⚽ JOBSERVE COMMUNITY STADIUM ⚽
Colchester United – Your Complete Travel Guide for 2025-26
ℹ️ 2025-26 Season Guide: All information has been researched and verified for the current season. Always check cu-fc.com for the latest ticketing and matchday updates before you travel. ⚠️ The JobServe Community Stadium is a cashless venue — card, contactless, Apple Pay and Google Pay only. Parking must be pre-booked via colutickets.com; matchday spaces cost £7.50.
🏟️ ABOUT THE JOBSERVE COMMUNITY STADIUM
The JobServe Community Stadium — officially the Colchester Community Stadium but known by its current sponsorship name — is a compact, modern all-seater ground that opened in August 2008 in the Myland area of north Colchester. Built at a cost of £14 million and owned by Colchester Borough Council, it replaced the club’s former home at Layer Road, where they had played since 1937.
The ground holds around 10,105 and features four single-tiered stands of similar height and design, creating a uniform, modern bowl. Despite its functional appearance, the steep rake of the stands keeps supporters close to the pitch, generating an excellent atmosphere and ensuring that even a modest crowd can create real noise. Sightlines are clean and unobstructed from every seat.
Away supporters are housed in the North Stand, with a standard allocation of around 1,000. For larger followings, part of the East Stand can also be opened, pushing the away capacity to around 2,000. The North Stand is fully covered with good views, and there is a dedicated bar for away fans inside the concourse. Alcohol is served in the away end — a welcome rarity at the League Two level.
Colchester United were founded in 1937 and have spent most of their history as a lower-league club, but with moments that have captured football’s imagination. Most famously, in the 1970-71 FA Cup, the U’s — then of the Fourth Division — beat Leeds United 3–2 in one of the greatest giant-killings in cup history. The club’s highest ever league finish was 10th in the Championship in 2006-07.
The U’s play in blue-and-white stripes with their main rivalry being with Southend United (the Essex derby) and, to a lesser extent, Cambridge United. Colchester gained city status in 2022 — making it one of England’s newest cities — which adds a little more civic pride to the matchday atmosphere.
The 2025-26 season sees Colchester continuing their League Two campaign, with the club also hosting Ipswich Town’s Women’s and Under-21 sides at the stadium as part of a two-year ground-share agreement. Extensive summer improvements to the stadium were also completed ahead of this season, making this a good time to visit.
📊 STADIUM SPECIFICATIONS – 2025-26
| Capacity | 10,105 (all seated) |
| Opened | August 2008 |
| Address | United Way, Colchester, Essex, CO4 5UP |
| Away Section | North Stand (standard). East Stand also available for large followings |
| Away Allocation | Typically ~1,000 (North Stand). Up to ~2,000 with East Stand opened |
| Record Attendance | 10,064 vs Norwich City, 2010 |
| Nickname | The U’s |
| Division | Sky Bet League Two (2025-26) |
| ⚠️ Cashless Venue | Card and contactless only — no cash accepted anywhere in the stadium |
| Club Website | cu-fc.com |
| Ticket Office | 01206 755 100 | colutickets.com |
🚗 GETTING TO THE JOBSERVE COMMUNITY STADIUM
The JobServe Community Stadium sits in the Myland area of north Colchester, right next to junction 28 of the A12 — making it extremely convenient for those driving from London, Ipswich, or Norwich. The ground is about two miles from Colchester’s main railway station (Colchester, also known as Colchester North), with a Park & Ride service bridging the gap.
Driving is a popular option given the ground’s proximity to the A12, and there is an on-site car park with nearly 700 spaces that must be pre-booked online. Street parking in the immediate vicinity is almost impossible thanks to an active Parking Exclusion Zone enforced on matchdays by the club and Essex Police.
Colchester is well served by trains from London Liverpool Street (approx. 1 hour direct), making this a very viable away day for fans travelling from the capital. The Park & Ride option from the town centre is the recommended route for rail travellers, with buses connecting the station area to within 10 minutes’ walk of the ground.
🗺️ STADIUM LOCATION MAP
JobServe Community Stadium Address: United Way, Colchester, Essex, CO4 5UP
🚂 BY TRAIN – Easy from London and East Anglia
Why Trains Work: Colchester is on the main Greater Anglia line from London Liverpool Street, with fast trains taking around an hour. From the station, a Park & Ride bus or the Number 2 bus gets you close to the ground. It’s a solid 45-minute walk if you prefer to stretch your legs and explore the town en route.
