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.
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.
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 Oct | 01 Nov – 14 Mar | |
| 2 hours | £2.30 | £1.70 |
| 4 hours | £3.80 | £3.10 |
| 12 hours | £6.90 | £4.60 |
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 Oct | 01 Nov – 14 Mar | |
| 2 hours | £2.30 | £1.70 |
| 4 hours | £3.80 | £3.10 |
| 12 hours | £6.90 | £4.60 |
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