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  • Captains Retreat - Dorset - 934482 - photo 1
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Captains Retreat

(Ref. 934482)

Christchurch, Dorset Show on map

4.7

Sykes rating

  • 4 Guests

  • 2 Bedrooms

  • 2 Bathrooms

  • Pets No

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Garden / Patio
  • Pub/shop < 1 mile
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • comfortable (32)
  • location (28)
  • lovely (26)
  • clean (25)
  • retreat (23)
  • stay (22)

65 Customer Reviews

  • "A lovely clean and cosy cottage."

    Only down side for us was the bed in main bedroom , it would have been much better to have had at least a king sized bed with a firmer mattress. Otherwise a great stay.

    Reviewed by L4.4Sep 2023

  • "Another good stay at Captains Retreat."

    House was very clean and tidy, beds and seating very comfortable. Plenty of cutlery and plates etc. Instructions for kitchen appliances in drawers if required. Clothes drying racks on kitchen radiator plus an outside line attached to the shed. Small garden is now completely decked over and has garden chairs ( cushions in shed ) and table .Walk to river front is just a few minutes away, so is the bus stop if needed. High street shops are not far either. Beaches are around fifteen minutes drive. Children’s playground just around the corner opposite the river. Interesting to watch the nearby rowing club in the mornings and there is a small ferry boat linking this area with Wick on the opposite side of the river during season. Two allocated private parking bays directly outside the house in private road. Neighbours quiet and friendly.

    Reviewed by John5.0Sep 2023

  • "Lovely place to stay, convenient for all local amenities with the benefit of 2 parking spaces."

    Reviewed by Tina4.7Jul 2023

  • "This is a lovely, comfortable holiday cottage, perfectly situated to explore the surrounding area."

    A short walk to the town and quay area and not far to drive to get to other towns on the coast or into the New Forest. Lots to see and lots of lovely walks.

    Reviewed by Paula4.7Jun 2023

  • "Nice property ,would like to have had a rubber bath mat found it slippery when in the shower also no hand rails for getting out of bath ."

    no coat hooks in the rear bathroom to hang dressing gowns Would have been nice to have a information folder with phone numbers for local doctors and hospital ,eating places ,local places of interest ,We had a problem with blocked toilet it turned out to be in the main pipe line and was dealt with instantly ,thank you .

    Reviewed by Barbara5.0Jun 2023

  • "We had a lovely week at Captains Retreat, which was in an ideal location to explore Christchurch and the surrounding areas and in a quiet close."

    It was very clean and comfortable with a fully equipped kitchen/diner, and a furnished outdoor area. Communication with our friendly host was excellent and It was a perfect home from home. I would definitely recommend a stay there.

    Reviewed by Norma5.0Jun 2023

  • "A lovely comfortable property beautifully decorated in a quiet location and within close proximity to Christchurch with it's Priory, castle ruins and riverside walks."

    Reviewed by Stephen5.0May 2023

  • "Chose this property for its location as attending a local wedding and as travelling from a long distance we decided to stay the week to explore the area."

    Captains Retreat was welcoming, very clean , spacious and bright. It would have been helpful to have had instructions available on how to navigate the TV and Freeview channels and also the electric oven and grill, which took us a while to suss out.

    Reviewed by Klara3.8Apr 2023

  • "Our second visit to the house at this time of year."

    House is in a lovely location and overall we had an ok stay but I was extremely disappointed that the dishwasher was broken and there was no note to tell us, even though the owner and the cleaner were aware and still left a dishwasher tablet out like it was useable. House wasn’t very clean, kitchen especially and lots of cobwebs downstairs which we cleaned ourselves. Only half the spot light bulbs were working in the kitchen. Kettle is missing the filter so water pours out extremely quickly which was dangerous. Took a long time for water to drain away in shower, house needs a deep clean and maintenance issues need to be addressed. Also building work taking place at neighbouring property so woke up to early morning building work noises which is not ideal on holiday.

    Reviewed by Matthew2.5Mar 2023

  • "A second visit to Captains Retreat and we will go for a third."

    Reviewed by Richard4.4Mar 2023

  • "Had a lovely short break ,lovely comfortable cottage, spotlessly clean, and very well equipped."

    set in a lovely quiet cul de sac near the river. well situated for travelling to places in the area. would stay again if in the area.

    Reviewed by Carole5.0Feb 2023

  • "A third stay at Captains Retreat and it was wonderful again!"

    It's such a comfortable home away from home. And Christchurch is a perfect location for exploring, both near and far. We come without a car but the rail station and buses are in such close walking distance, as are the shops and restaurants, it is extremely convenient. There's so much history and environmental beauty to enjoy all around.