Journey Times to Colchester Station:
🔴 Manchester Piccadilly: approx. 3 hrs (change at London Liverpool Street)
🟠 Birmingham New Street: approx. 2 hrs 30 mins (change at London Liverpool Street)
🟡 Cambridge: approx. 1 hr 10 mins (direct)
🟢 London Liverpool Street: approx. 55 mins–1 hr (direct Greater Anglia)
🔵 Ipswich: approx. 20 mins (direct)
🟣 Norwich: approx. 1 hr 20 mins (direct)
Getting from Colchester Station to the JobServe Community Stadium
🚌 Park & Ride Bus (10 mins to ground)
The Park & Ride bus is the most convenient option from the station area. It takes you to the Park & Ride car park just across the A12 from the ground — from there it’s a 5–10 minute walk via the Boxted Road bridge. Check timetables before travelling at cu-fc.com.
🚌 Number 2 Bus / Number 65 Bus (approx. 15 mins, ~£2)
The Number 2 bus from Colchester station runs to the top of Nayland Road — alight near the Dog & Pheasant pub and continue on foot via Boxted Road to the stadium. The Number 65 bus from Head Street in the town centre also drops off on Mill Lane, a 10-minute walk from the ground. Check firstbus.co.uk for timetables.
🚕 Taxi (10–15 mins, approx. £8–12)
Taxis are readily available from outside Colchester station. A cab direct to the ground takes around 10–15 minutes. Particularly good value if sharing with a group — budget around £8–12 each way.
🚶 Walking (45 mins)
From the station, follow Mile End Road north, then Nayland Road and Boxted Road to reach the stadium. It’s a flat 45-minute walk that takes you past the Dog & Pheasant pub for a pre-match stop. A pleasant option if you have time to spare and want to explore.
💡 Top Tip: Consider spending time in Colchester town centre before the match — Colchester Castle and the High Street are both walkable from the station. Take the bus to the ground afterwards. It turns a challenging commute into a proper day out.
🚆 Train Times & Tickets: nationalrail.co.uk | thetrainline.com
🚆 Colchester United Official Site: cu-fc.com
🚗 BY CAR – Pre-Book Parking, Avoid the Exclusion Zone
The JobServe Community Stadium is seconds from junction 28 of the A12 — one of the easiest grounds in the country to reach by car. However, there is a strict Parking Exclusion Zone around the stadium on matchdays, enforced by the club and Essex Police. Do not attempt to park on local streets; the exclusion zone covers both clearways and residential areas. Pre-book your parking before you travel.
Driving Directions:
- From the South (A12 Ipswich-bound carriageway): Exit at junction 28. Turn right at the first roundabout, cross the bridge, go straight over the second roundabout, then turn right into United Way. The stadium is immediately ahead.
- From the North (A12 London-bound carriageway): Exit at junction 28. Turn left at the first roundabout, then turn right into United Way at the second roundabout.
- Sat Nav: Use postcode CO4 5UP. If unrecognised, try CO4 5JS (nearby Rapid Electronics factory).
Parking Options:
- Stadium Car Park (pre-book): Nearly 700 spaces on site at £7.50 per car. Must be booked in advance via colutickets.com. Add your registration number at the time of booking — ANPR barrier controls access. Book early as spaces sell out for popular fixtures.
- Park & Ride Car Park (pre-book): Located just across the A12 (CO4 5YX), accessible via MiPermit (location code 737944). A 5–10 minute walk to the ground via the Boxted Road bridge. Note: access between United Way and Boxted Road is not possible by car.
- Colchester Town Centre Car Parks: If arriving early to explore, park in a town centre car park and take the Number 65 bus from Head Street to the ground. Allows you to have a proper pre-match drink and explore the city’s historic attractions.
- No street parking: The Parking Exclusion Zone is strictly enforced. Clearway restrictions apply even to disabled Blue Badge holders in designated zones. Check signage very carefully.
💡 Top Tip: Pre-book stadium parking as early as possible, as it sells out. Post-match, the car park exit can be slow — patient drivers should hang back inside the ground and wait for congestion to clear, rather than rushing out immediately after the final whistle.
🍺 PUBS & DRINKS NEAR THE JOBSERVE COMMUNITY STADIUM
ℹ️ IMPORTANT ADVICE: There are very few pubs within easy walking distance of the JobServe Community Stadium. The best approach is to pre-match in Colchester town centre and travel to the ground by bus or taxi — exactly as most Colchester fans themselves do. There are, however, a couple of options near the ground and a dedicated away bar inside the stadium.
🍺 Near the Ground
🍺 The Dog & Pheasant (Nayland Road, CO4 5EG)
The closest pub to the JobServe Community Stadium at around three-quarters of a mile away — approximately a 10-minute walk. A Hungry Horse pub-restaurant with a spacious beer garden and kids’ play area. Serves food all day and is generally welcoming to away fans. A reliable option if you arrive by bus and want a drink before walking to the ground.
