Parks & Gardens

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Looking for peaceful parkland walks, away from the hustle and bustle of the main town? Christchurch has plenty to offer when it comes to parkland and gardens. The remnants of Christchurch Castle are the perfect place to begin any exploration off the beaten track, with the meandering walk through the Priory gardens to the quay offering tranquillity and almost unperturbed peace.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council has been awarded 23 Green Flags which recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces.  In addition Hengistbury Head have also achieved the much-coveted Green Heritage Site Accreditation for its management of the historic features.  More information can be found in the news release.

Stanpit Marsh and Steamer Point likewise are nature reserves that are perfect for a solitary stroll or a family adventure, enabling you to lose yourself along walks that offer a glimmer into the coastline’s Jurassic heritage. 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 of 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.