    Reviewed by Wendy4.7Nov 2022

  • "We loved Captains Retreat!"

    A lovely well equipped and furnished cottage and the location is fantastic with the river and town so close at hand. We had quite a few visits to the Captains Club which being just round the corner is so convenient and sat outside with the lovely river views. We definitely hope to return to Captains Retreat in the future.

    Reviewed by Raymond5.0Oct 2022

  • "The position of the house was perfect with 2 car parking spaces right outside"

    Reviewed by June1.3Aug 2022

  • "We have just spent a fabulous week staying at Captains Retreat."

    The house is situated in a quiet location but is easily accessible to the river front and town centre. There was ample room in the house for 4 adults, the beds are comfortable and the showers efficient. The house has a lovely sunny back garden, yet the inside remained cool during the recent heatwave. On arrival we found the key collection arrangement easy, the house was spotlessly clean and the kitchen well equipped. Christchurch has a great bus service and the Wick ferry, offering trips, was within a few hundred yards. We certainly plan to visit again some time in the future.

    Reviewed by Jennifer5.0Jul 2022

  • "Another nice stay at this lovely holiday home."

    Would like to mention that the back door is really hard to open and close. Think it needs attention. Would recommend.

    Reviewed by Valerie3.8Jun 2022

  • "This was a lovely property in the perfect position for exploring Christchurch and the surrounding area."

    As someone who enjoys cooking, the cooker was one of the best I have used. Really enjoyed our stay.

    Reviewed by Janet3.8May 2022

  • "Have stayed here before and it satisfied all expectations then as it did this time."

    Beautifully kept, absolutely clean and very comfortable. Excellent weather always helps but it is so convenient and being able to leave the car and use the buses was an extra bonus this time. Have booked again for next year.

    Reviewed by Gillian5.0Mar 2022

  • "Just back from a return visit to Captains Retreat."

    Easy to find and parking directly outside house is a definite plus for unpacking. Property was very clean tidy and comfortable having everything you would need including an electric fan heater in the living room if you just want to take the chill off the air in one room. River walk very close along with plenty of swans. Small ferry will take you across the river and interesting rowing club to watch on weekends with a bus route nearby.For children there is a playground very close. New Forest and beaches a short drive away and an easy walk into town for shops.

    Reviewed by John5.0Mar 2022

  • "We really enjoyed staying at Captains Retreat and hope to return."

    The house is beautifully situated near the river, and having easy parking was a real bonus. The property was spotless, warm and comfortable and the owners’ instructions were accurate and helpful. We would have appreciated at least the offer of a mid-stay clean (we were there for a fortnight), but this is a very minor point.

    Reviewed by Katherine5.0Feb 2022

  • "Captain’s Retreat is in an excellent location particularly as it has parking spaces outside."

    Easy to walk by the river or walk into Christchurch and convenient for going to Boscombe or Bournemouth. We have stayed there 4x and will be back.

    Reviewed by Peter4.4Feb 2022

  • "Excellent location, very clean, comfortable house."

    Would have liked a Christmas tree in the lounge but that is just a personal comment. Hopefully will be returning.

    Reviewed by L4.7Dec 2021

  • "Delightful property just a very short stroll from the river, the captains club and wick ferry."

    Plenty of seating in the lounge. Dinning table for 4 and lots of comfortable outside seating (we didn’t use as it was chilly). Kitchen well equipped. Would prefer a shower screen in bathroom rather than curtain but everything was lovely and clean. Bedrooms a fair size plenty of storage , great having both ensuite bathroom/shower room, as well as a large downstairs toilet. The owners were really helpful, great hosts. Definitely recommend and would love to stay again.

    Reviewed by Lucinda4.7Nov 2021

  • "We keep coming back!"

    Reviewed by Francis5.0Nov 2021

  • "This was our second visit to Captains Retreat."

    We were not disappointed the second time around. We did have a problem with the downstairs bathroom, but as soon as the owners were made aware of the problem, it was fixed the same day. Had a lovely week and would return for another week.

    Reviewed by Sharon5.0Oct 2021

  • "Very close to the quay and the town."

    Comfortable and clean Spacious for a 2 bedroom house.

    Reviewed by Sid5.0Sep 2021

  • "Lovely clean well equipped property in an excellent location."

    Reviewed by Stuart5.0Sep 2021

  • "We had a lovely staycation in Christchurch."

    Captains Retreat was beautifully clean and comfortable. The perfect place to stay to walk, explore and enjoy the near by river, restaurants and cafes, beaches and other attractions. We look forward to coming back again.

    Reviewed by Philippa5.0Jul 2021

  • "The property is very comfortable, extremely clean and in a good location, being close to the river and a short walk to the high street."

    We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and hope to return.

