Explore Christchurch This Easter on the Cultural Trail
Are you thinking of getting out and about this Easter and learning a little about the heritage of our wonderful town? The Christchurch Cultural Trail is the perfect way to do it.
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🦀 Salty's Yarmouth Set to Reopen – A South Coast Icon Returns
One of the South Coast's most iconic coastal venues is making a comeback. Salty's in Yarmouth is set to reopen on 29th April 2026 under new ownership from Quay Hospitality Group — the team behind The Thomas Tripp, Bodega, 18 Bar & Restaurant and The Smugglers.
🏡 Hartstone Development in Christchurch – A New Chapter for a Familiar Site
After years of discussion, planning and debate, the former police station site in Christchurch is now taking shape as Hartstone by Aster — a new housing development that many locals will already have been watching closely.
🌿 Everton Nurseries Near Lymington Enters a New Chapter Under Local Ownership
Just a short drive from Christchurch, on the edge of the New Forest, Everton Nurseries is starting a new chapter. The much-loved garden centre, in the same family for over 100 years, is now under new ownership with Christchurch resident Paul Richards taking it on as part of his Your Local Garden Centre group.
Explore Christchurch This Easter on the Cultural Trail
Are you thinking of getting out and about this Easter and learning a little about the heritage of our wonderful town? The Christchurch Cultural Trail is the perfect way to do it.
Hidden Gem Opens Above Christchurch Priory – Have You Discovered It Yet?
Tucked high above the historic Christchurch Priory is one of the town's most fascinating – and often overlooked – hidden gems. The St Michael's Loft Museum sits in a remarkable 15th-century room above the Lady Chapel, now open again for visitors.
Christchurch Carnival 2026 Returns for Three Days of Summer Celebration
Christchurch Carnival is back this August for three fantastic days of live music, colourful processions, family entertainment and community spirit. Mark your calendars for 14th–16th August 2026.
✉️ New Post Office Officially Opens in Christchurch Town Centre
The new Post Office has officially opened its doors at its permanent home inside Premier on Church Street, with Mayor Viv Charrett cutting the ribbon to mark the occasion.
🌸 Easter Holidays in Christchurch – Here's What's On
The Easter holidays have officially started! Here's a roundup of what's happening locally over the next couple of weeks — from family activities and live theatre to markets, music and exhibitions.
Council backs plan to reduce roadwork disruption across BCP – welcome news for Christchurch
BCP Council has approved a Lane Rental Scheme that could charge utility companies up to £2,500 per day for working on busy roads at peak times — promising less disruption for Christchurch.
'BCP LIFE' Residents' Card Update — Local Businesses Invited to Get Involved
There has been a fresh update on the new 'BCP LIFE' Residents' Card, expected to launch this summer. The council has now confirmed local businesses will also be able to take part by offering their own discounts or special offers to cardholders.
A Visit to Highcliffe Community Association – A True Community Gem
We had the pleasure of visiting Highcliffe Community Association at Greystones House, where we were warmly welcomed by dedicated volunteers Janet and Mike. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this is far more than just a community centre — it truly feels like a thriving little village in its own right.
🏆 Christchurch's Glass Exchange Wins National Installation Award
Christchurch glazing specialists Glass Exchange have received national recognition after being named Installation of the Quarter winner (July–October 2025) by leading composite door manufacturer Rockdoor.
Christchurch Chamber of Trade & Commerce — Now on Christchurch Online
The Christchurch Chamber of Trade & Commerce now has a dedicated home right here on Christchurch Online — your go-to place to learn about membership, benefits and how to join.
Charity Rugby Match Set to Bring Christchurch Together for Elsie's Rose
Thomas Tripp Vets XV take on Christchurch Saxons RFC in a special charity rugby match at Chapel Gate on Sunday 22 March 2026, raising funds for Elsie's Rose – a charity supporting bereaved parents.
Improving Bus Reliability in Purewell — A Plan for Better Connections
Residents and community groups in Purewell have been pushing for improvements to local bus services, and a new plan outlines how reliability, frequency, and accessibility could be significantly enhanced.
New Specialist Early Years SEND Centre Opens in Christchurch
A brand new specialist Early Years SEND centre has officially opened in Christchurch, offering tailored support for young children aged 0–5 with special educational needs and disabilities.
