September in Christchurch: 7 Brilliant Things to See, Do and Enjoy

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Christchurch Priory is one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks, and September brings several chances to discover more of its history through a programme of guided tours.

The month includes tours focusing on Tudor people, heraldry, the Priory during the Second World War, its exterior and even its historic graffiti. Each one offers a slightly different look at the story behind the 900-year-old church, making this a good excuse to revisit a landmark you may think you already know.

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September is a lovely time to enjoy Christchurch. The busiest weeks of summer have passed, but the coast, harbour and town centre still have plenty of life in them. It’s a month for slower walks, local history, market browsing and making the most of those final bright afternoons before autumn properly settles in.

Here are seven of our favourite ways to enjoy Christchurch this September.

Photo: CTC

Christchurch Market continues throughout September, bringing its regular mix of stalls into the town centre.

It’s the sort of simple local outing that works particularly well at this time of year: browse the market, stop for coffee and make an afternoon of exploring the independent shops and cafés nearby. The market runs on Mondays and is scheduled to continue through to December.

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Heritage Open Days returns across England from 11 to 20 September, with free events and special access to historic places across the country.

In the Christchurch area, one of the participating attractions is the Friends of the New Forest Aviation Heritage Centre in Bransgore, which is opening on Saturday 19 September with aviation displays, a children’s quiz and refreshments. It’s a particularly good option if you fancy discovering a less obvious slice of local history.

Photo: ChristchurchLifestyle

September is one of the nicest months for a walk around Christchurch Harbour. The summer crowds begin to thin out, but the light evenings and milder days can still make it feel surprisingly summery.

Start around the Quay and follow the riverside paths, or make your way towards Mudeford for views across the water. Christchurch sits between the Rivers Avon and Stour, with the harbour and coastline giving the town some of its most peaceful walking routes.

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Mudeford is worth visiting at any time of year, but September has a particularly relaxed feel.

Head to Mudeford Quay for a walk beside the water, watch the boats coming and going or continue towards Avon Beach if the weather is kind. With fewer summer crowds, it’s a lovely time to slow things down and enjoy the area without feeling like you need a packed itinerary.

Photo: CTC

Christchurch High Street has a strong mix of independent shops, boutiques and places to eat, which makes September a good month for a slower day in town.

Browse the shops, stop for lunch or coffee and take the time to explore some of the historic streets around the centre. Christchurch’s mix of independent businesses and food spots is one of the things that gives the town its character, particularly once the pace of summer begins to ease.

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September still has every chance of delivering the sort of day that feels more summer than autumn.

If the forecast behaves, head for Avon Beach, take a walk along the shoreline or simply find somewhere for lunch with a view. Christchurch’s coast stretches towards Highcliffe and Mudeford, giving you plenty of options for squeezing in one last proper seaside afternoon before the season changes.