Rainy Day Itinerary

Day 1 – AM  

Breakfast: Cliffhanger Restaurant on Highcliffe cliff top 

Start the day with a walk-through history at Highcliffe Castle. On your visit you will be introduced to the stories of the people who have lived in the Castle and hear about how this once lavish aristocrat's home was destroyed by two fires and subsequently rescued from ruin. Afterwards you can stop off at the tea rooms for a coffee.  

Lunch:  The Paddle on Highcliffe Highstreet 

Day 1 – PM 

Head into Christchurch town centre and meander around the beautiful Christchurch Priory admiring the history and architecture. A former Augustinian Priory, dating from 1094 and still in daily use. You can also stop off by the gift shop for a special Christchurch souvenir.  

If you really are a history buff, you can take a short walk down to The Red House Museum and Gardens. A former Georgian workhouse, the Red House is now a museum exploring the story of Christchurch from before the Ice Age to modern times. Find out about the town’s ancient past with displays about Saxon princes and Iron Age dwellers at Hengistbury Head, then take a glimpse at life in the 19th century in the Victorian bygone gallery. In the family area, you’ll find hands-on activities and dressing-up costumes, as well as quizzes and spotter trails. 

Head to The Clay studio and have a break with a hot drink and you can also take part in some pottery painting which you can take home. Artistic skill or previous experience are not necessary. New visitors are given clear instructions and staff are always available to help. All that is needed is enthusiasm to try something and sufficient patience to achieve your best results.