Christchurch Businesses Shine at the 2026 Business Awards
Christchurch's business community was in the spotlight as the 2026 Christchurch Business Awards celebrated the people and organisations helping our town thrive.
Ryanair Launches Summer 2026 Schedule from Bournemouth Airport – Full Route List & What to Know Before You Book
Ryanair has officially launched its Summer 2026 schedule from Bournemouth Airport, with 20 routes including a brand-new Sicilian destination. Here's the full route list and some practical tips before you book.
Christchurch Play Areas Set for Repairs — But There's a Bigger Plan Behind It
Several Christchurch play areas have been confirmed for Phase 1 works under BCP Council's new long-term "Plan for Play" strategy — but this isn't just about fixing a swing here and there. It's part of a much bigger reset.
BCP Launches Bid for First-Ever UK Town of Culture 2028
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (could be in the running to become the UK’s first ever Town of Culture in 2028 — with a potential £3 million investment h...
Christchurch Food Festival Returns to the Quay this May
The Christchurch Food Festival is back for 2026, bringing three days of incredible food, live cooking demonstrations, craft drinks and live music to the stunning setting of Christchurch Quay from 23rd to 25th May.
Highcliffe Food & Arts Festival 2026 — A Brilliant Weekend on the South Coast
One of the south coast's most popular annual events returns this summer — the Highcliffe Food & Arts Festival transforms the high street into a vibrant celebration of local food, drink, art and live entertainment, and it's completely free to attend.
Christchurch Post Office Move Confirmed – Staying in the Heart of Town
The Post Office is staying in Christchurch town centre. Following public consultation, Post Office Ltd has officially approved plans to relocate from Saxon Square to 24 Church Street.
Now Open & Thriving: Eighteen Restaurant & Bar at the Historic Kings Arms Hotel
Christchurch's dining scene has well and truly levelled up — and judging by how packed it's been most evenings, locals have been quick to agree.
A New Family Charity Shop Is Opening in Christchurch
Home-Start Wessex is opening its first-ever family charity shop and support hub in the heart of Christchurch, at Unit 11, Saxon Square, on Thursday 12th February at midday.
Mudeford RNLI Volunteer Jake Harrison Qualifies as Helm
Fantastic news from Mudeford as Jake Harrison has officially qualified as Helm for the Mudeford Lifeboat, after years of dedicated volunteering with the RNLI crew since 2017.
Christchurch Tales & Ghosts: Walking the Line Between History and the Unexplained
Christchurch Tales & Ghosts, brought to town by Haunted New Forest, invites you to slow down, look closer, and listen to the stories that still linger after dark — with a new February date added due to popular demand.
Big Plans for Two Riversmeet as £1.8m Investment Is Proposed
BCP Council is proposing a £1.8 million investment at Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre, with plans for two brand-new purpose-built fitness studios aimed at boosting health, fitness and wellbeing across Christchurch.
A35 Christchurch Bypass Chaos – Locals and Businesses at Breaking Point
Patience across Christchurch is wearing very thin as the A35 bypass remains partly closed for resurfacing works, with some journeys taking up to an hour and a half and local businesses reporting devastating losses to trade.
Exciting Plans for a New M&S Foodhall in Christchurch
Marks & Spencer has announced plans to bring a brand-new Foodhall to Christchurch Retail Park on Bailey Drive, relocating from its current High Street store into a larger, modern space — with more choice, easier parking and 30+ new jobs.
⛳️ Golf Day at Iford Golf Centre – Supporting Young People in Need
Christchurch Online is pleased to share news of a fantastic upcoming charity event – the Step by Step Golf Day at Iford Golf Centre, taking place on Thursday 23rd October 2025. Sport, networking, and fundraising all while supporting young people facing homelessness.
Smugglers' Run: Explore Christchurch's Hidden Smuggling Past at Mudeford Quay
There's a brand-new reason to visit Mudeford Quay – and it's not just the crabbing and ice cream! 🦀🍦 The Smugglers' Run Trail has officially launched, taking locals and visitors on a theatrical and immersive journey through Christchurch's dramatic 18th-century smuggling history. 🏴☠️📜
Reimagining an Icon: The Christchurch Priory Masterplan Unveiled
The new Christchurch Priory Masterplan has been released – a bold and inspiring vision to protect and enhance one of the most treasured landmarks in Dorset. Here's what's planned and why it matters for our town. 🛕
Bridge Health & Wellbeing Shortlisted for BCP Business Awards 2025
Christchurch's very own Bridge Health & Wellbeing has been shortlisted for the prestigious BCP Business Awards 2025 – celebrating the region's very best businesses. We're rooting for them! 🌟
The Ship Returns to Christchurch – Opening This Saturday 31st May!
