It’s not difficult to see why Christchurch is a favourite with visitors from far and wide. Set between two picturesque rivers with a stunning natural harbour, this is an ideal destination for that much-needed break away. From the historic Priory church and the castle ruins to the outdoor splash park nestled on the quay, there is something for everyone at this beautiful part of the world. Small cobbled streets add to the charm of the attractive and bustling town centre with its array of independent boutiques, weekly market featuring locally-sourced produce and high street stores. The nearby village of Mudeford, with its idyllic quay and coveted beach, is always popular for crab-fishing and boat trips. A little further on Highcliffe and its grand castle provide stunning views across the bay.
Christchurch was originally known as Tweoxneam (Twynham) from Old English meaning between two rivers: the town sits between the Avon and the Stour rivers and research indicates it began as an early Saxon settlement. During the Middle Ages Christchurch saw a castle built, the introduction of a weekly market and an annual fair. Its geographical advantages also made it a viable fishing port. By the 18th century, fishing was still important to the town’s economy and, with the slow introduction of a gasworks, piped water supply and sewers, the population increased.
Towns
The towns surrounding Christchurch offer a delightful mix of coastal charm, countryside tranquillity, and historic character. To the west, Bournemouth and Poole provide vibrant seaside experiences with sandy beaches, bustling piers, and lively town centres. Heading inland and east into Dorset, towns like Wimborne Minster, Dorchester, and Wareham showcase rich heritage, market squares, and scenic riverside walks. Smaller towns such as Shaftesbury and Sherborne offer elevated views and historic architecture nestled in rolling countryside.
The towns of Lymington, Lyndhurst, and Ringwood each offer a distinct flavour of New Forest life. Lymington charms with its Georgian architecture, bustling marina, and coastal walks. Lyndhurst, known as the gateway to the forest, is full of character with independent shops and the New Forest Heritage Centre. Ringwood blends market town tradition with riverside tranquillity, making it a peaceful spot for browsing, dining, and exploring nearby countryside.
Villages
The villages of Christchurch each offer their own unique charm, from the clifftop elegance of Highcliffe, home to the historic Highcliffe Castle, to the coastal character of Mudeford, with its working quay, beach huts, and watersports. Stanpit provides a peaceful retreat with its marshland nature reserve, ideal for birdwatching and gentle walks, while Friars Cliff is perfect for relaxed seaside strolls and café stops along the promenade. Together, these villages complement the town centre with a blend of heritage, nature, and coastal beauty, making Christchurch a diverse and welcoming destination for visitors.
Beyond Christchurch, the villages of the New Forest and Dorset are brimming with charm and character, offering a peaceful retreat into the English countryside. In the New Forest, places like Brockenhurst, Burley, and Beaulieu feature thatched cottages, cosy pubs, and forest trails where ponies roam freely. Dorset’s villages, such as Corfe Castle, Abbotsbury, and Milton Abbas, blend rolling hills with historic landmarks, artisan shops, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Together, they offer a perfect mix of heritage, nature, and rural tranquillity.
Coast
The coastal areas of Christchurch, stretching into Dorset, offer a rich tapestry of natural beauty and seaside charm. Starting from Christchurch itself, the coastline features a mix of sandy and shingle beaches such as Avon Beach and Mudeford Sandbank, both popular with families and water sports enthusiasts. Hengistbury Head, a prominent headland, provides dramatic views and a nature reserve teeming with wildlife.
Moving Eastward, the coast transitions into the broader Dorset shoreline, renowned for its 100 miles of varied beaches, from the golden sands of Bournemouth to the fossil-rich cliffs of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Seaside towns like Swanage, Lyme Regis, and West Bay each bring their own character, from steam railways and Georgian architecture to vibrant harbours and fossil hunting opportunities. This stretch of coast is ideal for walkers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a blend of relaxation and exploration.
Countryside
Christchurch sits at the centre of a rich countryside with the New Forest National Park to the north east and Dorset to the west. The New Forest is a vast expanse of ancient woodland, open heath, and peaceful glades, where wild ponies roam and nature thrives. Its countryside is perfect for walking, cycling, and horse riding, with shady trails, quiet rivers.
With so much of the countryside Dorset has on offer designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty it’s easy to see why this part of the country is visited time and time again. Stunning countryside trimmed with beautiful beaches, rolling hills, history and heritage make this area something to behold. Wander ancient green lanes and numerous trails to cross lush meadows and take in some stunning vistas.
