Parish in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, England
| Coordinates: | 50.743, -1.767 |
|---|---|
| OS grid ref: | SZ 16 93 |
| Population: | 42,396 |
| Dialling code: | 01202 (Bournemouth) |
Christchurch is a historic riverside and coastal town on the south coast of England, within the unitary authority of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. It sits at the confluence of the River Avon and the River Stour, with a sheltered harbour opening onto the English Channel and the nearby headland of Hengistbury Head. The town centre is dominated by the medieval Christchurch Priory, the Norman motte of Christchurch Castle, narrow historic streets and a working quay at Mudeford.
Today Christchurch mixes a tourism- and maritime-led economy - sailing, fishing and beach visitors are important - with independent shops, regular local festivals and a significant retired population, while many people commute to nearby Bournemouth and Poole. Conservation designations for the harbour and surrounding heathland help protect its natural attractions, and ferries link the town with Sandbanks and the wider south coast.
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