Harbour, Headland and History around Christchurch
18 people attending
2 places left
Join us to explore in and around Christchurch town and its glorious Harbour... including a little boat trip!
Heading into Christchurch, we'll walk through the town centre to the Priory. We'll then split up and have an hour and a bit to explore the town's attractions (including the 1150 Priory - free entry - and the town's pretty quaysides and town centre) and possibly have lunch as you wish.
Meeting up again, we'll head out to Stanspit Marsh (an SSSI / important nature reserve) and cross its meadows and then reach Mudeford, a fishing village with pretty harbour views.
From there, we will take the short ferry crossing (cost is £3 per adult, cash) from Mudeford Quay to Mudeford Spit, home of some famously expensive beach huts.
We then cross the corner of Hengistbury Head (another wildlife-filled SSSI), ascending Warren Hill and enjoying the views of the Isle of Wight and Poole Bay, before continuing along the Harbour path and along the River Stour back into Christchurch.
I will end the walk back in the town centre, where you can either walk on 10 minutes back to the station, or join us for a drink at one of the local pubs.
Dogs are welcome to join us on this event but we do ask the following: Please ensure you adhere to the Countryside Code at all times - see (Keeping Dogs Under Effective Control). If your dog is uncontrolled and strays in open land frightening other animals or livestock, the leader is supported by the OutdoorLads board of trustees to ask you to leave the event as this is not acceptable behaviour.
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Photos by @Anthony86
What to bring
For your comfort and safety please be prepared for the anticipated weather and the terrain of the walk - keep in mind the following:
Boots: Hiking boots that are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support, are important as soon as you encounter any mud. Cross trainers may suffice in good weather and flat routes.
Socks: Proper walking socks keep your feet dry, and help prevent blisters.
Walking trousers: (ideally water resistant) will be more comfortable than Jeans which are heavy and cold when wet. From April to October shorts are usually a better bet.
Waterproof over-trousers: essential in any significant rainfall. Breathable ones are best.
Layered clothing: allows you to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature. E.g. a base layer or a cotton T-Shirt; a mid layer like a micro fleece, or a rugby type thick shirt, and in cooler weather an outer layer consisting of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece.
Waterproof Jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather. You get what you pay for with these. Breathable fabrics are advisable.
Hat: essential in summer to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.
Small Rucksack: One that is comfortable to wear is essential so that you can use your arms freely. Place valuables in water proof bags inside.
Sunglassses: April- Sept: comfortable sunglasses enhance your pleasure and keep insects out of the eye
Water: even in winter one can loose a litre or more of fluid by perspiration. If you fail to make this up you'll get dehydrated which can lead to headaches and other problems. A hydration bladder is easier to use than bottled water, but higher maintenance.
Food: a packed lunch will be required unless otherwise stated. In addition carry energy bars or similar to counter 'sugar lows'.
Medicines: If you have allergies, are diabetic, or have minor ailments don't forget these!
Food & drink
We will have a reasonable length early lunchbreak in Christchurch to explore the town and get something to eat should you wish to - alternatively you can eat a packed lunch during this time.
Otherwise just bring snacks and water.