🍺 The Bricklayers Arms (27 Bergholt Road, CO4 5AA)
Located directly opposite Colchester North station, making it the ideal stop for rail travellers. A family-run pub with real ales and a warm, traditional atmosphere. CAMRA-recommended and a good base before catching the bus to the ground. Approximately 2 miles from the stadium.
🍺 Colchester Town Centre (Recommended for Pre-Match)
🍺 The Playhouse (4 St John’s Street, CO2 7AA) — Wetherspoons
A spectacular Wetherspoons conversion of a 1929 theatre, retaining the original balcony, dress circle and stage. Cardboard cut-outs of celebrities gaze down from the upper levels. Enormous island bar with up to seven real ales, reliable food and legendary value for money. One of the finest Wetherspoons in the country and a genuine Colchester institution. In the CAMRA Good Beer Guide 2026.
🍺 The Fox and Fiddler (High Street, CO1 1TW)
A Grade II listed, 15th-century timber-framed pub with original Tudor beamwork on the High Street. One of Colchester’s most characterful traditional pubs, with a good range of beers including real ales, a hidden beer garden called “The Lady Garden”, and a relaxed atmosphere. Popular with both locals and visiting fans.
🍺 Queen Street Brew House / Three Wise Monkeys (Queen Street / High Street)
For craft beer fans, both the Queen Street Brew House and Three Wise Monkeys offer an excellent independent craft beer and real ale selection in the town centre. Three Wise Monkeys is a particular favourite, with cocktails, guest ales and a lively atmosphere in a central location.
🍺 Away Bar at the Ground: There is a dedicated bar for away supporters inside the concourse at the North Stand. Alcohol is served to away fans — a welcome touch. Cards and contactless only; no cash.
🍔 FOOD NEAR THE JOBSERVE COMMUNITY STADIUM
Inside the Ground
Away end concourse kiosks serve the full matchday range: burgers, hot dogs, pies, sausage rolls, chips, and a wide variety of drinks, including soft drinks. Food quality is consistent for a modern lower-league ground. Remember: cashless only. There is also a Fanzone behind the South Stand open to home and away fans from around 12:15 pm on matchdays.
Near the Ground
McDonald’s (opposite side of the A12 dual carriageway)
There is a McDonald’s on the opposite side of the A12 from the stadium, accessible from the Park & Ride area. Handy if arriving by car or bus and looking for a quick pre-match option.
Greggs, Wendy’s and Slim Chickens (outside the stadium)
There are fast-food and bakery options just outside the stadium complex, including Greggs. Worth knowing about if you arrive just before kick-off and want something quick before going through the turnstiles.
Myland Fisheries (near Nayland Road)
A popular local chip shop near the Dog & Pheasant area on Nayland Road. Well-regarded by regular away visitors for its pre-match fish and chips — a proper football tradition.
Colchester Town Centre
If pre-matching in town, Colchester has an excellent range of independent restaurants, cafés and takeaways on the High Street and around Castle Park. Particularly strong for pizza, curry, and independent cafés. The town centre is the best food option for a proper pre-match meal.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY NEAR THE JOBSERVE COMMUNITY STADIUM
Budget
Travelodge Colchester Northern Gateway
A budget option close to the stadium and the A12, from around £50–70 per night. Functional and convenient if you’re arriving by car and want to stay close to the ground.
Premier Inn Colchester (A12)
About 1.5 miles from the stadium, from around £55–75 per night. A reliable budget choice with a restaurant and bar on site. Good motorway access.
Mid-Range
Dragonfly Hotel Colchester
A stylish independent hotel about 1.7 miles from the stadium, with Egyptian cotton sheets, rain showers and a spa. From around £90–120 per night. A step up in quality from the budget chains.
The Rose and Crown Hotel (East Gates, Colchester)
A charming historic hotel in the town centre, well-placed for exploring Colchester’s heritage. From around £90–130 per night. Good for a full weekend stay with easy access to attractions and pubs.
Premium
Best Western Stoke by Nayland Hotel (Stoke by Nayland, CO6)
For a luxurious stay in the Constable Country countryside just outside Colchester. A four-star hotel with spa, golf, and stunning views. From around £140–200 per night. Perfect if making a full weekend of it.
🏛️ THINGS TO DO IN COLCHESTER
Colchester has a remarkable story to tell. Britain’s oldest recorded town, and the country’s newest city, having regained city status in 2022, it was the first Roman capital of Britain. History, culture, and some genuinely brilliant attractions make this well worth exploring beyond the football.
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🏰 Colchester Castle Museum — colchester.cimuseums.org.uk
The largest Norman keep in Europe was built on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius. Housing an internationally important collection covering 2,500 years of history, including the magnificent Fenwick Hoard of Roman gold and silver jewellery. Expert-guided tours take you into the Roman vaults and up to the castle roof for stunning views. Adults from £11.25; open daily 10 am–5 pm.
