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 crabbing 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.
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 need entertaining? 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 cup of tea, 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, a day trip just isn't long enough!
The Priory Church
The Priory is one of the few monastery churches to have survived King 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 correct position!
Inside the church there is an impressive alabaster tomb for Margaret Countess of Salisbury; once described by King Henry VIII as “the most saintly woman in England”. There is also a memorial to the famous poet Percy Bysshe Shelley - his wife was novelist Mary Shelley (author of Frankenstein) 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 from the very top of the church.
In the grounds of the Priory are a 12th Century castle and Constable’s house which survive as ruins and are free to visit.
The town of Christchurch used to be 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 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!
Shopping
Christchurch has a thriving High Street leading into the pedestrianised Saxon Square - filled with a mix of national brand shops and small, independent 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 stay overnight.
Choose from a selection of welcoming B&Bs and guesthouses, apartments and cottages, as well as caravan and campsites.
Wherever you lay your head, you are assured of a friendly welcome, so book your holiday or weekend break today.
