Visiting the Town

Aerial View

Three miles from the town centre is Bournemouth International (formerly Hurn) a regional airport with regular flights to the Channel Islands, Scotland, Ireland and European destinations. National Express will get or take you anywhere in Great Britain fast. They have direct express services to Heathrow and Gatwick airports. . Megabus are direct intercity express services too from £1 only.  Wilts & Dorset cover all areas of Wiltshire, Hampshire and Dorset. Also there is "More" a bus service crossing the conurbation of Christchurch through Bournemouth to Poole. These services are known as M1 & M2. These buses are super modern with air-conditioning, CCTV, low deck for disabled access and are as frequent as 10 mins so you cannot really miss one! Fixed price ticket and max price return of �2.00 ($3.98 US) At time of posting = Jan 2007

Spring / Summer

Summer obviously is the time when most events and attractions are in full swing. There are two mazes to get lost in! One at the Alice in Wonderland Park and the other created at Stewarts Gardenland Centre, the latter based on a different theme each year. 2004 theme was "the Shark Maze". Self drive motor boats to cruise up the River Stour and Avon are available for hire at Christchurch Quay, Tuckton Tea Gardens and Wick, these normally operate from May to October. Ferry cruises ply between Tuckton and the Harbour calling at Wick and the Quay. Probably the best way to see the landscape at a leisurely pace.

Autumn / Winter

Winter comes to us all but here in Christchurch it is still very pleasant to stroll down the riverside walks and feed the swans and ducks. Even on Boxing Day the Quay can be very busy with families and couples just out in the fresh air enjoying the peacefulness of the riverside. Many of the High Street and Saxon Square shops are open on Sunday if you need some retail therapy.

Leisure & Interest

The New Forest any time of year is a must visit! Vast open spaces and thick woods, a relief from the noise of traffic and a time to ponder. Red House Museum in Quay Road always open, where you can delve into the towns history. The Quay for that riverside tranquillity and fresh air. Placemill at the Quay completely renovated and still retaining the mill gear and artifacts Other opportunities include museums, gardens, fun, educational, "hands-on" interests
See Leisure & Interest link.

Dining Out

One thing that is available all year round is the numerous restaurants and cafes with their diverse and traditional menus. Popular are the seafood restaurants who serve up Sea Bass, Trout, White Bait, Crab and lobster, many of which are locally caught. Use the Dining Out link to find the type of dining or menu you require. Local pubs too, offer delicious menus from traditional Sunday lunches, Carvery and jacket potato. Chinese, Indian, Thai, Italian or traditional English View Restaurants Cafes and Pubs Read reviews

Motoring Services

While on your visit you may require assistance, breakdown or repairs to your vehicle. Always the unexpected problem! Possibly some parts, tyres or maintenance products. Some jobs can be rectified by yourself with just a few tools. Click on the Motoring Services link for local area dealers, new & used, parts, servicing, body and car care products.

Car Parking / Tariffs

All borough car parks charge for parking. These charges are quite reasonable compared to Bournemouth and the money raised is used to offset the cost of keeping the town tidy, flowers, hanging basket arrangements and general maintenance. The council prides itself on being able keep charges to minimum. Many of the machines have been updated with the facility of credit card payment and also a Phone & Park service. One phone call to pay for your parking and if your stay is longer than anticipated just make another call. Easy!