Cool Places
Christchurch
Christchurch, Dorset
This attractive and historic market town (market day is Monday) sits on the confluence of the rivers Stour and Avon and boasts England’s longest parish church, the graceful Priory, parts of which date back to the 11th century. Other historic attractions include the remains of a Norman castle, a partly-Saxon water mill and the engaging Red House Museum which has displays of local history and artefacts in a Georgian former workhouse. From the quay there are boat trips upriver and out to the local beaches and also lovely riverside walks. Christchurch also has a burgeoning reputation for food, with regular farmer’s markets, an annual food festival in May and some top restaurants.
