The town's characteristics include a Priory Church, a picturesque castle, sandy beaches and a reputation for the finest cuisine.

Christchurch tourism (opens in a new window)

The Christchurch Information Centre, which is situated in the High Street, provides details of many events in the area. 

Christchurch Priory (opens in a new window)

The Priory Church dates from Norman times and is built on the site of the old Anglo Saxon Priory. Special features are the beautiful 1094 Norman nave, the Lady Chapel's pendant vault and misericords one of which is believed to be the oldest in England.

Highcliffe Castle (opens in a new window)

Highcliffe Castle is a Grade I listed building in the Romantic and Picturesque style of architecture. It stands on the cliff top with views to the Isle of Wight. The Castle has a visitor Centre, Gift Shop and Tearooms.

Wedding ceremonies are held in the conservatory and the newly refurbished dining room, which seats up to 80 guests, is used for receptions.

Beaches in Christchurch

The beaches of Christchurch stretch continuously from Highcliffe in the East to Avon Beach in the West and the more isolated location of Mudeford Sandbank beach.

Christchurch countryside

Christchurch Borough Council manages 17 countryside sites and nature reserves.  The nature reserve at Steamer Point has won a prestigious Green Flag award on several occasions.

Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre

This is a council-owned leisure centre that offers first class leisure and fitness facilities.

The Regent Centre (opens in a new window)

The Regent Centre is a community arts centre in the High Street which provides a diverse programme of events including theatre, film, dance, music and art exhibitions.

The Red House Museum and Gardens (opens in a new window)

This charming building is a former workhouse built in 1764. It now houses a rich variety of displays and objects which reflect the social and natural history of the area, its geology and archaeology.

Christchurch Food and Wine Festival (opens in a new window)

Christchurch holds an annual international Food and Wine Festival each May in the town's High Street and local restaurants. Each year well known TV chefs take part in public cookery demonstrations.

The Christchurch Community Partnership

Christchurch Community Partnership (CCP) is a network of individuals and organisations engaging and empowering local residents and organisations. Their aim is to improve the social, economic and environmental well-being and quality of life of those who live in, work in and visit Christchurch.

How to get to Christchurch

Directions from London, The South West, Midlands, North and Scotland. Wales, Dover, Newhaven and Portsmouth.

• Christchurch Borough Council Customer Services
  Name: Christchurch Borough Council
  Email: customerservices@christchurch.gov.uk
  Tel: 01202 495000
  Fax: 01202 495234
  Full details for Christchurch Borough Council
• Name: Tourism (Christchurch)
  Email: enquiries@christchurchtourism.info
  Tel: 01202 495127
  Full details for Tourism (Christchurch)