If you're looking for that festive base for a winter short break then look no further than Christchurch!
Christchurch High Street always looks splendid adorned with festive illuminations and a large tree brings Christmas cheer to the main shopping precinct. This quaint cobble-stoned town becomes ethereal as the night draws in: twinkling lights against the backdrop of rugged stone arches, black wooden beams and roaring hearths.
The high street of boutique independent shops and snug, welcoming cafes is lined with stunning lights leading you deeper into the heart of the town. Also at this time of year, visiting the Priory is made a little more special.
Christchurch town is a wonderful place to get in the festive spirit.
Enjoy family-friendly entertainment, live music and festive shopping in Christchurch at the town council’s big Christmas lights ‘switch on’ event on 23 November. For a whole day of fun 11am - 7pm, look no further! The day includes a market, entertainment and music, plus look out for Olaf and friends as our friendly characters join in the fun and amaze the children!
For more information visit Christchurch Town Council's website
Highcliffe Castle invites you to come and enjoy both crafts and a festival of trees.
Highcliffe Castle will be hosting ‘Creatives at the Castle’ Christmas Fair on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 November 2024 10am – 4pm.
From 1-22 December visit Highcliffe Castle's Christmas Tree Festival. The decorated trees will take pride of place in our State Rooms. Younger visitors can enjoy Christmas storytelling and a festive trail which will incorporate the trees contributed by local businesses, charities and individuals to create a delightful experience for all. Tickets include entry to the Castle, entry to the Festival, children’s trail and our new art exhibition ‘ The Wonder of Winter’.
Red House Museums and Gardens have activities including a ceramic workshop and fused glass sessions planned. Head to their event listings but be sure to book early.
The Christchurch Living Advent Calendar is back with pop up performances from local groups including choirs, bands, singers, theatre pieces and dance troupes! Showing at different venues across the town from 6pm, 1 December.
There is nothing more Christmassy than enjoying a live concert, Christmas market or Christmas Service at the beautiful Priory Church over the festive season. With a plethora of dates in the calendar, there is something for everyone.
• Christmas Fayre & Craft Market Saturday 23rd November, 10.30am - 4.30pm
• Christchurch Living Advent Calendar Monday 2nd December, 6pm • Music Centre Concert* Saturday 14th December, 7pm
• The Snowman* Monday 23rd December, 1.30pm, 3pm, 5pm & 6.30pm
* Tickets must be purchased for these events. For more details please visit the Priory online
At Christmas and in the lead up when many of us have family and friends close, it's great to wrap up and enjoy just being together for a walk in one of the many picture perfect parks and coastal locations in and around Christchurch.
Christchurch Quay or Avon Beach, there are so many beautiful open spaces, we are spoilt for choice. So if the weather's crisp and the outdoors is beckoning come out and play!
Saturday 14 December, 4.30pm-5.30pm Saxon Square - New for 2024!
Join the festive singalong in Saxon Square. Accompanied and led by the brilliant Christchurch Baptist Church Band (famed for their Beers and Carols nights!), this is the perfect opportunity to come together and sing your heart out to all your Christmas Carol favourites!
You are invited to help light up Saxon Square! Bring along homemade lanterns (LED lit), LED light-up wands and clear umbrellas adorned with Christmas decor and fairy lights! Let’s make Saxon Square sparkle! Mulled Wine and mince pies will also be available to purchase on the night for that extra special Christmas feel.
Why not get ahead with the festive shopping and treat your loved one to a gift voucher for a local attraction, theatre, restaurant or even a weekend away in one of our fabulous hotels.
Highcliffe Castle gift vouchers could be a fantastic present this Christmas. Pop into or contact the Castle Shop to buy vouchers.
The Regent Centre also offer Christmas gift vouchers, a great gift for those wo enjoy live theatre performances.
For a magical Christmas experience, just along the coast, visit Bournemouth’s Christmas Tree Wonderland. An atmosphere of good cheer is all around with a range of entertainment, dazzling light displays, sweet treats and so much more from 15 November - 31 December 2024
In Poole, there is also a magical and free festive experience - Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail. Featuring a number of impressive light installations, from the town to the quay, you'll find a picture perfect moment this winter in Poole. Runs from 23 November 2024 - 1 January 2025.
In the festive season travel efficiently and comfortably on public transport:
Morebus continue to offer their single journeys for just £2, and expect this to continue until the end of December. So while you're out shopping or visiting Christmas Tree Wonderland, have that Christmas drink knowing you can ride home with Morebus.
These are a great way to beat the traffic and take a sustainable journey. Find a Beryl bike or sccooter quickly near you'
Download the Beryl App now to access over 1000 bikes, e-bikes and e-scooters available at over 400 parking bays across the BCP area.
If you're arriving by car, you'll want to find a convenient place to park.For more information about car parks please visit the find a car park page on the BCP council website.
With big thanks to the Town Council and BID for ensuring Christchurch gets into the festive spirit!
For more information on all of the BID's festive fun, browse their site or follow them on Facebook and Instagram @Christchurch BID
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