Looking for peaceful parkland, away from the hustle and bustle of the main town? Christchurch has plenty to offer when it comes to parkland and gardens.
Nestled in the centre of Christchurch, Druitt Gardens offers a peaceful escape with winding woodland paths, open grassy spaces, and a rich sense of history. This charming green space is perfect for a quiet stroll, a picnic, or simply enjoying nature among mature trees and seasonal wildlife. Located within the Town Centre Conservation Area, the gardens are also home to Druitt Hall, a community venue hosting local events and activities.
Christchurch Quay is a lively and picturesque parkland set along the River Stour, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, family fun, and heritage. Visitors can enjoy open green spaces like The Quomps, home to a splash park and playground, or unwind in the quieter Town Quay area with riverside views and picnic spots. The historic Place Mill and bandstand add cultural charm, while seasonal events like Stompin’ on the Quomps and the Christchurch Carnival bring the area to life.
Other places to relax or enjoy the beauty in and around Christchurch include Stanpit Marsh and Steamer Point. Stanpit Marsh stretches across 65 hectares has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest since 1986 and is home to over 300 plant species. Steamer Point meanwhile offers a clifftop location with stunning panoramic views, and on a clear day the entire coastline towards Poole in one direction, and the Isle of Wight in the other, is virtually unobstructed.
Chewton Bunny (the equivalent to the Dorset Chine or Glen in Scotland) is rich in woodland wildlife and is a Site of Nature Conservation Interest.
Mude Valley Nature Reserve is made up of Mudeford and Peregrine Woods and a variety of natural habitats including woodland, grassland and wetlands make up another Site of Nature Conservation Interest. Nea Meadows is a local nature reserve close to the village of Highcliffe and is a wildlife-rich former parkland site with its own lake. Purewell Nature Reserve sits on an impressive 14 hectares with four of those hectares open to the public, the other ten hectares are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
