• Know Before You Go - Covid-19 information
    • We're Good To Go Dorset
      • Accommodation
      • Days Out
    • Know before you go town centres
    • Repect, Protect and Enjoy Dorset
  • Things To Do
    • Shopping
      • Home Delivery and Online Shopping
      • Keep It Local
      • Markets
      • Antiques & Vintage
      • Arts & Crafts
      • Clothing & Accessories
      • Food & Drink
      • Shopping Areas & Retail Parks
    • Coast and Beaches
      • The Jurassic Coast
      • Dorset Beaches
      • Dog Friendly
      • Beach Safety
      • Fossil Hunting
      • Be Coastwise
      • Harbours
    • Active and Outdoor
      • Walking
      • Cycling & Mountain Biking
      • Watersports
      • Adventure
      • Leisure Centres
      • Golf
      • Group Friendly
    • Families & Children
    • Heritage & Culture
      • Castles & Forts
      • Ancient Sites
      • Museums & Galleries
      • National Trust
      • Landmarks
      • Stately Homes
      • Arts & Crafts
    • Animals & Farm Parks
    • Gardens & Parks
    • Tours & Boat Trips
      • Boat Tours
      • Guided Tours
      • Day Trips
      • Educational Visits
    • Food & Drink Experiences
    • Entertainment & Arts
      • Cinemas
      • Theatres
      • Nightlife
      • Performing Arts
    • Nature and Wildlife
      • Bird Watching
      • Nature Reserves and Country Parks
      • Dorsets Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty
  • Accommodation
    • Hotels
    • Bed & Breakfast
    • Self Catering
    • Self Catering Agencies
    • Dorset Holiday Cottages
    • Caravan & Holiday Parks
    • Campsites
    • Glamping
    • Pubs & Inns
    • Eco Friendly
    • Farm Stays
    • Group Friendly
    • Dog Friendly
    • Accessible
    • Gradings & Awards
  • Shopping
    • Home delivery and online shopping
    • Keep it local
    • Markets
    • Antiques and vintage
    • Arts and crafts
    • Clothing and accessories
    • Food and drink
    • Shopping areas and retail parks
  • Food & Drink
    • Takeaways
    • Restaurants
    • Pubs & Bars
    • Cafes & Coffee Shops
    • Afternoon Tea
    • Farmers' Markets
    • Local Produce
    • Celebrity Chefs
    • Food Events
    • Food & Drink Experiences
  • Ideas & Inspiration
    • Special Offers
    • Visit Dorset Blog
    • Top 10 Ideas
      • Top 10 Free Days Out
      • Top 10 Days Out With Kids
      • Top 10 Dorset Views
      • Top 10 Dorset Walks
      • Top 10 Rainy Day Ideas
      • Top 10 Sunny Day Ideas
    • Dog Friendly
      • Dog Friendly Accommodation
      • Dog Friendly Attractions
      • Dog Friendly Eating Out
      • Dog Friendly Beaches
      • Walking in Dorset
    • Eco-friendly
      • Accommodation
      • Car Free Breaks
      • Top 10 car free days out
      • Travelling around Dorset
      • Charging your electric car
      • Local produce
      • Shop local
    • Short Break Ideas
      • Planning for Easter
      • Foodie Dorset
      • Romantic Dorset
      • Car Free Dorset
      • Health and Wellbeing Breaks
      • Luxury Dorset
      • Walking Breaks
    • Film & TV
      • Ammonite
      • Broadchurch
      • Dunkirk
      • Far From The Madding Crowd
      • On Chesil Beach
    • History & Heritage
      • Museums
      • Literary Dorset
      • Ancient Sites
      • Jurassic Coast
      • Fossil Hunting
    • Dorset Weddings
      • Places To Propose
      • Wedding Venues
      • Wedding Services
      • Honeymoons
      • Stag and Hen
  • Explore
    • Respect, Protect, Enjoy
    • Jurassic Coast
      • Accommodation
      • Things To Do
      • Fossil Hunting
    • Areas To Visit
      • Beaminster
      • Blandford Forum
      • Bournemouth
      • Bridport & West Bay
      • Christchurch
      • Dorchester
      • Lyme Regis
      • Poole
      • Portland
      • Purbeck
      • Shaftesbury & Gillingham
      • Sherborne
      • Sturminster Newton
      • Swanage
      • Wareham
      • Weymouth
      • Wimborne Minster
    • Villages
      • Abbotsbury
      • Cerne Abbas
      • Charmouth
      • Corfe Castle
      • Cranborne
      • East & West Lulworth
      • Milton Abbas
    • Coast and Beaches
      • Be CoastWise
      • Beach Safety
      • Dorset Beaches
      • Dog Friendly Beaches
      • Jurassic Coast
      • Fossil Hunting
      • Harbours
    • Countryside
      • Nature and Wildlife
      • Bird Watching
      • Nature Reserves and Country Parks
      • Nature Events
    • Areas Of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)
  • What's On
    • Virtual events
    • Food & Drink Events
    • Art Events
    • Music Events
    • Festivals
    • Sporting Events
    • Nature Events
    • Submit Event
  • Visitor Information
    • Brochures and Guides
    • Maps
    • Tourist Information Centres
      • Tourist Information Points
    • Travel Information
      • Getting Here
      • Getting Around
      • Parking
    • Group Travel
      • Group Friendly Accommodation
      • Group Friendly Days Out
      • Group Friendly Eating Out
      • Educational Visits
      • Stag and Hen Parties
    • Litter Free Dorset
    • Accessibility
    • Social Media
    • Contact Us

