Christchurch

Explore Christchurch with a history much deeper than its surrounding harbour waters. Find the Priory, its location selected by a divine being and the wood carved by Jesus himself. Wander the ruins of the castle and the Norman Hall, the medieval hotel for royalty, with its toilet hanging over the little mill stream. Discover secret hiding spots and sites of battles involving well skilled smugglers, their accumulated wealth given back to the town. Venture over the wild marshes to Grimbury Beach, with views to the hill fort of Hengistbury Head and over the Stour and Avon rivers to the Priory, and return following the little mill stream.

Distance:  5 miles/8km or two shorter walks – Town (2 miles/3km) and Marsh (4 miles/6.5km)

Duration: 2-3 hours

Ability: Easy.

Max Height: 25ft.

Min Height: 0ft.

Total climb: 50ft.

Terrain: Tracks, paths and roads.

Map: OS Explorer OL22 New Forest

Start Point: Quomps, Quay Road. (Postcode: BH23 1BY, Grid Reference: SZ159924, What Three Words: trains.action.tables). Payment required.

How to Get There:  On arriving at Christchurch on the A35 at Fountains Roundabout take the High Street straight down and onto to Church Street. Follow it around the right hand bend and then turn left onto Quay Road.  Take the next right then left again to find the carpark next to the recreational ground.

Dogs: In accordance with the Countryside Code and any notices on route. On the lead throughout the marshes. No dogs allowed in the Priory.

Refreshments: A selection are on or near the route including The Ship, Ye Old George Inn and The Ship in Distress.

Toilets: On the opposite side of the recreational ground to the car park.

Neighbouring Walks: Upton Heath, Canford Heath, Throop, Iford and Hengistbury Head.