Christchurch

A medieval town situated between Bournemouth and the New Forest and dominated by its famous 11th century Priory, the longest parish church in England.

The Priory has examples of most styles of architecture including Norman, Gothic and Early English and for a small charge visitors can climb the 176 steps of the tower to be rewarded by magnificent views of the Isle of Wight, Purbeck and the surrounding district.

A short distance from the Priory is the Red House Museum and Gardens, housed in what was once the town's workhouse, with its exhibits reflecting the social and natural history of the area.

Just 5 minutes walk from the High Street and set in an Edwardian power station is the Museum of Electricity where exhibits include a large collection of early sound and TV domestic equipment, a restored Bournemouth tramcar and other electric vehicles, demonstrations and historic working models which show the basics of electricity in an entertaining way.

With an interesting range of shops including major chain stores, a market every Monday, a farmers market on the first Friday of the month and a Country Fayre every Thursday Christchurch really does have something for everyone.

More information at:

 www.christchurchtourism.info, www.christchurchpriory.org and

 www.scottish-southern.co.uk/sseinternet/museum