Exploring the beauty spots and attractions of the area
AD | With seven miles of white sand beaches stretching along the south coast of England, Bournemouth is one of the premier coastal destinations in the country. The vibrant town centre, packed full of bars and restaurants is hugely popular, but stepping away from this hub of activity provides a coastline packed full of beauty spots, historic sites and a very laid back vibe which characterises the people and the place. We recently spent a long weekend in Bournemouth and Christchurch, Dorset, taking time to venture along the coast in both directions, finding some magical spots along the way.
This visit was a press trip hosted by the BCP Council and Bournemouth Beach Lodges. Accommodation, activities and the majority of meals were included, however all views are my own.
Three Night Itinerary for a long weekend in Bournemouth
First thing to do when heading to the coast is to check the weather forecast. Admit it, we all do it, especially when we want to be spending as much time outside as possible. The miracle of a weather forecast packed full of sunshine for a whole weekend sounded too good to be true, but it was good encouragement to pack the beach towel and flip flops. With our beachfront stay organised at the Bournemouth Beach Lodges, we had a busy three day itinerary organised where we could get outdoors and take in the scenery by foot or by bike. We wanted to get a taste of life along the coastline, sample the local flavours, check out the local scenery and also take a look at what there was to do beyond the beach. This three night stay provided us with just enough time to really get a feel for life on the coast of Bournemouth and Christchurch, Dorset.
Day One – A bicycle ride to Sandbanks and back
One of the things I was keen to do during our weekend in Bournemouth was get out on two wheels. Cycling along the coastline seemed to be the ideal way to get around, thanks to the seaside promenade stretching from Sandbanks in the west all the way to Southbourne in the east. The best thing about cycling the length of the promenade, is that there are only a couple of spots where you have to access the roads, and only for a short while. This is great for less confident cyclists, although it’s worth noting that cycling along the promenade in the peak months of July and August is not permitted.
Beryl Bikes
Bournemouth has a green bike share concept operated by Beryl Bikes. With 1200 Beryl Bikes and 340 Beryl Bays located across Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch, the app based system means that you can locate bikes which are available nearby to collect, hop on and then drop them off at a designated Beryl Bay at your destination. There are a variety of passes available to choose from including Day Passes which are the most cost effective system if you’re likely to do numerous trips in a 24 hour period. Simply locate a bike, unlock using the app, hop on and ride away. The bikes have a storage basket to the front, three gears and an adjustable saddle and are super easy to operate. The system is fantastic, and there were bikes available at most locations we needed them, or we only had a short walk to reach some.
HEAD TO THE BERYL BIKES WEBSITE TO DOWNLOAD THE APP AND GET STARTED
Having checked into our accommodation at 3pm, there was time to unpack, familiarise ourselves with the surroundings on Boscombe Beach before heading off to locate a Beryl Bike. Luckily, the app advised there was a Beryl Bay outside of the Bournemouth Beach Lodges with bikes available, so we headed out to collect them. Out first cycle took us west heading back towards the centre of Bournemouth, passing the busy pier area and then heading out on the relatively quiet promenade towards Sandbanks. We stopped along the way a few times, purely to soak up the stunning views of the Dorset coast. Joggers, walkers, surfers and kite surfers were enjoying their Friday afternoon on the beach in this idyllic setting.
Sandbanks
A five mile, thirty minute cycle ride west took us to the exclusive Sandbanks, located between Bournemouth and Poole. A spit of land with the most stunning beach, fabulous restaurants, hotels and very desirable properties that would make you rush out and buy a lottery ticket. We locked up our bikes at a Beryl Bay, grabbed a drink from a nearby kiosk and took a stroll across the stunning sandy beach. Groups of people were playing beach volleyball, a few people taking a dip in the sea that was still a little chilly, and people sunbathing on the beach with a book. What a way to spend a Friday evening, in such a fabulous setting. Sandbanks is high on the list for a return visit, to explore a little more, and perhaps dine in one of those beachfront restaurants.
Dinner: Urban Reef on Boscombe Beach
Having cycled back to Boscombe Beach to freshen up it was time to head out for dinner at Urban Reef Restaurant and Bar located on Boscombe Promenade. A short walk from our accommodation, this informal cafe bar and restaurant is lively and laid back, with fabulous views of the coastline and Boscombe Pier from the large outdoor terrace and balcony. The first floor restaurant had a contemporary vibe and was fitted out beautifully with rustic wooden panelling and decor providing a nod to the seaside location. With a great menu packed full of delicious sounding locally sourced fish, meat and plant based dishes, it was difficult to choose.
From beautifully presented Seared Scallop to Isle of Wight Tomato and Laverstoke Burrata starters to Sirloin Steaks and Cod Fillet mains, we experienced some fantastic flavour combinations. Finishing off with a Trio of Ice Cream and Cheeseboard, all courses were fantastic and washed down with great wine and Urban Reef Craft Lager. A fabulous evening.
