Things To Do

Things to do in Christchurch

In between two rivers on the South Coast of England sits the idyllic harbourside town of Christchurch, on the edge of Dorset and Hampshire. With miles of award-winning sandy beaches and the beautiful New Forest just on the doorstep there is huge variety of things to do during your stay, both within the town and further afield at the neighbouring coastal towns of Bournemouth and Poole. Here are some of the best things you can do in Christchurch…

Attractions

Christchurch is steeped in history; it’s little wonder that its castles, museums and churches draw visitors from far and wide. Being so close to the New Forest gives everyone great access to attractions such as Beaulieu National Motor Museum and the New Forest Wildlife Park– something for everyone to enjoy.

Activities

From hiking in the forest to ambling along the beach, you’ll find your own pace here in Christchurch. If you’re after clifftop views of the dramatic coastline, visit the geologically-important Hengistbury Head for the ideal photo opportunity. Later you can wind down with a pamper in one of our many spas – the choice is up to you.

Sport & Leisure

With the sea on one side, forest on the other and two rivers either side there is no shortage of outdoor activities available to help get the blood pumping. We have golf courses, leisure centres, tennis courts, bowling greens and a variety of popular beach sports – all ages catered for on the Coast with the Most.

Watersports

You needn’t go far to enjoy some rippling waves at this harbourside town. Hire a self-drive motor boat and explore the safe waters (make sure to wave at the resident swans). Try your hand at sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, paddle-boarding and more with our many coastal operators. With sheltered harbour waters, meandering rivers and instructors on standby, you’ll be sure to find a watersport to suit you.

Shopping

We have a bustling high street packed with a range of independent boutiques, popular brands and a weekly market. Coffee shops and restaurants to suit all budgets are dotted along the way leading to a cobbled-close that opens into the grounds of the Priory. The annual Food Festival, located along the high street to the beautiful quayside every May, draws in thousands every year – the perfect opportunity to pick up locally-sourced award-winning produce.

Entertainment

Scattered among the town and all within walking distance of the centre are a range of wine bars, traditional pubs offering live music, comedy clubs and the Regent Centre: an Art Deco cinema and theatre providing entertainment to suit all ages. And with Bournemouth’s renowned nightlife just a short taxi ride away you can continue having fun long after the sun has set.

Tours & Sightseeing

With its postcard-like harbour and quayside there are a number of options of how you can take in the finest views this town has to offer. A range of boat tours are available from official operators for that quintessential ride along the river. Alternatively, why not take yourself on your own tour? Grab a paddleboard or a kayak and a life jacket and explore the route less travelled, embrace life on the water, and feel the stresses of life ebb away.

Looking for accommodation in Christchurch

Here you’ll find luxury hotel groups, national chains, beautiful boutique hotels, family-run guest houses, budget-friendly hotels and a great selection of self-catering options including caravan and camping parks along this picturesque coastline.