Christchurch

An ever-popular coastal town with ancient priory and castle

Christchurch - the River Stour

Christchurch, situated at the confluence of the rivers Avon and Stour, grew up beside an extensive natural harbour that encouraged trade with continental Europe long before such things became fashionable. Walks along the riverside promenade are popular today, and so is the Victorian bandstand - used during the summer months by brass and other bands.

Christchurch - distance from Lyndhurst - 14 miles (23 kilometres)

Christchurch - did you know?
Christchurch was the centre of a lucrative 18th and 19th century smuggling trade.

Shopping therapy – oh yes

Christchurch market day - Monday

Pubs and bars - too numerous to mention

Restaurants - certainly

Nightclubs - yes

Cinemas - yes

Christchurch Priory

Theatres - yes

Concerts - yes

Parks and gardens - various around the town

Christchurch Priory
Dominating the Christchurch skyline, Christchurch Priory has been a place of prayer and pilgrimage for over 900 years.

Christchurch Castle
Christchurch Castle dates back to the 11th century. The ruins are open throughout the year. There is no admission charge.

Place Mill
A restored water mill situated on Christchurch Quay, Place Mill dates back 1,000 years and now houses an art gallery. Admittance is free.

Christchurch museums
Red House Museum and Gardens Heritage Museum - for local and social history.
The Museum of Electricity - situated in an Edwardian power station!
Bournemouth Aviation Museum close to Bournemouth Airport, Hurn, Christchurch.

Children's activities - play parks, water parks and paddling pools - yes

Open spaces - for football, cricket, rounders and relaxing - yes

Leisure Centre - Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre

Walks - along the riversides and around wildlife-rich Stanpit Marsh - yes

(Image - lunch by The Stour at Christchurch (Mike Smith) / CC BY-SA 2.0 )