Special Offers

Sign up to our E-newsletter

Order or Download a Brochure

Visit Dorset Blog

Submit Event

Covid-19 information 

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation in Dorset

  • Things To Do

    Things To Do in Dorset

  • Food & Drink

    Places To Eat & Drink in Dorset

  • Explore

    Explore & Discover Dorset

Site Search Icon Site Search Icon

Welcome to the Itinerary Planner. Use this tool to build your own journey or choose from an exciting range of specially selected tours.

To build your own Itinerary, click Add to Excursion to add an item to your Itinerary basket.

List All My Saved Itineraries

  • Change Language
  • Holidays and Tourist information - Official Tourism Board - Visit Dorset.
  • Print Logo
  1. Christchurch Harbour and Mudeford Quay
    Christchurch Harbour and Mudeford Quay
  2. The impressive Priory at Christchurch
    The impressive Priory at Christchurch
  3. Views from Friars Cliff Beach towards Mudeford Quay
    Views from Friars Cliff Beach towards Mudeford Quay

You are here: Explore > Areas To Visit > Christchurch

Visit Christchurch

  • Accommodation

  • Things To Do

  • What's On

  • Food & Drink

Type:
Area:
Keyword:
Check In:
Add room / Unit

Type:
Area:
Keyword:

Type:
Area:
Keyword:
Dates

Type:
Area:
Keyword:

Search Accommodation

Type:
Area:
Keyword:
Check In:
Add room / Unit

Search Things to Do

Type:
Area:
Keyword:

Search What's On

Type:
Area:
Keyword:
Dates

Search Food & Drink

Type:
Area:
Keyword:

Highlights

Aerial view of Highcliffe Castle

Highcliffe Castle

Magnificent Grade I Listed 1830s mansion built by Lord Stuart de Rothesay.

Adventure Wonderland Characters, Bournemouth

Adventure Wonderland

Dorset’s number 1 family theme park, great range of family rides and attractions means there’s even…

Riverside Park looking across the water to the sunset

Riverside Park

Riverside Park is located on the banks of the River Stour in the centre of the beautiful historic…

Children with dog in summer garden | Dog friendly attraction | Sundial Garden | Exbury Gardens | New Forest | Visit Dorset

Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway

Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway is currently closed for winter maintenance. We look forward to…

PrevPrev
  • 1Highcliffe Castle
  • 2Adventure Wonderland
  • 3Riverside Park
  • 4Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway
NextNext

Can’t decide between seaside or countryside, historic town or pretty harbour?  Dorset's Christchurch offers the perfect solution with a choice of award-winning beaches, coastal nature reserves and heritage attractions.

Two delightful rivers to boat upon and walk along, two historic Quays to discover and two Castles to explore - it's twice the fun in Christchurch!

The historic Priory Church and Castle ruins help give an olde world charm to the attractive, bustling town centre with its range of independent shops, high street stores and regular markets. And together with a packed events calendar, there is always something to see and do.

Nearby villages include Highcliffe with its Castle and Mudeford with its Quay - very popular for crab fishing and boat trips.

And with Christchurch being sandwiched between the New Forest National Park on one side and the bustling resort of Bournemouth on the other (with the rest of beautiful Dorset beyond), it is perfectly located for a fantastic holiday or short break.

Christchurch's beaches and coastline

The waters of the Solent are glistening in the sun, the skies are blue - so is it a bucket and spade kind of day, a day to fly a kite or a great time to go for a refreshing swim?

With four miles of beautiful coastline, including sweeping views over to the Isle of Wight, and six safe sandy beaches, each with their own character and facilities, you are spoilt for choice.

