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It may not look it from the outset but this quaint and idyllic town packs a real punch when it comes to its celebrations.
When it comes to food, glorious food, this seaside haven is nothing short of a foodie’s paradise with culinary delights galore. Dorset is renowned for its local produce and, coupled with the town’s weekly farmers’ markets, you’ll find Christchurch is a true celebration of beer, cheese and the all-important seafood.
The Christchurch Food Festival takes place every May and provides fun and entertainment for the whole family. Attracting top celebrity chefs with live cookery demonstrations promoting their culinary skills, this is one of the top events of its type.
Celebrating the historic fishing community is the Mudeford Seafood Festival, taking place every May. Bringing together Mudeford’s rich cultural heritage, its local produce and its historic links to the Solent, Christchurch bay, harbour and quay – while being set against the picturesque backdrop of Mudeford Quay – it’s a fish-and-chips experience like you’ve never had before.
The increasingly popular Cheese & Chilli Festival returns every June with a celebration of – you’ve guessed it – cheese and chilli. Local and regional traders flock to the harbourside location with live masterclasses at the demonstration theatre, entertainment for all the family not to mention quite a few chilli-related competitions – warning; this is not for the faint-hearted!
Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival also takes place in June each year at the stunning former home of none other than Mr Selfridge; Highcliffe Castle. This two-day event, at this breath-taking location, is a special treat on the very edge of the village’s border with the New Forest national park.
And it’s not just food that draws in the crowds. Also known as the Sporting Glastonbury, the always-popular Bournemouth 7s is an electric celebration of music and sport and has long been a favourite among sportspeople – competitors and enthusiasts – and festival-goers alike. Whether you’re five or 85 there is something for everyone at this formidable event.
With so much going on throughout the year you’ll have to plan a return visit before you’ve even left home.
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