Christchurch may be a picturesque quayside town but don’t let its south coast positioning lead you to believe this is little more than a seaside resort. Follow either of the two meandering rivers (or both) and you’ll soon find that the town’s historical high street gives way to green pastures, ancient woodland and much, much more.
Just a short drive/cycle away is the New Forest National Park. Explore the rolling hills and see the native horses, donkeys and cows that graze on the flora. Hidden hamlets deep in the forest will have you wandering for hours discovering every nook and cranny! Take the road towards Ringwood and discover little country villages to reach Moors Valley Country Park and Avon Country Park for great heath walks and adventurous play.
The neighbouring counties of Hampshire and Wiltshire are home to spectacular and lush forests, enchanting cathedral cities, bustling towns and endless quaint villages each with their own variety of attractions and adventures allowing you to make the most of your time in the countryside.
Extensive research shows that having access to the natural environment can increase your health and wellbeing – even if you are simply sitting and admiring the view. Whether you are going for a walk, having a meal out or simply travelling through the county, the landscape in Christchurch and the surrounding areas provide backdrops of outstanding beauty. The variety of breath-taking landscapes and great views you will see around every corner will be the remedy you need for mind, body and soul.
But the landscape in this beautiful part of the world is so much more than a fantastic view - it’s a living, breathing landscape and it probably won’t surprise you that the wildlife and history, as well as the people who live and work here, make it a very special place. Savour a taste of the countryside on a visit to one of the area’s farm shops or regular farmers’ markets, the producers will be only too pleased to talk to you about the provenance of their goods.
With so much to explore one day will never be enough, so book yourself a break and start planning your mini escape to the country!
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