Jumbo Water Tower, Colchester
Colchester’s iconic Victorian water tower, once vital for clean water and firefighting, now a symbol of civic pride and heritage revival.
Rising above Colchester’s historic core, the Jumbo Water Tower is the largest surviving Victorian municipal water tower in England. Built in 1883 as a bold solution to public health and fire safety, this red-brick giant was nicknamed after a famous London Zoo elephant and has since become a beloved local landmark. Though no longer in use, its imposing Romanesque Revival design and rich civic history make it a striking symbol of Colchester’s industrial past and community resilience.
A brief summary to Jumbo Water Tower
- Balkerne Gate, Colchester, Colchester, CO1 1PT, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Check the official Jumbo Water Tower or North Essex Heritage website before visiting, as access is currently limited and tours are only available on specific dates.
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography of the red-brick tower.
- Combine your visit with Colchester Castle, the Roman Wall, and the town’s historic core for a full day of history and architecture.
- If attending a guided tour, wear sturdy, closed footwear as access to the tank is via a steep spiral staircase with many steps.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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On foot from Colchester Town Station
From Colchester Town Station, follow the main route towards the town centre and High Street, then head towards Balkerne Hill and the Roman Wall. The walk takes about 15 minutes on paved, level paths and is suitable for most visitors.
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On foot from Colchester Castle
From Colchester Castle and its museum, walk along the Roman Wall and Balkerne Hill. The tower is clearly visible and about a 10-minute walk away on well-maintained footpaths, making it an easy addition to a historic walk.
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By local bus
Several local bus routes serve Colchester town centre and stop near the High Street or Balkerne Hill. From there, it’s a short, level walk of 5–10 minutes to the tower, following signs for the Roman Wall and historic sites.
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By car
Public car parks are available in Colchester town centre, a 5–10 minute walk from the tower. The route from the car park to Jumbo is on pavements and is straightforward, though the immediate area around the tower has limited dedicated parking.
Jumbo Water Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Jumbo Water Tower
A Victorian Giant for Public Health
Standing 40 metres tall with a tank that once held 230,000 gallons of water, Jumbo Water Tower was Colchester’s answer to a growing crisis in the 1880s. As the town expanded, contaminated wells led to cholera outbreaks and frequent fires, prompting the council to invest in a modern water supply. Designed by Borough Engineer Charles Clegg and built with 1.2 million locally made bricks, the tower was a major civic project, completed in 1883 at a then-enormous cost. Its primary role was to ensure a constant, clean water supply and provide storage for firefighting, transforming public health and safety in the town.From Derision to Beloved Icon
The tower’s nickname, Jumbo, began as a term of derision from a local reverend who felt the structure dwarfed his church, comparing it to the famous London Zoo elephant. Over time, the name stuck, and the tower’s imposing presence became a point of local pride. Despite early controversy and political rows over its cost, Jumbo quickly became a defining feature of Colchester’s skyline. It survived the Great English Earthquake of 1884 with only minor damage, and the visible cracks in its brickwork today are thought to be from the building settling rather than seismic damage, adding to its character.Engineering and Design Legacy
Jumbo is a fine example of Victorian municipal engineering in a Romanesque Revival campanile style, inspired by Colchester’s Roman past and the nearby Balkerne Gate. The iron tank, constructed using techniques similar to those used in iron-hulled ships, was supplied by a local foundry and weighed around 1,000 tons when full. The tower’s design combined practicality with civic grandeur, reflecting the era’s confidence in engineering and public works. It remained in service for nearly a century, only being decommissioned in the 1980s when modern water systems made it redundant.From Abandonment to Heritage Revival
After being sold off in the late 1980s, Jumbo passed through several private owners who proposed various redevelopment schemes, including luxury penthouses and restaurants, most of which were rejected. For decades it stood largely unused, at risk of inappropriate conversion. In 2021, North Essex Heritage secured a long-term lease with the aim of restoring the Grade II* listed tower for sustainable public use. Plans include a heritage centre, improved accessibility, and community facilities, ensuring Jumbo’s legacy continues as a place for education and celebration of Colchester’s history.What to Experience Today
The tower is currently not open for regular public access, but it can be admired from the outside at any time of day. Information boards around the site explain its history, engineering, and significance, making it an easy stop on a walk through Colchester’s historic core. Occasional guided tours and special events, often run by heritage groups or as part of Heritage Open Days, offer rare opportunities to climb the steep spiral staircase and stand inside the vast, empty tank. These visits provide a powerful sense of scale and a direct connection to the town’s Victorian past, with panoramic views over Colchester from the top.Planning Your Visit
Jumbo is centrally located near Colchester’s High Street and Roman Wall, making it easy to combine with visits to the castle, museum, and other historic sites. The best light for photography is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun highlights the red brickwork. As the tower is undergoing regeneration, access is limited and subject to special arrangements; checking the official Jumbo or North Essex Heritage websites in advance is essential for any planned visit. Even from the outside, Jumbo offers a compelling glimpse into Victorian civic ambition and the enduring power of local landmarks.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Balkerne Gate
0.1 km
Explore Balkerne Gate, Britain's largest surviving Roman gateway, a monumental symbol of Colchester’s ancient Roman heritage and architectural mastery.
