Historic Christchurch
nestles between the River Avon and Stour at their confluence and enjoys
unparalleled harbour views, walks and wildlife.
Close to
lively Bournemouth
and the tranquillity of the New Forest and rural Dorset, Christchurch's unique
combination of heritage, coastline, harbour and rivers provides all the
ingredients to make your visit extra special.
Christchurch
dates from Saxon times, and lies in the shadow of the magnificent 11th century
Priory Church and still retains its Saxon street layout.
Originally
known as Twynham "the place betwixt the waters", Christchurch takes
its name from the Priory Church, which was originally known as Christ's Church.
The town
centre dates from Saxon times and lies adjacent to the majestic 11th century
Priory church.
The
beautiful historic Priory has a wealth of medieval carving and is reputedly one
of the longest parish churches in England.
It is famous
for its 1094 Norman nave and turret, the Lady Chapel's pendant vault, probably
the first in this country, misericords including one, by tradition, the oldest
in England.
Also the
Miraculous Beam, the ninth centenary commemorative stained-glass window and the
restored 18th century organ.
Red House
Museum and art Gallery, was originally a workhouse. This fascinating museum
contains countless objects relating to local history, geology, natural history
and archaeology as well as an impressive costume gallery.
Place Mill,
mentioned in the Doomsday Book, was part of the conventual buildings of the
Priory. Although the mill has been carefully restored, it no longer grinds
flour, but the working machinery provides a fascinating backdrop to a
collection of milling artefacts, arts and crafts.
The
fascinating older part of the town with its quaint houses, excellent
restaurants and specialist shops, is just a few minutes walk from the bustling
High Street, with its Saxon Square shopping precinct.
On Mondays
in the town centre there is a large and popular market.
Christchurch
has six, safe, sandy beaches stretching across the sweep of Christchurch Bay
from Mudeford Sandbank to Highcliffe.
They all
offer amazing views across Christchurch Bay from the Isle of Wight and the
Needles in the east to Hengistbury Head in the west.
The Regent
Centre is the cinema, theatre and concert hall serving Christchurch and the
surrounding area. It was built in 1931 and retains all the Art Deco charm of
the era.
The foyer is
used by local artists, for exhibitions of their work.
The Regent
Centre screens new release films, as well as hosting concerts, plays, pop
groups and pantomime to suit all tastes.
Christchurch is
famous for its exciting places to eat out, and has probably the widest
selection of restaurants in the area offering international cuisine.
Christchurch
has a wide range of indoor and outdoor sports. As well as the Two Riversmeet
Leisure centre, there is excellent angling, watersports, bowls, tennis, golf,
riding, skiing and ski bobbing.
Christchurch
is ideal for walkers with a variety of walks by the sea, the rivers, through
heathland and woodland or across Stanpit Marsh - the birdwatcher's heaven.
