Highcliffe and Walkford

Highcliffe and Walkford are seaside and suburban communities on the eastern edge of the unitary authority of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, sitting where low chalk and sandstone cliffs meet the coast and the wider Christchurch harbour and estuary. The area benefits from extensive coastal walks, sandy beaches and nearby woodland – it forms a fringe between the urban conurbation and the New Forest countryside, making it popular for walking, sailing and wildlife watching.

Culturally and economically the parish mixes tourism, small local businesses and residential life: Highcliffe is known for its Victorian Gothic castle set in public gardens and for a busy seafront of cafés and holiday accommodation, while Walkford has a quieter, village-like feel with local shops and schools. The community attracts families and retirees, hosts seasonal events and relies on a mix of visitor trade, local services and commuters travelling into the larger nearby towns.