An old couple enjoying a lovely walk surrounded by nature in the Christchurch countryside

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Outdoor Activities

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Whether it’s cycling along the coast, through the town centre with a stop off for a coffee or refreshments along the way, Christchurch has over 24 miles of cycle networks and half of it is traffic-free which makes it great not only for individuals but families too.

If you don’t have bicycles or are a visitor then getting around Christchurch is not a problem. Beryl Bikes are available throughout the area or you can also use Cyclexperience Bike Hire, adjacent to Brockenhurst Train Station and start your exploration from the New Forest which is just a short train ride away.

If it’s the sights and sounds of the town you want to see there are a myriad of cycle paths to get you around. Sit in the shade of the beautiful Priory, catch your breath or grab a coffee and some lunch in one of the many fantastic cafés and restaurants dotted throughout the area. You can also cycle all the way to Mudeford and reach the coast in a relatively short space of time arriving at Avon Beach; a beautiful spot peppered with pretty beach huts.

The Mude Valley Greenway, not far from Highcliffe, is also a beautiful route that follows part of the National Cycle Network Route 2 taking you from the sea at Mudeford safely into the countryside of the New Forest via Watery Lane, opposite Sainsbury’s superstore. For the more adventurous there is a 17-mile bike ride from Burton Green all the way to Burley, in the heart of the New Forest; a picturesque village with quaint shops, pubs, cafés and restaurants together with places to stay.

In addition to the New Forest the area offers further opportunities for some rural cycling. A little further into the countryside, you can pick up the inland trails and head in the direction of Burton and Sopley - both nestled in the picturesque valley of the River Avon. Highcliffe Castle is also a short journey and a real joy to visit at any time of year.

Walking and Hiking

Whether it’s the rugged coastal path you are looking to walk or a quiet, peaceful meander through Stanpit Marsh Nature Reserve there is plenty to keep you moving around the surrounding area.

Stanpit Marsh

Getting away from the hustle and bustle of the town is almost effortless. With a short walk you can enjoy the splendid views across Stanpit Marsh Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and the beauty that this protected nature reserve has to offer. If you love wildlife the reserve has a fantastic circular walk; it is a haven for birds together with over 300 species of plant, 14 of which are nationally endangered. It is quite a beautiful contrast to the busy town and a real hidden little gem just north of Christchurch Harbour.

Hengistbury Head

This is a breath-taking area to walk around, again forming part of the Christchurch Harbour SSSI, with its outstanding beauty, rugged cliffs, sandy beaches as well places to stop for refreshments. It has fabulous views across to the iconic Needles on the Isle of White and Purbeck Hills to the west. The extensive archaeological evidence at Hengistbury Head make it one of the best known case studies in British archaeology, dating as far back as paleolithic times. It is also a haven for nature and wildlife and is home to the rare Natterjack Toad, 14 species of dragonfly, 260 species of beetle, rare bird species such as Cetti’s Warbler and the fish-eating bird of prey the Osprey. You can walk all the way around Hengistbury Head to the Spit which is peppered with beautiful beach huts that have stunning views across to Christchurch on one side and the Isle of Wight on the other.

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Mighty Claws Adventure Golf

Bournemouth

Swing, cut and slice your club through 18 holes of prehistoric thrills and near life size dinosaurs. A fiercely entertaining day out for everyone from little raptors to ancient fossils.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
79 reviews
Beryl

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

Let's get more people in cities on bikes, and make cities greener. We are launching in Bournemouth at the end of May - watch this space!
AFC Bournemouth

Dean Court, Kings Park Drive, Bournemouth

COVID-19 VISITENGLAND WE’RE GOOD TO GO ACCREDITED BUSINESS
AFC Bournemouth are a professional football club, formed in 1899, currently playing in the Premier League – the top tier of English Football. They are based at Vitality Stadium.
Snowtrax

Hurn, Christchurch

For an action-packed day out that the children won’t stop talking about then Snowtrax is an ideal venue.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
267 reviews
South Coast Karting

Christchurch

The SCK Circuit in Bournemouth has been designed by racers for racers.
The fast and flowing layout makes for an exhilarating experience which will enable you to squeeze all of the performance out of our 200cc Honda Powered Biz Karts.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
51 reviews
Muscliff Park Petanque Club

Bournemouth

Founded in February 2017 on a brand new purpose built terrain, Muscliff Park is the only petanque club in Bournemouth.
Littledown Centre

Bournemouth

The award-winning Littledown Centre boasts some of the finest leisure, swimming, football and gym facilities in the country. Home to the Bournemouth Swimming Academy and the Littledown Juniors Football Club, we have a programme of over 140 fitness…
Dorset Cricket Centre

Christchurch

The Dorset Cricket Board support the development of cricket in Dorset.
Driving Range Bournemouth

Christchurch

The two-tier, heated, 40-bay Premier Driving Range at Playgolf Bournemouth is a spectacular piece of architecture. It enables golfers to practice all shots – from short wedges to booming drives – by providing clear, accurate and attractive targets.…
Solent Meads Golf Club

Bournemouth

Play golf in Bournemouth at Solent Meads Golf Centre. The facility is open to the public all year round and comprises of an 18 hole par 3 golf course, a 9 hole 'fun course', an 11 bay driving range, a practice putting green and cafe - plenty of free…
Parley Golf Centre

Parley Golf Centre offers first class practice facilities and highly professional golf tuition.
Dudmoor Farm Riding School

Christchurch

Situated in the Avon Valley, Dudmoor Farm offers horse-riding lessons for all abilities.
Chapel Gate Sports Facility

Christchurch

65-acre sports facility home to a variety of sports.
Highcliffe Bowling Club

Highcliffe

Highcliffe Bowling Club is a vibrant club with six outdoor rinks and adjoining pavilion. Situated in Nea Meadows close to the village of Highcliffe in the Borough of Christchurch.
Nea Meadows is a Local Nature Reserve covering 5.5 hectares. The…
Seafield Gardens Bowling (Outdoor)

Bournemouth

Seafield Gardens Bowling (Outdoor)
Playgolf Bournemouth

Bournemouth

Playgolf Bournemouth
Highcliffe Castle Golf Club

A very friendly and welcoming club in the beautiful coastal village of Highcliffe.
Hengistbury Head Outdoor Education Centre

Southbourne, Bournemouth

Hengistbury Head is a dramatic headland in Bournemouth situated to the south of Christchurch Harbour. It is an outstanding site for wildlife and archaeology and offers beautiful beaches and views across the New Forest, Isle of Wight and Purbecks…

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Outdoor Activities

Walking and Hiking

Stanpit Marsh

Hengistbury Head

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