Christchurch is a historic borough town just a few miles east of Bournemouth on the magnificent south coast of England. Originally called Twynham, the town sits on the confluence of the River Stour and River Avon and was founded in the 7th century. After the construction of the superb Priory, Twynham was renamed to Christchurch in the 10th century. The town grew and became an important trading port and in the 18th and 19th centuries smuggling became a big business in the town. Today, the smuggling has long disappeared and the towns beaches, harbour, nature reserves and historically important buildings attract 1.5 million tourists a year with Bournemouth International Airport within the borough located at Hurn, handling hundreds of thousands of passengers a year. Christchurch is famous for having one of the highest population densities with residents over the age of 65 anywhere in Europe making it an ideal place to retire.
Why move to Christchurch? Christchurch is arguably one of the most idyllic and picturesque towns in the region and enjoys a slightly quieter pace of life than the neighbouring Bournemouth. With a bustling town centre where a whole host of shops, bars and restaurants can be found, there is something for everyone. The beaches at nearby Southbourne and Hengistbury Head provide the perfect place to enjoy the warmer 'tropical' climates of the south coast, where you can enjoy more days of sun than anywhere else in the United Kingdom. Close by is the New Forest, just 10 minutes in the car and you can find yourself in this truly stunning National Park with its deep roots in history and charming little villages such a Burley, Brockenhurst, Sway and Lyndhurst, all offering something different.
Christchurch has several desirable areas in which to live including Twynham, which is popular with families due to the excellent schools. Mudeford is a favourite with its charming and bustling working quay and holiday homes as well as Friars Cliff which is one of the most sought after locations close to Friars Cliff Beach with large detached character residences, some with commanding sea views. Highcliffe is also popular with families due to the excellent secondary school and with retirees given its close proximity to the beach/cliff tops, its convenient village life atmosphere and excellent transport links to Bournemouth, Poole, Southampton and beyond. All in all, Christchurch is a charming and idyllic town offering a wealth of leisure activities as well as employment opportunities in the nearby larger towns and is popular with families and the retired meaning property prices are buoyant given its desirability.
To view current properties for sale in Christchurch Town click here.