Roman Theatre
0.5 km
Ancient Roman amphitheatre where 3,000 spectators once gathered, now marked by darker paving in Colchester's historic streets.
Natural History Museum
0.6 km
Discover Colchester’s natural past and present in a charming historic church turned family-friendly museum with free entry and engaging exhibits.
Colchester War Memorial
0.6 km
A dignified tribute in the heart of Colchester honoring the sacrifice and service of its wartime heroes.
Middle Mill Weir
0.6 km
Historic Middle Mill Weir on the River Colne, a testament to Colchester’s water-powered industrial heritage and enduring community spirit.
Finchingfield Post Mill
31.7 km
Discover Essex’s oldest post mill, a charming 18th-century landmark overlooking the picturesque village of Finchingfield.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
34.0 km
The only complete Chain Home radar tower in the UK, a towering symbol of WWII air defence and Cold War innovation in Great Baddow.
National Trust - Sutton Hoo
38.1 km
Explore Sutton Hoo, an iconic archaeological site revealing the secrets of the Anglo-Saxon era in stunning natural surroundings.
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
39.5 km
Explore the earliest princely Anglo-Saxon burial in England, revealing a royal Christian tomb rich with ancient treasures and history.
Southchurch Hall
40.8 km
Explore the historical elegance and serene gardens of Southchurch Hall, a captivating museum in Southend-on-Sea that reveals the region's rich heritage.
Wayfinding Stone
40.8 km
Explore the Wayfinding Stone in Southend-on-Sea, a unique monument that symbolizes navigation and adventure, connecting visitors to local heritage.
Southchurch Park
41.2 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Southchurch Park, a serene escape in Southend-on-Sea perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks.
Sealife Adventure
41.5 km
Explore the captivating marine life at Sealife Adventure, Southend-on-Sea's premier aquarium, featuring over 40 exhibits and interactive experiences.
Southend-on-Sea Seafront
41.5 km
Discover the magic of Southend-on-Sea Seafront, where tradition meets seaside fun, perfect for family outings and creating lasting memories.
Southend Pier and Railway
41.5 km
Discover the iconic Southend Pier and Railway, a historic landmark offering breathtaking views, delightful train rides, and family-friendly activities.
Unmissable attractions to see
Colchester Arts Centre
0.1 km
Experience vibrant live performances and community spirit at Colchester Arts Centre, the cultural heart of historic Colchester.
The Dutch Quarter
0.3 km
Explore Colchester’s Dutch Quarter, a charming enclave of historic timber-framed houses and Flemish weaving heritage nestled in Britain’s oldest town.
Lion Walk Shopping Centre
0.4 km
Colchester’s vibrant shopping heart blending historic charm with high street brands and diverse dining experiences.
Colchester Castle
0.6 km
Explore Europe’s largest Norman keep, built on Roman temple ruins, with immersive history, interactive exhibits, and stunning views in Colchester’s Castle Park.
St John's Abbey Gate
0.6 km
Explore the beautifully preserved 15th-century gatehouse that stands as the last remnant of Colchester’s historic Benedictine St John’s Abbey.
English Heritage - St Botolph's Priory
0.7 km
Explore St Botolph's Priory in Colchester, where history, architecture, and tranquility converge in a breathtaking heritage site.
National Trust - Bourne Mill
1.8 km
Step back in time at Bourne Mill, a picturesque Elizabethan watermill blending historic charm with tranquil gardens in the heart of Colchester.
