Hythe Lagoons

A 17 acre site which lies to the south of the Colchester's former harbour, between the Hythe and Rowhedge. It comprises a number of former dredging lagoons. The dredging ceased in the mid seventies and the site is now a local nature reserve managed by Colchester Borough Council. Join our Facebook Page for more pictures and discussion.

Recording area

The map indicates the area covered for recording purposes.


Getting there

On foot or by bicycle

On the lagoon side of the river, a public footpath and cycle track runs alongside the river from Colchester to Rowhedge. The surface is good, however there are three gates. These may be negotiable by some wheelchairs, but access to the hide involves a steep slope and steps.

On the opposite side is a footpath and cycle track from Colchester to Wivenhoe, also accessible from Essex University via a rail crossing.

By bus

The nearest bus stops are:

Haven Road
Whitehall Road
Station Road, Wivenhoe
s1 Wivenhoe - Highwoods Tesco
via Hythe, Colchester town and railway station
Hythe Hill s4
74, 76
Colchester - Greenstead
Colchester - Clacton
Head Street, Rowhedge s9 Rowhedge - Colchester

By train

The nearest railway stations are Hythe (Essex) and Wivenhoe.

By ferry

A ferry runs between Wivenhoe and Rowhedge around high tide between April and October. Consult the timetable in advance.

By car

There is limited parking available in Rowhedge so it's better to drive along Haven Road as far as you can go and park near the sewage works.