Page last updated 31st December 2020
In line with the latest Government announcement following the nationwide lockdown, the town will provide a festive backdrop for those venturing into the town centre for some Christmas shopping.
Christchurch High Street has been adorned with festive illuminations and a large tree to bring a Christmas scene to the main shopping precinct for local residents.
This quaint cobble-stoned town becomes ethereal as the night draws in: twinkling lights against the backdrop of rugged stone arches, black wooden beams and roaring hearths.
The high street of boutique independent shops and snug, welcoming cafes is lined with stunning lights leading you deeper into the heart of the town.
Coastal villages across the conurbation have been lit up in readiness for the festivities. Highcliffe high street has been adorned with miniature dressed trees and dazzling lights.
Cllr Philip Broadhead, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Economy and Strategic Planning and Deputy Leader of the Council, said: “It is with great pleasure that we can now move forward and offer this Christmas experience for local residents to be able to rediscover their local high streets safely.
None of these offerings would have been possible were it not for the support from the Christchurch Chamber of Trade and Commerce. It is essential that we do all we can to boost revenue – where safe and appropriate to do so – for local businesses and we hope this sprinkling of Christmas cheer will help to do just that."
Festive Events
Many of our partner businesses are gearing up to offer some holiday cheer in the lead up to Christmas. Scroll down to see the full list of Christmas events.
Enjoy a festive day out with the family at one of our local attractions. Adventure Wonderland are hosting a magical, musical Santa Show as part of their Christmas experience.
Who doesn’t love a Christmas movie? Well now you can get your fix with Flix Drive in Christmas, offering a whole season of your favourite festive films and a brand new interactive pantomime experience from the comfort of your own car.
If you are looking for some light entertainment, Regent Centre are hosting a selection of socially distanced broadcasts and films during the month of December, including National Theatres War Horse.
Gift Vouchers
With Christmas just around the corner, why not treat your loved one to a gift voucher for a local attraction, theatre, restaurant or even a weekend away in one of our fabulous hotels.
Highcliffe Castle gift vouchers are valid for 24 months and can be used towards Castle admission, annual season tickets, guided tours and products in the gift shop, so could be a fantastic present this Christmas. The Castle Kitchen Gift Vouchers are also available to gift that special someone a tasty cream tea or afternoon tea.
Brewhouse & Kitchen located in Bournemouth, Southbourne and Poole offer experience days, including Gin Masterclasses and Beer Masterclasses which can be purchased with a gift card.
The Regent Centre also offer Christmas gift vouchers, for those looking forward to going back to live theatre performances next year.
Special Offers
Head to our special offers pages on our Bournemouth Tourism sister site for some great deals.
Transport and Christmas Parking Information
BCP Council is offering car users a series of free parking offers across the conurbation: on both Thursday evenings and Sundays in the main town centre car parks, and within other districts on Saturday afternoons. Free parking will be available as follows:
Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch Town Centres:
- Thursdays 3, 10, 17 and 24 December, 4pm to 10pm
- Sundays 6, 13 and 20 December, 10am to 6pm.
District car parks - Boscombe; Southbourne; Westbourne; Winton; Highcliffe; Ashley Road, Poole; Broadstone; Penn Hill, Poole; Canford Cliffs and Ashley Cross:
- Saturdays only, 5, 12 and 19 December, Midday to 6pm.
The specific car parks included in this scheme can be found below and online on the latest news section of the website.
To ensure car parks can be used safely, contactless payment methods are available in almost all of these facilities and anyone queuing should stay two metres apart. Face coverings are mandatory in all multi-story car parks.
Bus passengers will receive an early Christmas present from both Yellow Buses and Morebus in the form of a ticket that permits from two to five people to travel together on any number of journeys in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area for just £5 - a saving of £7 on the normal price.
The discounted tickets, purchased from the driver, will be available throughout the day each Sunday prior to Christmas (6, 13 and 20 December) and from 5.30pm to midnight every Thursday (3, 10 and 17 December). Tickets will be valid only for the operator from whom they are purchased (T&Cs apply).
It has been a tough year for everyone. May your Christmas be blessed with love, fun, peace, joy and happiness.
Merry Christmas from Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Tourism
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