Lexden Earthworks & Bluebottle Grove
2.1 km
Explore ancient Iron Age earthworks and tranquil woodlands rich with history and seasonal bluebells in Colchester’s historic Lexden Park.
High Woods Country Park
2.4 km
Explore 150 hectares of ancient woodland, lakes, and wildflower meadows in Colchester’s award-winning High Woods Country Park.
Iron Latch
4.2 km
A peaceful Essex Wildlife Trust reserve near Colchester, offering tranquil woodland walks and rich wildlife in a compact natural setting.
Roman River Valley
5.1 km
A serene 17.8-hectare wetland reserve with ancient woodland and rare plants along the picturesque Roman River in Essex.
Colchester Zoo
5.1 km
Explore 60 acres of diverse wildlife habitats and immersive animal encounters at Colchester Zoo, a leading conservation and family attraction in Essex.
Hillhouse Wood
5.5 km
Discover peaceful trails, vibrant bluebells, and diverse wildlife in Hillhouse Wood, a cherished natural retreat near Colchester.
Essex Wildlife Trust Fingringhoe Wick Nature Discovery Park
8.1 km
Discover vibrant habitats and rich wildlife at Fingringhoe Wick, a transformed nature reserve with stunning estuary views near Colchester.
Wyvernwood
9.4 km
Step into Wyvernwood’s magical kingdom for a family adventure filled with dragons, fairies, and enchanting play in Essex’s captivating outdoor theme park.
Essential places to dine
Harvester Stanway Colchester
4.4 km
Casual family-friendly British bar & grill in Colchester offering fresh, flavorful meals from breakfast to dinner in a relaxed setting.
Talbooth Restaurant
9.6 km
Award-winning Modern British fine dining on the River Stour, where 19th-century charm meets contemporary culinary excellence.
The Barn Brasserie, Great Tey
10.1 km
Historic 16th-century barn meets modern British dining in a charming Essex countryside setting with warm hospitality and versatile event spaces.
Scutchers
25.0 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic village of Long Melford, blending exceptional cuisine with warm, polished service.
The Great House Hotel and Restaurant
25.3 km
Historic elegance and exquisite dining converge in the heart of Lavenham’s medieval Market Place.
The Eaterie @ the Salthouse Harbour Hotel
25.7 km
Modern British dining with fresh local seafood and stunning marina views at Ipswich’s stylish Salthouse Harbour Hotel.
The Square & Compasses
26.1 km
A charming Essex countryside gastropub blending rustic warmth with refined British cuisine and local ales.
Castle - Great Leighs
27.6 km
A charming and cozy English village pub in Great Leighs serving freshly cooked, reasonably priced meals with friendly service and warm ambiance.
Galvin Green Man
31.4 km
Historic 14th-century gastropub near Chelmsford offering award-winning seasonal British cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
Rose & Crown - Great Waltham
31.5 km
Essex village gastro pub where seasonal menus and warm hospitality create memorable dining moments.
Vita Bella
32.6 km
Authentic Italian cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming village setting near Chelmsford.
Russells Restaurant
33.2 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
33.6 km
A vibrant British restaurant in Chelmsford’s town centre, serving all-day meals, seasonal specials, and welcoming guests with a lively atmosphere.
Cosy Club
33.7 km
Experience timeless art deco charm and inclusive British dining at Cosy Club Chelmsford, open all day for every occasion.
Fête at Grays Brewery Yard
33.7 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bestdays Vintage
0.4 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion and eclectic music treasures in a cozy, welcoming Colchester shop with a personal touch.
Rocks & Rubies
0.5 km
Discover rare crystals, artisan gifts, and spiritual treasures in the heart of historic Colchester.
Love Local Essex & Suffolk
6.8 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures celebrating the rich heritage and creativity of Essex and Suffolk at this charming Copford gift shop.
Quirky Old Stuff
12.8 km
Discover a whimsical world of antiques and vintage curiosities in Manningtree’s most eclectic shop, where every item tells a story.
The Emporium
21.9 km
Discover unique gifts, exquisite candles, and enchanting perfumes at The Emporium in Holland-on-Sea’s charming Kings Avenue.
The Emporium Maldon
23.0 km
A beloved family-run gift and garden shop in Maldon’s historic High Street, renowned for variety, community spirit, and local charm.
George Yard Shopping Centre
23.7 km
A vibrant pedestrianised shopping hub in Braintree offering diverse stores and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Essential Vintage
25.9 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion classics in the heart of Ipswich’s charming Eagle Street.
