Christchurch

Christchurch is set on the southern edge of the New Forest and 7 miles (11 km) east of Bournemouth. (Google map)

The historic town is located at the confluence of the rivers Avon and Stour which flow into Christchurch Harbour. The town has existed since 650AD and was originally known as Twynham meaning the settlement between two rivers. In Saxon times the harbour was one of the most important in England and acted as a port and harbour for trading boats travelling up-river as far as Blandford or Salisbury. If you are interested in history then a visit to the Red House Museum & Gardens https://www.hampshireculture.org.uk is well worth while.

Christchurch Priory church
Christchurch Priory – 11th century church

Visitor highlights include the Priory church built in 1094, the Quay with some lovely riverside walks, Christchurch Castle and Norman House and Place Mill. The town itself is quite attractive with some nice coffee shops, pubs and restaurants. You can also hire little motor boats on the River Stour or take a ferry from the Quay to Mudeford Sandbank.

Parking recommendations and car park locations and charges are given below.

Boats early in the morning on the River Stour by Christchurch Quay
Boats early in the morning on the River Stour by the Quay

Christchurch Priory Car Park

Sat Nav postcode BH23 1BU. This is a fairly small car park conveniently located between the Priory (church) and Christchurch quay with a capacity of 92 spaces (6 disabled). Car park charges are given below. The car park is open 24 hrs. Payment can be made using cash, phone or using an online app (JustPark, RingGo or PayByPhone).

More information can be found on the https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/Parking/ website

Christchurch Priory Car Park Charges

15 Mar – 31 Oct01 Nov – 14 Mar
2 hours£2.30£1.70
4 hours£3.80£3.10
12 hours£6.90£4.60
Charges apply 24 hrs, 7 days. Car park open 24 hrs. Info last checked and updated 05 March 2024

Christchurch Quay Car Park

Sat Nav postcode BH23 1BY. A very small car park located right on the quay with a capacity of 21 spaces (3 disabled). Car park charges are given below. The car park is open 24 hrs. Payment can be made using cash, phone or using an online app (JustPark, RingGo or PayByPhone).

More information can be found on the https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/Parking/ website

Christchurch Quay Car Park Charges

15 Mar – 31 Oct01 Nov – 14 Mar
2 hours£2.30£1.70
4 hours£3.80£3.10
12 hours£6.90£4.60
Charges apply 24 hrs, 7 days. Car park open 24 hrs. Info last checked and updated 05 March 2024
The ruins of Norman House bye the river in Castle Street
Norman House, Castle Street (Google map)
Stone bridge over the River Avon - just next to the Norman House.
Stone bridge over the River Avon – just next to the Norman House.
The Bandstand on the Quay overlooking the River Stour
The Bandstand on the Quay overlooking the River Stour (Google map)

Nearby Places of Interest & Attractions

Related Pages: Christchurch Priory | Boat Trips from Christchurch Quay / Mudeford Quay | Mudeford Sandbank | Hengistbury Head | Avon Beach | Friars Cliff Beach | Highcliffe Castle