Summer Holiday Activities in Colchester

Hours of fun in Colchester this summer - for every age

The summer holidays are long. Six weeks is a lot of time to fill, and if you have children of different ages - or you are planning a day out with another family - finding something that works for everyone is the real challenge. Soft play suits the little ones but bores the older kids. A full round of golf is too much for anyone under ten. Most places do one thing well and leave the rest of the group with nothing to do.

Lexden Wood is a golf club on the edge of Colchester with a parkland setting - and in the summer holidays it works just as well as a family activity centre. There is enough variety on site that different ages can do different things at the same time, or you can move through activities together and fill an entire afternoon without running out of things to do.

What’s on at Lexden Wood this summer

Here is a rundown of everything available on site. You do not need to be a member for any of it.

Why Lexden Wood works for multi-family days out

Planning a summer day out with two or three families is logistically complicated. You need somewhere with enough space, enough to do, somewhere good to eat, and somewhere that does not require everyone to do the same thing at the same time.

At Lexden Wood you can easily fill three to four hours without repeating yourself. A dad joins an Enhance gym class while the kids play footgolf. Mum does yoga on the terrace. The toddlers are in the play area. The teenagers hit range balls and argue about who hit it furthest. Everyone converges for pizza and ice cream at the end. Nobody is bored, nobody is waiting for someone else to finish, and you have not had to drive to three different locations to make it happen.

The club is also genuinely relaxed about groups. No dress code for visitors using the activities, free car park, and no pressure to spend beyond what you book. A working golf club with a proper community feel - not a theme park with queues and upsells at every turn.

Enhance gym classes - drop in this summer

Enhance runs a full programme of group fitness classes from the club throughout the summer. Classes cover a range of formats and fitness levels - whether you want something high-energy or a more relaxed session, there is likely something on the schedule that fits.

For parents, it is an ideal way to keep up a fitness routine during the holidays without needing to find childcare - the kids are busy with activities on site while you get your session in. Get in touch to find out what is on and when.

Where is Lexden Wood?

The club is on Bakers Lane, Colchester, CO3 4AU - a few minutes from the town centre, easy to reach from Stanway, Lexden, West Bergholt, Great Horkesley and the surrounding villages. There is free parking on site.

It is also well-placed for families coming from Mersea Island, Wivenhoe, Tiptree, Witham and other parts of north Essex looking for a full day out that does not mean a long drive.

Tips for making the most of your visit

• Book the summer deal in advance - slots for mini golf and footgolf are popular in the holidays and can fill up, especially at weekends
• Check the Enhance class schedule when you book - sessions fill up quickly in the summer holidays so it is worth reserving a spot
• Come in the morning - the course and range are quieter before midday and the weather tends to be more forgiving
• Order pizza on arrival - it is ready when you come back in, so there is no waiting around when the kids are hungry
• Save room for ice cream - it would be a shame not to
• Wear comfortable shoes - trainers are fine for all activities except a full round of golf
• Bring suncream - most activities are outdoors and the site is open parkland with limited shade on the range

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be a member to use the activities?

No. Mini golf, footgolf, the driving range, toddler play area and the restaurant are all open to non-members. The Enhance classes and yoga sessions are also open to visitors - just check availability when you book.

What age is the mini golf suitable for?

From around 4 upwards. The course is a manageable length for younger children and interesting enough for teens and adults to enjoy too.

Is there a kids menu in the restaurant?

Yes. The restaurant has a kids menu available throughout the summer holidays, plus ice cream for afters.

How long does the summer deal take?

Allow around two to three hours for the full package - pizza, mini golf or footgolf, and a bucket of range balls. Combine it with a gym class or yoga and you can easily fill a whole morning or afternoon.

Can complete beginners use the driving range?

Absolutely. The range is one of the best ways to try golf for the first time. Clubs are available to borrow and the team are happy to give pointers on how to get started.

Can we book for a large group?

Yes. If you are coming with more than one family or a larger group, get in touch in advance and we will make sure everything is set up for your arrival.