Live Like a Local: Hidden Gems in and around Christchurch
When you stay with Christchurch Bay Coastal Escapes our ‘luxury by the coast’ concept means you can experience more than just a great holiday property. Being locals ourselves, we know all the hidden gems in the area that are best for indulgence, escape, and relaxation. Here we look at five of our favourite exceptional experiences just waiting to be discovered.
Slomo Christchurch – hot and cold therapy with a view
Located in a quiet corner of a private boat yard in central Christchurch you’ll find the latest brainchild of ex radio 1 DJ and Camp Bestival Founder, Rob da Bank. Slomo Wellness is a Nordic-inspired wood-fired sauna with contrast therapy and cold-water plunge pools. Overlooking the rivers Avon & Stour it’s a space designed to offer relaxation and reconnection. With beach hut style changing rooms and parasol shaded lounging areas, it’s the perfect place to experience the benefits of hot and cold therapy. Join a communal session and you’re sure to meet other like-minded locals or book the whole thing for a private session all to yourself (max 10 people).
Sobo Silent Yoga – stillness by the sea
Described as ‘deeply immersive, fully transformative and joyful’, Silent Yoga UK offers silent yoga sessions every Saturday morning on Southbourne beach. With state-of the-art comfy headphones offering perfectly curated playlists and crystal-clear voices from instructors, you’ll be able to enjoy an outdoor yoga session with no distraction from the outside world. With the sand under your toes and views looking out to sea with the Isle of Wight and Purbecks in sight you’ll be transported to a place of calm and serenity!
Afterwards, grab a coffee and bite to eat and at Sobo beach café with its retro bus and tipi covered seating areas! The place is a real community hub allowing you to soak up a true sense of the local vibe in a very cool part of town!
Cocktails at The Library – sip in serious style!
It’s no surprise that this is the place to go for cocktails if you’re ‘in the know’ locally. Located in Southbourne just fifteen minutes from Mudeford, The Library is an upstairs hidden nook of the Larderhouse restaurant, founded by James Fowler who was awarded the 2014 World Class UK Bartender of the year! Here, both the restaurant and bar serve a pure passion for ingredients and in The Library is home to a collection of fine spirits just waiting to be crafted into seasonal tipples by their cocktail maestros! No week is ever the same as the offerings change based on seasonality, discoveries and inspiration but let’s just leave you with their Martini description: Boatyard double gin, Boatyard vodka, The Library vermouth blend (Cocchi americano and extra dry, Akashi Tai Sake, orange bitters). Yes, it is as good as it sounds!
RIB to The Hut – the sea route to lunch
Staying in Christchurch and Mudeford means you have some of the UK’s best boating areas right on your doorstep. With Bournemouth and Poole to the west and the Solent to the east there are numerous beautiful areas to explore from the water. H20 Powerboat Experience offers two-hour group boat trips (max 9 passengers) travelling out of Christchurch harbour passing Stanpit Marsh and Hengistbury Head. You’ll then either head out to The Needles to get up close to the Isle Of Wight. Or, ride along the coastline passing Sandbanks, Brownsea Island and Old Harry Rocks!
If your stay with us is for a special occasion, then how about planning an extra special treat. You can charter a RIB and enjoy your very own private day out. A popular option is to head out to The Needles, stopping at The Hut in Colwell Bay for lunch. Established in 2013, this once rustic beach bar has become a popular beach restaurant offering delicious food (with a focus on fish), a buzzing atmosphere and fun by the sea.
The Hatch Gallery – art that captures the coast
The olde world charm of Christchurch makes it the perfect place to while away a few hours as you explore its cobbled streets, centuries-old architecture and independent shops and cafes. Don’t miss The Hatch Gallery, where you’ll find an interesting collection of British contemporary art, sculpture, ceramics and handcrafted jewellery. Inside you may spot pieces by nationally and internationally recognised artists but also discover local and emerging artists (be sure to head upstairs to the Hatchling gallery dedicated to just this)! With a definite leaning towards a coastal theme, you may just pick up a beautiful reminder of a perfect holiday!
So, whether you're skimming across the Solent for seafood, slowing down with beachside yoga, or sipping cocktails in a quiet corner, Christchurch and the surrounding area offers a kind of luxury that’s all about the moment — authentic, local, and unhurried. It’s the holiday of your dreams, with the soul of a local stay.
If you’re planning your stay and would like personalised recommendations, just drop us a message. From tucked-away cafés to private chefs, we’re always happy to share our local favourites.
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