Colchester Castle - Credit: Archant Ernie, the county’s most famous Westie, takes a step back in time to explore the charms of Britain’s oldest town - and the capital before London - Colchester Ernie explores Lower Castle Park - Credit: Archant WHAT TO SEE Start with Colchester Castle Park. The castle is the largest Norman keep in Europe and you can go inside to check it out (£10 per adult), but not with your dog. Oddly, pets are not allowed in the Upper Park surrounding the castle but they can run free in the Lower Park. The two areas are clearly divided by a Roman wall. The lower part of the park also has a boating lake where, in the summer months, you can hire swan pedalos. These start from £4.50 for 15 minutes and you can even take your dog along for the ride.