But why compromise when you can easily pack it all in to a wonderful family day out.

Fun for all

Two picturesque rivers, a stunning natural harbour, outdoor Splashpark and wonderful beaches offer the ideal holiday playground. 

Younger members of the family to entertain? Fear not, there are indoor and outdoor attractions to keep them out of mischief all year long with a number of play and adventure parks for children of all ages.

And there is no bigger playground than the great outdoors. Christchurch’s numerous nature reserves are wildlife havens and with the New Forest National Park on the doorstep, all the family can easily enjoy time together in the fresh air. On Christchurch Quay you will find a Splashpark (which is fantastic for sunny days) and the Quomps where you can enjoy a picnic or play outdoor games. The annual 'Stompin on the Quomps' festival is held here every August.

Nearby Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway is a delight to walk around and explore the extensive grounds, and once you've worked up and appetite, stop by at the tearooms for some refreshments.

Action and Adventure

If relaxing on the beach isn’t your thing, there are plenty of water and land based activities to enjoy. 

Hire a bike for a leisurely ride, play a round of golf, or perhaps try something new or a little different - a thrilling rib ride, kayaking, paddle boarding or perhaps body surfing. 

With a huge selection of activities available, you will have to book another holiday to fit them all in!

The Priory

The Priory is one of the few monastery churches to have survived Henry VIII’s rule and is reputed to be the longest church in England. The current building of Christchurch Priory was built in the 11th century, although the medieval roof still exists and is visible above the newer one. The roof includes the Miraculous Beam which lies above the south aisle and was once the object of pilgrimages; the medieval builders found that a vital beam was too short but when they returned the next morning it was miraculously not only the right length but also in the right position!

There is an impressive alabaster tomb for Margaret Countess of Salisbury; once described by Henry VIII as “the most saintly woman in England”. There is also a memorial to the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley (his wife Mary’s mother lived in nearby Bournemouth and his heart is buried in a grave in Bournemouth).

If you fancy a challenge take a Tower Tour and climb the 176 steps up to enjoy panoramic views of the town and harbour. 

In the grounds of the Priory are a 12th Century castle and Constable’s house which survive as ruins.

The town was a base for smuggling – underneath the town are old tunnels used by smugglers and the salmon weather vane on the Priory was used by smugglers as a sign for when the excise-men were approaching!

Events in Christchurch

Christchurch is renowned for it’s annual Food and Wine Festival, but that is really just the icing on the cake! 

Throughout the year, the town and surrounding area host hundreds of fairs, festivals, fetes, shows and exhibitions - so whenever you visit you will certainly find your stay in Christchurch enjoyably eventful!

Eating Out and Takeaways

Whether it is a simple ice-cream by the sea or an amazing gourmet meal, food is an integral part of your holiday and Christchurch, with its sea-faring history and celebrity chef connections offers a wonderful choice of foods and restaurants.

Afternoon tea by the Quay watching the boats, fish and chips on the beach listening to the sea or a romantic meal by the harbour as the sun sets, eating out in Christchurch is a pleasure for all the senses, not just the tastebuds!

There are many eateries now offering a takeaway service to enjoy on a day out in Dorset or delivered to your door.

Shopping

Christchurch has a thriving High Street leading into the pedestrianised Saxon Square - filled with a mix of national brand shops and small, indepedent retailers. There is also a weekly street market on a Monday.

So whether you are looking for some beachwear, a souvenir of your holiday or some delicious local food and drink, you will find exactly what you want in Christchurch.

And don't forget you can take a break from shopping in one of the many coffee shops, cafes or pubs in the town centre.

And so to sleep…

With all the fresh sea air and an action packed day visiting the beach, castles, museum or shops, you’ll need somewhere comfortable and appealing to relax and talk the day over.

Choose from a wide selection of serviced accommodation, welcoming B&Bs and guesthouses, quality hotels or character cottages, contemporary seaside apartments and holiday and caravan parks with excellent facilities. 

Wherever you lay your head, you are assured of a friendly welcome, so book your holiday or weekend break today.

In This Section

  1. Gundimore Beach near Christchurch in Dorset
    Things to see and do
    Sandy beaches, Adventure Wonderland, nature reserves, Highcliffe Castle, harbours and quays await your visit to Christchurch.
  2. Places To Eat & Drink in Christchurch
    Eating out and takeaways
    Eating Out
  3. Shopping in Christchurch
    Shopping and markets
    Shopping
  4. View of Christchurch Priory from the river
    24 Hours in Christchurch

    Christchurch's spectacular location on the shores of its own natural harbour makes it the perfect place to relex and enjoy stunning views across the four miles of coastline, as well as taking part in a range of water activities.

