As the most easterly borough in all of Dorset, Christchurch enjoys a nice placement on the English Channel with a more than suitable harbor and a fantastic selection of amenities for tourists, making the city one of the foremost vacation spots in the county. Many new and old bars and pubs share spaces with each other down the various side streets, making the city a perfect blend of entertainment for people of all ages.
Lest you think that Christchurch is simply a drinking village for people who want to simply "get away from it all", keep in mind that the city is filled to the brim with other fascinating diversions that have nothing to do with pubs and everything to do with nature. The Christchurch Harbor, for instance, is an enormous salt marsh with a sizable sand bar at the entrance. This makes the harbor basically inaccessible unless you are on a small boat. Despite this, it is most definitely worth the trek if you wish to see some of the phenomenal sites that can only be witnessed on this most hallowed stretch of shore. The Stanpit Marshes are a perfect example of such sights. Now protected as a Local Nature Reserve, these marshes have a fascinating and incredible history that further complements their visual splendor. These reedy waterways were once the favourite locations of smugglers and pirates looking to bootleg rum, tobacco, and other questionable vices into England and beyond. Anybody with even the slightest interest in seedy activities would be missing out on the experience of a lifetime if they let a visit to Christchurch go by without first laying eyes on the home base of countless thieves and bootleggers. Even if you could care less about the wrong side of the tracks you will still likely be enthralled with the unique and moving scenery that abounds in this thankfully protected wetland.
There is more to enjoy in Christchurch than simply what is seen on the water, however. Many old and ancient buildings dot the landscape including some thatched huts from as far back as the 1300s. The Priory Church is also a huge draw and, as the longest parish church in England, it is as imposing as it is impressive. The fact of the matter is that Christchurch is like two phenomenal cities wrapped up into one. Most seaside towns only have great historical offerings on the waterways or vice versa. Christchurch is blessed enough to have a vast array of terrific attractions and fascinating relics both on the land and in the water. If you have never been to the beautiful town of Christchurch you should consider it for your next holiday. You will be given the opportunity to explore not one but two full-fledged towns, each with its own unique treasures. If you do decide on Christchurch for your vacation destination, make sure that you make reservations and plans as early as possible. This much sought-after paradise quickly gets booked up during the tourist season so it is important to be proactive when making arrangements to ensure that your stay is as enjoyable as possible.
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