🏛️ Colchester’s Roman Walls — FREE
The oldest and longest surviving Roman town walls in Britain encircle much of the historic city centre. “Walking the walls” is one of Colchester’s great free experiences — two millennia of history visible at every turn, with the Balkerne Gate (the finest surviving Roman gateway in Britain) a particular highlight. A brilliant self-guided walking tour is available.
🌿 Castle Park — FREE
A beautiful Victorian park of over 11 hectares surrounding the castle, with views across the River Colne and plenty of green space for a pre-match stroll. Home to annual events including the Colchester Food and Drink Festival and Oktoberfest. Hollytrees Museum (FREE) is also in the park grounds — a charming Georgian townhouse with three centuries of social history.
🎨 Firstsite Gallery — firstsite.uk
A striking crescent-shaped contemporary arts centre in the heart of the city — a genuine architectural statement. Houses an international-quality programme of exhibitions, film and community arts alongside a sculpture park. Free to enter and walk through; ticketed for special exhibitions. One of the most interesting arts venues in East Anglia.
🐾 Colchester Zoo — colchester-zoo.com
One of the UK’s top-rated zoos, set in 60 acres of beautiful parkland with over 150 species. Highlights include the underwater sea lion tunnel, the African savannah with giraffes and rhinos, and the daily animal feeding sessions. Adults from around £22 (book online for discounts). A fantastic family option about 3 miles from the stadium.
🎨 Dedham Vale & Constable Country
Just north of Colchester, the Dedham Vale National Landscape is the countryside that inspired John Constable’s most famous paintings. A stunning Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (now reclassified as a National Landscape) with idyllic villages, riverside walks, and the picturesque village of Dedham itself. A perfect addition to a full weekend away.
⚽ MATCHDAY EXPERIENCE
💳 Cashless Venue: Cards, contactless, Apple Pay and Google Pay are the only payment methods — this includes the away bar, food kiosks and ticket machines. No cash at all.
🍺 Alcohol in the Away End: Away fans can buy alcohol in the North Stand concourse — a welcome feature and worth noting when planning your pre-match strategy.
🏟️ Steep Stands: The compact bowl and steep rake keep fans close to the pitch, generating a surprisingly good atmosphere despite the modest capacity. Sightlines are excellent throughout.
📰 Matchday Programme: Included in your ticket price for league matches — pick up your copy of We Are United from the stands in the concourse before heading to your seat.
🚗 Post-Match Parking: Expect slow exit from the stadium car park after matches — a known issue with the one-lane entry/exit system. Consider waiting inside for 20–30 minutes to let the initial rush clear.
💭 FINAL THOUGHTS
The JobServe Community Stadium is a functional, modern ground that does what it says on the tin — clean, compact, and well-run. It may lack the raw character of an older ground, but the steep stands and covered concourses ensure a lively atmosphere. The dedicated away bar with alcohol service is a genuine plus, and the facilities are genuinely among the better ones at the League Two level.
The real story here is Colchester itself — a city with over 2,000 years of history that rewards proper exploration. Colchester Castle alone is worth the journey, and the Roman walls, Firstsite gallery, and Constable Country nearby make this an excellent destination for a full day or weekend away. The town centre pubs, particularly The Playhouse Wetherspoons and The Fox and Fiddler, are genuinely worth your time.
Pre-book your parking before you travel, arrive in the town centre early for a proper explore and a pint, then take the bus out to the ground. Have your card ready — everything at the stadium is cashless. And do try The Playhouse Wetherspoons if you get the chance — it really is something special.
🏰 Britain’s oldest town — a proper away day destination 🛡️
📞 USEFUL CONTACTS
📻️ Colchester United FC: 01206 755 100 | cu-fc.com
🎫 Ticket Office: 01206 755 100 | colutickets.com
🚂 National Rail: 03457 48 49 50 | nationalrail.co.uk
🚌 First Bus Colchester: firstbus.co.uk/essex
ℹ️ Visit Colchester: visitcolchester.com
🏰 Colchester Castle Museum: 01206 282 937 | colchester.cimuseums.org.uk
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⚽ Part of the Football Nonsense League Two Away Days Collection
For more away day guides across all four divisions, visit footballnonsense.co.uk
© 2026 Football Nonsense. All rights reserved. Information researched and verified for the 2025-26 season — always check cu-fc.com for the latest matchday details before travelling. Note: The JobServe Community Stadium is a cashless venue; parking must be pre-booked via colutickets.com.
John Herman is a Leeds-based, would-be football writer and founder of Football Nonsense. Blending fan passion with sharp opinion, he tackles the game’s biggest debates—from the terraces to the boardroom—with honesty, humour, and heart.