    22 Mar 2019
  5. Events in Christchurch
    Events and festivals
    Events and Festivals
  6. Hotels & Guest Houses in Christchurch
    B&Bs and Hotels
    Christchurch's hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses offer everything you could want for a short break or holiday.
  7. Self Catering & Holiday Cottages in Christchurch
    Holiday cottages and self catering
    Holiday Cottages and Self Catering
  8. Caravan Parks & Camping Sites in Christchurch
    Camping, caravanning and holiday parks
    Camping, Caravanning and Holidays Parks
Loading..Loading..

Follow Visit Dorset

  • Facebook

    Thumbnail for Facebook

  • Twitter

    Thumbnail for Twitter

  • Youtube

    Thumbnail for Youtube

  • Instagram

    Thumbnail for Instagram

Sign up for our Newsletter

thank you

Download our Guide

thank you

Know Before You Go - Covid-19 information
  • We're Good To Go Dorset,
  • Know before you go town centres,
  • Repect, Protect and Enjoy Dorset,
Things To Do
  • Family Friendly,
  • The Jurassic Coast,
  • Dorset Beaches,
  • Dog Friendly,
  • Beach Safety,
  • Fossil Hunting,
  • Be Coastwise,
  • Harbours,
  • Shopping,
  • Active and Outdoor ,
  • Families & Children,
  • Heritage & Culture,
  • Animals & Farm Parks,
  • Gardens & Parks,
  • Tours & Boat Trips,
  • Food & Drink Experiences,
  • Entertainment & Arts,
  • Nature and Wildlife,
Accommodation
  • Hotels,
  • Bed & Breakfast,
  • Self Catering,
  • Self Catering Agencies,
  • Dorset Holiday Cottages,
  • Caravan & Holiday Parks,
  • Campsites,
  • Glamping,
  • Pubs & Inns,
  • Eco Friendly,
  • Farm Stays,
  • Group Friendly,
  • Dog Friendly,
  • Accessible,
  • Gradings & Awards,
Shopping
  • Home delivery and online shopping,
  • Keep it local,
  • Markets,
  • Antiques and vintage,
  • Arts and crafts,
  • Clothing and accessories,
  • Food and drink,
  • Shopping areas and retail parks,
Food & Drink
  • Restaurants,
  • Pubs & Bars,
  • Cafes & Coffee Shops,
  • Afternoon Tea,
  • Farmers' Markets,
  • Local Produce,
  • Celebrity Chefs,
  • Food Events,
  • Food & Drink Experiences,
Ideas & Inspiration
  • Special Offers,
  • Visit Dorset Blog,
  • Top 10 Ideas,
  • Dog Friendly,
  • Eco-friendly,
  • Short Break Ideas,
  • Film & TV,
  • History & Heritage,
  • Dorset Weddings,
  • Dorset Videos,
Explore
  • Jurassic Coast,
  • Areas To Visit,
  • Villages,
  • Coast and Beaches,
  • Countryside,
  • Areas Of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB),
What's On
  • Festivals,
  • Food & Drink Events,
  • Art Events,
  • Music Events,
  • Nature Events,
  • Sporting Events,
  • Submit Event,
Visitor Information
  • Brochures and Guides,
  • Maps,
  • Tourist Information Centres,
  • Travel Information,
  • Group Travel,
  • Litter Free Dorset,
  • Accessibility,
  • Social Media,
  • Contact Us,
Home
Industry
  • About Us,
  • Our Work,
  • Working With Us,
  • Media Room,
  • Business Resources,
  • Research,
  • News,
  • Print Page
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Statement
  • Contact Us
  • Site Map
  • Terms and Conditions

Copyright 2021 Visit Dorset. All Rights Reserved.

Made By Simpleview Logo

Ratings & Reviews

Powered By

tripadvisor

Special Offers

Sign up to our E-newsletter

Order or Download a Brochure

Visit Dorset Blog

Special Offers

Sign up to our E-newsletter

Order or Download a Brochure

Visit Dorset Blog

Special Offers

Sign up to our E-newsletter

Order or Download a Brochure

Visit Dorset Blog

Special Offers

Sign up to our E-newsletter

Order or Download a Brochure

Visit Dorset Blog

Special Offers

Sign up to our E-newsletter

Order or Download a Brochure

Visit Dorset Blog

Special Offers

Sign up to our E-newsletter

Order or Download a Brochure

Visit Dorset Blog

Special Offers

Sign up to our E-newsletter

Order or Download a Brochure

Visit Dorset Blog