A new chapter for a well-loved spot — food, friends, and Sunday roasts await! The Ship is officially reopening this Saturday 31st May, and it's set to become a local favourite all over again. ⚓
Get Involved: Christchurch Residents Association Welcomes New Members!
Do you care about what's happening in Christchurch and want your voice heard? The CRA is inviting local residents to an upcoming community meeting on Thursday 29th May at Hall on the Hill, Marlow Drive.
Gold Medal Glory for Bridge Health & Wellbeing at Christchurch Business Awards 2025!
It's celebrations all round at Bridge Health & Wellbeing in Christchurch, as this brilliant local business has bagged GOLD in the Health, Beauty & Wellbeing category at this year's Christchurch Business Awards 2025!
Christchurch Gets Spicy! The Cheese & Chilli Festival Returns for 2025
After a record-breaking year in 2024, the legendary Cheese & Chilli Festival is back in Christchurch — celebrating its 11th anniversary on Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th May 2025. Whether you're a cheese connoisseur, a chilli fanatic, or just looking for a brilliant day out with the family, this festival is not to be missed!
Community Spirit in Action – Big Bargates Clean-Up Needs You!
Bargates in Christchurch is getting a well-deserved spring refresh — and the organisers are calling on local volunteers to help put the sparkle back into this much-loved part of town! Join the Big Bargates Clean-Up on Sunday 18th May 2025, 1pm–5pm.
The Smugglers Makes a Splash with a Blockbuster Opening Weekend in Purewell!
Christchurch has a brand-new reason to raise a glass! After weeks of anticipation, The Smugglers officially launched over the Bank Holiday weekend — and what a return it was. Locals turned out in droves to welcome the much-loved venue back to the community.
The Smugglers Opens with a Bang – BBQ Party Launches Christchurch's Newest Pub!
A brand-new name, a fresh new vibe — and a legendary location with plenty of stories to tell! The team behind The Smugglers are inviting Christchurch locals to celebrate in style on Thursday 1st May, as they throw open the doors for the very first time with an Opening BBQ Party.
Early Bird Tickets Fly Out – Local Excitement Builds for Xchurch Music Festival 2025
Christchurch is already buzzing with anticipation as early bird tickets for the Xchurch Music Festival 2025 have officially sold out! With over two months to go, this early milestone confirms what many locals already suspected — this year's event is shaping up to be the biggest and best festival Christchurch has ever seen.
One Man, Four Big Challenges – Dave Burns' Incredible Fundraising Journey!
Meet Dave Burns — charity champion, self-proclaimed "human tortoise", and all-round legend. Over the past year, Dave has well and truly pushed himself to the limit in a series of epic fundraising challenges, all in support of two brilliant charities close to his heart: Elsie's Rose and Helping Homeless Veterans.
Christchurch Landmark Reopens: The Kings Arms Unveils Stunning Refurb Under New Ownership
A much-loved local landmark has officially reopened its doors! The Kings Arms in Christchurch has undergone a major refurbishment and is now welcoming guests once again – with 20 newly refreshed bedrooms, two brand-new event spaces and an elegant new Champagne and Cocktail Bar: The Bar @ No.18.
Little Library, Big Heart! Highcliffe's Free Book Box is Bursting with Community Spirit
Tucked away on Nea Close in Highcliffe, there's a magical little spot that's making a huge difference — it's the Highcliffe Free Little Library! This colourful community book box is open daily and loved by locals and visitors alike.
Adventure Awaits This Easter at Avon Tyrrell!
Looking for exciting things to do with the kids this Easter holiday? Just a short drive from Christchurch, Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Centre is the perfect place to get outside, get active, and have an unforgettable time in nature!
Flipping Brilliant! Christchurch Pancake Race Raises £140 for Local Charity
There was laughter, cheering and just a little bit of competitive spirit in the air as the Great Pancake Race took over the high street once again! Local businesses battled it out — armed with frying pans and pancakes — in this much-loved annual event organised by Christchurch BID.
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