BOOK A TABLE ON THE URBAN REEF WEBSITE
Day Two – Exploring the beauty spots and things to do around Christchurch
A refreshing nights sleep at Bournemouth Beach Lodges, waking to the gentle sounds of the sea and the sun shining, it was time to get our second day underway. The self catering lodges had a well equipped kitchen so we chose to have breakfast there, so we could get out and explore earlier in the mornings. The outdoor deck was the perfect breakfast spot, looking out to sea and people watching. The lodges, located behind the beach huts lining the promenade, provide great views but also retain a level of privacy from the beach.
The plan for our second day was to head east along the promenade to Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve, take a walk across the headland to Mudeford Spit before heading into Christchurch. Hopping onto our Beryl Bikes, we took a three mile cycle ride, passing by all of the colourful beach huts that line the promenade, watching the headland of Hengistbury Head get ever closer. A short ride along the roads from the promenade and we locked up the bikes near the HIKER CAFE at the Hengistbury Head Car Park before setting out on foot.
A stunning walk across Hengistbury Head
A headland and nature reserve located to the eastern end of the promenade between Bournemouth and Mudeford, Hengistbury Head is a fabulous place to explore for all the family. With over a million visitors per year, a network of pathways traverse around the heathland, grasslands, woodlands and salt marshes that make up the habitat of the area. The HENGISTBURY HEAD VISITOR CENTRE should be the first port of call, which offers a host of information about the area with volunteers to answer any questions. Our route took us up to the highest point of the nature reserve at Warren Hill, an area of heathland with fabulous panoramic views in all directions.
Wildflowers grew amongst the grasses, heather and gorse at the summit, and there were numerous stopping points to take in the scenic views. Looking west provided a fantastic overview of the beaches and coastline of Bournemouth, reaching towards the cliffs of Studland Bay and Old Harry Rocks. Looking north, the magnificent Christchurch Harbour sat in the shadow of Christchurch Priory dominating the skyline of the town. Occasionally, there would be a glimpse of the beautiful golden sands of Hengistbury Head Beach down below. Waves lapping against the shore and people casually strolling in the warm sunshine.
The beautiful beach huts of Mudeford Spit
Continuing our walk along the headland, we continued heading east to reach a viewpoint of Mudeford Spit, lined with stunning beach huts. Separating Christchurch Harbour from the English Channel, this narrow sandbank is lined with two rows of picture perfect colourful beach huts overlooking the harbour or the sea.
Gently shelving white sands and calmly lapping waves give this spot an exclusive feel, which is not far off the mark, as some beach huts have sold for hundreds of thousands of pounds in recent years. Walking along the sands in the sunshine, I could have easily imagined myself on a Caribbean beach here. With ferry crossings from Christchurch, Mudeford and a land train from Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre, it would be a fabulous location to spend the perfect beach day, with food and drink available at the BEACH HOUSE CAFE.
Getting out on the water at Christchurch Harbour
We wanted to make sure that we got out on the water at some point during our weekend in Bournemouth, and Christchurch Harbour was the perfect place to do so. Whether a simple ferry ride with views of the harbour, or water sports activities such as Standup Paddleboarding and kayaking, there are a range of options available at the harbour. We opted for a relaxing ferry ride across the harbour to Christchurch Quay, which was a great experience.
Operated by BOURNEMOUTH BOATING SERVICES, a regular ferry service operates daily between Mudeford Spit and Tuckton on the River Stour, stopping at Christchurch Quay and Wick. A one way, twenty minute journey to Christchurch Quay cost £6.00 per person and the journey took about twenty minutes. Providing fantastic views back towards Mudeford Spit and Hengistbury Head, as the journey continued up towards the River Stour we had great views of Christchurch Priory behind the boats moored along the river.
Exploring the attractions of Christchurch, Dorset
Stepping off the ferry on Christchurch Quay on a Saturday afternoon, there was a vibrant and lively feel. The lawns around the quay were busy and people were out on the water on paddleboards, kayaks or hired motorboats. Heading into the heart of the Saxon town, the streets were full of boutique shops and restaurants, gorgeous architecture and some historic buildings not to be missed. With jubilee bunting gently swaying in the breeze above the pretty streets, the town had a quintessentially English feel.
Christchurch Priory
Out first port of call in Christchurch was a visit to CHRISTCHURCH PRIORY. Set in a large churchyard, the stunning building has stood for centuries, some parts of the building dating back to Norman times. Entry to Christchurch Priory is free of charge, although donations are welcomed. The tower, standing at 120 feet high dominates the skyline of the town, and the intricate carvings and architecture of the interiors are staggeringly beautiful. We spent a while quietly wandering around, gazing up at the vaulted ceilings and spectacular stainless glass windows. It seemed every turn we took, the scene became more beautiful.