Heady's Hobbies & Gifts
26.2 km
Discover creativity and charm at Heady's Hobbies & Gifts, Walton on the Naze’s family-run craft shop with unique handmade treasures and inspiring workshops.
The Lovely Shop
29.8 km
Explore the unique offerings of The Lovely Shop in Burnham-on-Crouch, where local craftsmanship meets delightful gift ideas.
Emporium on the Quay
29.9 km
Discover unique local crafts and gifts in a charming riverside boutique on Burnham-on-Crouch’s scenic Quay.
Riverside Retail Park
33.2 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
The Curiosity Shop
36.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Great Dunmow at The Curiosity Shop, a charming boutique with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Factory Shops
39.1 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
Steptoe and Mum / Antique and Retro Boutique / With House Clearance Service
40.3 km
A cluttered, character-filled secondhand boutique in Southend-on-Sea, packed with vintage furniture, retro homewares, and quirky collectables.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Three Wise Monkeys
0.5 km
A vibrant multi-floor pub in Colchester offering craft beers, hearty smokehouse food, and lively events in a unique historic setting.
The best bar none mobile bar hire
23.0 km
Family-run mobile bar hire in Southminster, Essex, delivering bespoke drinks and vibrant atmospheres for weddings and events across the UK.
The Queen Victoria Public House
23.8 km
Historic British pub in Maldon offering freshly prepared fare, an extensive wine list, and warm, attentive service in a charming setting.
Boom Battle Bar Chelmsford
33.6 km
Chelmsford’s premier games bar blending axe throwing, shuffleboard, street food, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out.
Voodoo Keller Bar
33.7 km
Discover Chelmsford’s underground cellar bar with 12 craft taps, lively rock vibes, and a cosy atmosphere perfect for beer lovers and night owls.
Slug & Lettuce - Chelmsford
33.7 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Chelmsford offering creative drinks, stylish interiors, and a lively social atmosphere from brunch to late night.
The Bootmaker
33.8 km
Historic Chelmsford pub and cocktail bar blending tradition with modern social dining and handcrafted drinks.
Be At One - Chelmsford
33.9 km
Discover over 100 cocktails and vibrant nightlife at Be At One Chelmsford, featuring rooftop terrace and unbeatable happy hour deals.
The Woolpack
33.9 km
A vibrant Victorian pub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with lively events, great ales, and hearty American-British fare.
The Ale House
34.0 km
Chelmsford’s vibrant craft beer bar where you can bring your own food and enjoy a welcoming, lively atmosphere with expert service.
The Orange Tree
34.5 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Fox & Hounds
35.5 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
Saxon King
39.3 km
A cozy British pub in Southend-on-Sea blending historic charm with hearty classics and family-friendly warmth.
The Bear Inn - Stock
40.0 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
The Exchange Bar & Kitchen
40.3 km
A vibrant grill and live music pub in Southend-on-Sea offering classic British fare with a modern twist and a lively atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
0.2 km
Experience Colchester’s lively nightlife with Rubix Bar & Nightclub’s energetic music, vibrant dance floor, and welcoming social scene every weekend night.
Trilogy Nightclub
0.3 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
The Club
25.7 km
Experience Ipswich’s vibrant nightlife at The Club, where music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere come alive in the city centre.
Supper Club
25.8 km
Lively nightclub in Ipswich offering great drinks, music, and a vibrant social scene from afternoon until early morning.
Popworld - Chelmsford
33.7 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
33.9 km
A large, lively nightclub in Chelmsford known for affordable drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and a mix of praise and controversy around its staff and music.
Club Tantalize
33.9 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Carbon Nightclub
34.1 km
Experience Stowmarket’s lively nightlife at Carbon Nightclub, a modern venue pulsing with music and weekend energy.
The Lounge Jazz Club
37.9 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
40.5 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, top DJs, and a lively atmosphere at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Just Vibez
40.8 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
Foundation
41.4 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Sunrooms2
41.4 km
Experience Southend-on-Sea’s dynamic nightlife at Sunrooms², where live music and DJ-driven parties keep the energy alive until the early hours.
MYST Club
41.4 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
Flex Nightclub
41.5 km
Lively late-night nightclub in Bury St. Edmunds offering dance music, bar service, and a bustling atmosphere with a local crowd.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Historic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Protected Area
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
