Christchurch Visitor Guide 2013 - Visit Dorset

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Discover centuries of 4 Place Mill There can be no doubt that Christchurch is a unique place to visit, located as it is on the coast near the border between Hampshire and Dorset and close to the New Forest, the Isle of Wight and the World Heritage Jurassic Coast. character Few places in the country can boast two rivers, two castles, an 11th century Priory Church, a mill of Saxon origin, a medieval bridge and the site of a civil war siege in 1645, so it is no wonder that people have been visiting Christchurch for hundreds of years. Christchurch’s historic Priory Quarter is right in the heart of the town centre so you won’t have to walk far to enjoy the fascinating heritage. It is dominated by the magnificent Priory Church which was awarded five stars by Simon Jenkins in his book, England’s Thousand Best Churches, and has excellent examples of architecture ranging from Norman through to Renaissance, and also the St Michael’s Loft Museum. A varied programme of guided tours and concerts takes place throughout the year. Adjacent to the Priory Church is the Red House Museum and Gardens, a fascinating museum with delightful gardens and an enjoyable programme of changing exhibitions, activities, talks and workshops throughout the year. It was purpose-built as a workhouse in 1764 and nowadays is the place to visit to learn all about Christchurch’s rich history. Place Mill on Christchurch Quay probably originated in Saxon times and was mentioned in the Domesday Book. Although it no longer grinds corn, it has been restored and is open during the spring and summer months as an Art Gallery with displays of smuggling, and local history memorabilia. The pretty Convent Walk was created to commemorate the coronation of King George V in 1911 and follows the Mill Stream from Place Mill, past the monks’
Highcliffe Castle and par-terre Did you know garderobe to the Norman Constable’s Hall, part of the castle, which has one of the best examples of a Norman chimney in the country. Beside the Bowling Green are the ruins of Christchurch Castle Keep which was originally a motte and bailey construction and was probably built around 1100 to protect the town’s river access. If you are feeling energetic you can climb the steep steps and enjoy the surrounding view. Highcliffe Castle, a superb Grade 1 Listed cliff-top mansion house, is only a four-minute drive away in Highcliffe, and was built between 1831 and 1835. It has been described as “the most important remaining example of the Romantic and Picturesque style of architecture”. It has been renovated extensively and has a wideranging programme of events and exhibitions. ● Highcliffe Castle is one of the most popular wedding venues in Dorset & Hampshire. ● The Red House Museum has four fascinating podcasts, so visit: www3.hants.gov.uk/museum/ redhouse/podcasts.html www.visitchristchurch.info 5
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Christchurch Visitor Guide 2013 - Visit Dorset

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