Red House Museum and Gardens
Located near the Christchurch Priory, our next stop was to the RED HOUSE MUSEUM AND GARDENS. Located in a listed Georgian building, the museum is home to numerous displays and artefacts from over the years, capturing the local history of the area. With an art gallery and cafe, who in their own words, serve awesome coffee and cake, the building is set in stunning grounds which are also a joy to explore. From a walled herb garden, woodland walks and cottage garden borders, spend some time among the greenery with a perfect view out to Christchurch Priory.
Riverside walks from Christchurch Quay
A quick lunch stop sitting out on the veranda of the BOATHOUSE at Christchurch Quay was just what we needed to refuel, before setting off out on foot and bike again. There are a network of pathways running along either side of the River Stour, providing relaxing walking routes along the waters edge. Heading west from Christchurch Quay was a great vantage point to get a feel for life on the river. From the fancy yachts to the small motor boats, paddleboarders and dogs chasing balls, everyone seemed to be enjoying the pace of life here and I could see why. Picking up a Beryl Bike from a local bay we took a twenty minute cycle ride back to the Bournemouth Beach Lodges to freshen up and head out for dinner.
Dinner: Captain’s Table Restaurant at the Captain’s Club Hotel and Spa
Saturday night’s dinner setting was a real treat. The CAPTAIN’S CLUB HOTEL & SPA is located directly on the promenade of the River Stour, the perfect spot for a relaxing drink out on the terrace before heading indoors to the Captain’s Table Restaurant for a delicious meal. The AA Rosette awarded restaurant provided a relaxed setting in a contemporary space, with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the water. The menu, packed full of delicious options, provided a range of meat and seafood options, as well as a wide range of plant based options – something to suit everyone.
For starters, we opted for the Cheese Souffle and Buttered Asparagus with Crispy Egg. Both dishes were beautifully presented with fabulous flavours. The mains, also delicious, were a Pan Fried Duck Breast and a wonderful Herb Crusted Chicken Breast with Spinach Croquettes. The desserts were too good to miss, so I opted for a rich Lemon and Elderflower Panna Cotta and Pete had a beautifully presented and tasty Rhubarb and Custard Tart. The restaurant has an extensive wine menu with plenty of options available by the glass, alongside beers, sprits, cocktails and soft drinks. A wonderful evening, in a lovely setting. The Club Lounge, next to the restaurant, was the perfect spot for a nightcap before heading home.
BOOK A TABLE ON THE CAPTAIN’S CLUB HOTEL AND SPA WEBSITE
Day Three – Exploring the coastlines and castles of Highcliffe and Avon Beach
The final day of our long weekend in Bournemouth and Christchurch arrived, and it was time to head a little further afield. As luck would have it, the Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival was taking place during our stay. At just under eight miles from the beach lodges, we opted to drive rather than cycle as we wanted to spend time exploring the area without the need to rush. A fifteen minute drive, passing through Christchurch, and we parked up at Steamer Point Car Park at Avon Beach. A short walk from Highcliffe itself, it provided the option to explore the Steamer Point Nature Reserve as well as the surrounding cliffs and beaches.
Wander along Highcliffe and Avon Beach
Heading uphill from the car park, a path leads into the woodland setting of the Steamer Point Nature Reserve. This 24 acre space designated a local nature reserve provides a network of pathways leading through the woodland and past a number of ponds, packed full of wildlife. There are signage points along the pathways providing information about the history of the area, including use by the Ministry of Defence as a location for secret research into radio communication during the second world war.
There are also pathways from the woodland leading to steps down the cliffside to Highcliffe Beach below. A wilder, more rugged stretch of beach than those closer to Bournemouth, Highcliffe Beach still retains the beautiful white sands and is quieter than the beaches in the heavier populated areas. Heading west from Highcliffe Beach leads to Avon Beach and Mudeford Quay, popular for water sports such as paddle boarding, due to the gentler and shallower waters. The woodland at Steamer Point used to form part of the Highcliffe Castle Estate and even today, the woodland paths lead directly into the castle grounds.
A tour of Highcliffe Castle
Owned and operated by BCP Council, HIGHCLIFFE CASTLE is a Grade I listed building designed in the Romantic and Picturesque architectural style with the stunning gardens designed and laid out by Capability Brown. Originally constructed in the 1830’s, the house has a rich history and was once rented out to American retail entrepreneur Harry Gordon Selfridge. During the 1950’s the house operated as a children’s convalescent home and from late in the 1960’s after being sold suffered a number of large fires which destroyed large parts of the buildings, and was left in disrepair.
