outside of the Roman city walls.
Sadly, only the ruined remains of the nave survive today, having been severely damaged during the Siege of Colchester during the English Civil War, however in many ways it is remains one of the most interesting and visually appealing historic sites in Colchester; a relatively hidden gem right in the heart of the city.
The site remains under the care of English Heritage and the modestly sized grounds are free to explore, with benches and grassland providing opportunities for picnics.
Dedham
This might be slightly cheating but Dedham is not far from Colchester.
Essex's only Designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, The Dedham Vale is a hugely popular spot for picniccers in the summer months.
Across the area, views that inspired the likes of John Constable are complimented with opportunities for scenic hikes and rowing boat hire.
There's lots of perfect spots in Constable Country for a picnic.
You can take in the scenery as well as admire the local wildlife and the walk to Flatford is good for all ages after, or before, you've eaten.
Just make sure you take your litter home with you.
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