Colchester Loop

An 11 mile loop around Colchester starting and finishing at Colchestser Leisure World using mostly bike paths plus a few short sections on low traffic roads.  Leaving Leisure World head towards Asda via the industrial/retail area and take the bike path to cross the footbridge near the station.  Take the easiest uphill section out of Colchester to Colchester Stadium and it's then flat or downhill most of the way back. Take the bike paths on Axial Way and Severals Lane to St John's, and take the path parallel to St John's Rd to Welshwood.  There's a bit of fun off road downhill through the fields at the back of Welshwood - brake evenly all the way down to avoid having to brake heavily at the end.  Take the bike path along Salary Brook to the University and cross the zig-zag bridge to B&Q.  The home leg is via the park.  If required adapt the route to stop for refreshment at the Oak Tree Coffee House near Highwoods' Tesco.