WALK COLCHESTER’S ROMAN WALL: 2,000 Years Strong

/ Essex, UK Travel / By
Two photos of Colchester's Roman Walk, including the Balkerne Gate, with the text 'Colchester's Roman Wall Walk'

WALK COLCHESTER’S ROMAN WALL: 2,000 YEARS STRONG

HERE’S WHY COLCHESTER’S ROMAN WALL BELONGS ON YOUR ITINERARY

Ever imagined building a wall and it still standing in 2,000 years? No, me neither. I’m sure those building it didn’t think so either. Colchester’s Roman Wall, the bearer of many secrets and tales, is a testament to their incredible skill. This marvel is not just the best-preserved town wall in Britain, but also the longest, a true feat of Roman engineering!

Today, the roman wall is a popular tourist attraction, offering a chance to walk along its perimeter and explore its history.

Read on to learn more about its fascinating history and why Colchester’s Roman Wall needs to be on your “must-visit” list!

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Fortified Legacy

Built between AD 65 and 80 following the Boudican rebellion in AD60, Colchester’s Roman Wall served to solidify Roman control and fortify the town. These walls have stood witness to centuries of history, offering a glimpse into Colchester’s past.

Colchester's Roman Wall situated in Priory Street
Colchester's Roman Wall, Priory Street Car Park
Colchester's Roman Wall in Castle Park
Colchester's Roman Wall, Castle Park

A Journey Through Time

A downloadable map from the Visit Colchester website details a walking route around the wall, highlighting not just the original Roman gates, but also intriguing Medieval additions. Keep an eye out for informative plaques scattered along the way – they’ll unlock fascinating details for you. Originally boasting six gates, the walls underwent further development during the Medieval period.

Balkerne Gate: A Gateway to the Past

Today, one section in particular stands out: The Balkerne Gate, Colchester’s most impressive surviving Roman entrance. Holding the title as the largest surviving gateway in Roman Britain, the Balkerne Gate still serves a functional purpose – a gateway into Colchester, much like it did in its heyday. This impressive structure originally boasted two broad carriageways and two footpaths, a true marvel of Roman design. It’s said there are no other quadruple gates like it in Britain!

Balkerne Pedestrian Footpath with a gentleman walking towards camera.
Balkerne Gate Footpath Archway
Balkerne Gate, Colchester Roman remains - a view of the archways to the guard room and the footpath
Balkerne Gate Guard Room & Footpath Archways

Over time, the Balkerne Gate has undergone some changes. Only the remains of the guard tower and one arched footway survive today, having been overbuilt to make way for the “Hole in the Wall” public house. But its historical significance remains. Peek inside the guard tower and you’ll be rewarded with a perfectly framed view of the Jumbo Water Tower through the ancient archway. Intrigued by this colossal landmark? Head over to my dedicated blog JUMBO WATER TOWER: A COLOSSUS IN COLCHESTER to take a closer look.

The Hole in the Wall public house, with part of the roman wall incorporated.
The "Hole in the Wall" Public House, showing some of the Roman Wall
View of the Jumbo Water Tower through Balkerne Guard's Room archway
View of Jumbo Water Tower through Balkerne Gate Guard's Room archway

A Lasting Legacy

Whether you choose to pass through the remaining walkway or walk beside the wall’s remnants, the Balkerne Gate is a powerful reminder of the remarkable skill and vision of Roman architects. This gateway, estimated to date back to the 2nd century AD and incorporating an existing monumental arch from the 1st century, is a true testament to their enduring legacy.

From Overlooked to Overawed: Discovering Colchester’s Roman Walls

The Grade I listed status of the Roman Walls is a well-deserved recognition of its enduring importance. Colchester’s integration of these historical remains into the modern town adds a unique charm. Like me, many people might not realise the significance of these walls at first glance. But exploring them offers a chance to connect with Colchester’s rich history. Now, I can’t help but appreciate the Roman presence whenever I walk around Colchester.

Explore Colchester’s Roman Walls Today!

Walking Colchester’s Roman Walls is a journey through time. These awe-inspiring structures offer a unique glimpse into the town’s rich history. Lace up your walking shoes and embark on your own adventure!

Collage of images: Minories Folly, Colchester Castle, St Botoph's Priory and 17th century cottages - with the text "Things to do in Colchester"Looking for more things to do in Colchester? Why not head over to our blog THINGS TO DO IN COLCHESTER: 9 Reasons to add it to your travel list and discover more.