Highcliffe Castle was purchased in the 1970’s by the local council, and finally in the 1990’s work started on a repair and conservation project to bring the stunning building back to its former glory. Today, the exterior of the building looks magnificent, surrounded by beautifully landscapes grounds. The interior, still a work in progress, forms part of a self guided tour detailing the history of the building. Parts of the interior have been painstakingly reconstructed and visiting rooms like the Great Hall with its enormous stained glass window, provides an insight into how the building would have been in its heyday. With a gift shop and tea room on site, it’s the perfect spot to spend a few hours while in the area.
BOOK TICKETS TO VISIT ON THE HIGHCLIFFE CASTLE WEBSITE
Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival
A short walk from Highcliffe Castle took us into the centre of Highcliffe, which was busy full of people enjoying the HIGHCLIFFE FOOD AND ARTS FESTIVAL. Having been cancelled due to the pandemic, 2022 was the first event since 2019 and eagerly awaited by locals wanting to soak up the atmosphere, sample some awesome food and drink and take a look at the stalls selling fantastic artwork. With a heavy focus on local and regional independent businesses, the high street was lined with stalls selling fabulous food and drink. From delicious brownies, cheeses and inventive curries to local beers, cider and gin, there was something for everyone. The festival spilled into the village green, with further stalls as well as stage providing musical entertainment and a marquee with cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs.
Dinner: The Noisy Lobster, Avon Beach
Back down to the coast from Highcliffe, we took a wander down Avon Beach, once again lined with beach huts and cafes to reach our dinner destination for the final night – THE NOISY LOBSTER. A family run restaurant, The Noisy Lobster unsurprisingly specialise in offering the best locally caught seafood. A relaxing drink on the outdoor terrace was a great way to start the evening while studying the menu, packed full of seafood dishes, as well as meat and plant based options. Heading into the restaurant, there were two rooms downstairs, as well as a large bar area with terrace upstairs. The main restaurant area was bright and airy, with wood panelled walls, a mix of booth seating and tables lined along the picture windows with unobscured views of the sea and across the channel to the Needles on the Isle of Wight. It was a beautiful setting.
We both opted for two seafood dishes, how could you not? A Calamari starter with popped capers and tartare sauce, followed by a mouth watering Cod Supreme with smoked fish and duck fat rosti, and asparagus. Pete’s fabulous choices were a Scallop Starter, followed by a delicious and fiery Crispy Bang Bang Monkfish with Thai Red Lobster Bisque and Coconut Rice, which were both a sure fire hit. Taking a little rest after the generous portions, we managed to finish off the evening with some fabulous desserts and coffee. Leaving the restaurant, the moon was rising above the sea against the pastel skies during sunset. A perfect end to a wonderful long weekend in Bournemouth and Christchurch.
BOOK A TABLE ON THE NOISY LOBSTER WEBSITE
Where to stay for a long weekend in Bournemouth
A perfect view of the sea, away from the hive of activity in the town centre, Bournemouth Beach Lodges are the perfect accommodation for a long weekend in Bournemouth and Christchurch. Located two miles east of the town centre on Boscombe Beach, these modern and contemporary lodges provide the ideal setting for guests looking for a relaxing coastal break. The lodges, designed to blend in with the beach huts that line the promenade, sleep up to six people with terraces overlooking the sea.
Bifold doors from the terrace open into the ground floor space, comprising a dining area with additional bench seating, leading through to a modern kitchenette with all amenities (apart from an oven) for all your self catering needs. Next to the kitchen, a small shower room is located with WC and basin. A steep set of wooden steps, with stairgates, lead up to a mezzanine area featuring a double bed and single bed in the eaves of the lodge. The bench seating of the ground floor open to a double and single bed, providing additional sleeping space.
BOOK YOUR STAY ON THE BOURNEMOUTH BEACH LODGES WEBSITE
RELATED CONTENT
Extend your stay in Dorset by visiting and taking a walk FROM LULWORTH COVE TO DURDLE DOOR.
Explore the South West of England with FIVE PLACES TO VISIT ON THE SOUTH CORNWALL COAST.
SOCIALS
If you enjoyed this article about the fabulous North Wales activities to get the adrenaline pumping and found it useful, please leave a comment in the box below or Pin one of the images below to PINTEREST.
For regular photo updates on my travels, follow my account on INSTAGRAM.
Scroll down (on mobile) to subscribe and get new post alerts directly to your inbox. If you’re on desktop, head to the right hand sidebar and pop in your email address.
We have just spent a few days exploring the beaches around Mudeford, Christchurch and Bournemouth. Such a beautiful area and so fortunate to be by the sea during this hot weather. We were camping, so our accommodation was not as luxurious as yours, but still fun. Your photos are fantastic – they make me want to go back already!
Thanks Jan, it was my first visit to properly explore and how amazing is that coastline! Glad you enjoyed it, I hope to revisit soon too.