    Reviewed by Sandra5.0Jun 2021

  • "Perfect base for touring the area even had Netflix May return one day"

    Reviewed by Alan5.0Jun 2021

  • "We are returning visitors to Captains Retreat, as the house is very comfortable, and we enjoy the river walks which are just minutes away from the house."

    I would just like to mention that we missed having a washing line which we have used in the past, and also, that there were no washing machine instructions amongst the paperwork. Had to search for them online. We enjoyed our getaway, and would recommend this holiday home.

    Reviewed by Valerie4.7May 2021

  • "Wasn’t quite as near to the high street as we would have liked (we had someone with mobility problems) but it was very close to the river which was lovely."

    . We couldn’t find any maps and restaurant information and we had to hunt around for appliance instructions. In fact there were none for the washing machine. Overall a good property and we enjoyed the holiday.

    Reviewed by A J4.4Oct 2020

  • "A washing line in back garden should be reinstated."

    Very useful previous years, missed it this year. Toilet seat in downstairs toilet needs tightening, and all taps need new washers, as they drip even when taps turned off. Other than these niggles , very pleasant accommodation.

    Reviewed by Keith5.0Sep 2020

  • "We had a lovely time at The Captains Retreat."

    Parking is easy and directly outside. It is situated at very short distance to the local attractions, we would take a walk by the river most evenings which is 30seconds away. Everything was very clean and tidy when we arrived with all the necessary amenities and great Wi-fi connection. The outdoor furniture and patio area is lovely too. The owners were easy to contact if needed (I asked for restaurant recommendations and local places to visit with the kids). The only adjustments I would suggest is to maybe replace the tv remotes as they don’t work very well, and provide some thinner bedding for the children in the summer. Overall we had a fantastic time and really enjoyed our stay! :)

    Reviewed by Selina4.7Jul 2020

  • "Given the circumstances at the time we could almost have forgotten the Covid thing but it did limit the holiday."

    However, the convenience of the location and its proximity to the centre of Christchurch more than made up for it.

    Reviewed by Francis5.0Jul 2020

  • "Captains Retreat in Christchurch was a perfect place for my 'work-play' trip to the UK from Canada."

    I stayed a total of four weeks but it didn't take more than a few hours to feel completely at home in both the cottage and the town. The cottage is so welcoming and tidy, with all the amenities I needed and is very 'user friendly'; everything is where you would expect and works the way you want. It was cosy and comfortable for my weeks there in January and February. I was having a solo trip but clearly having two bedrooms each with an ensuite would be great for a family. After long days hiking it was wonderful to soak in the tub and then have a great sleep in a very comfortable bed. And part of the advantage of staying in a cottage is to make use of having your own kitchen and in this case the kitchen is bright and large, making it an added pleasure to be having meals 'at home' regularly. If I ever had any questions, the owner, Keith, was very prompt and helpful with replies and also had many great suggestions concerning local sites and restaurants. Christchurch is an amazing combination of history and convenience. Everything I needed on a daily basis was within 5-10 minutes on foot, all within a town that has done a fabulous job preserving its historical sites and making them accessible. And then there is the natural beauty - I explored the old parts of the town, the harbour, Hengistbury Head (three times!), and Stanpit marsh. I hiked through Mudeford and along Avon beach to Highcliffe Castle. I explored the Priory several times, including Evensong and organ recitals, and went to movies at the Regent Theatre. Walking to catch a bus or train was so easy and was something I did regularly to visit Bournemouth, Winchester, Purbeck and the New Forest - not having a car was no hindrance to exploring this beautiful part of England. This truly was a 'home away from home' for me and I am hoping that I can come back again to stay at Captains Retreat, perhaps in a warmer season so there would be the added bonus of enjoying the courtyard out back with the lovely outdoor furniture.

    Reviewed by Wendy5.0Jan 2020

  • "Welcoming and well presented pretty modern cottage."

    Walking distance to the pretty town of Christchurch and beautiful beach.

    Reviewed by Peter4.4Oct 2019

  • "Enjoyed our holiday every bit as much as we did last year, the house makes for a very comfortable stay."

    Well positioned as near to river for walks, shops and theatre on High street, buses for going further afield if you don't have a car . Overall a wonderful holiday .

    Reviewed by Keith5.0Sep 2019

  • "Just back from another visit to Captains Retreat."

    New rear garden decking makes the space more usable with good outdoor seating and table. Indoors the beds and chairs are very comfortable and we found the place to be very clean. Parking is just outside the front door which is very useful. Easy walk into town or park in one of the several car parks and the bus stops are close as well. River walk just around the corner with parks very near.plenty to do in town and very close to beaches and New Forest. Will return.

    Reviewed by John5.0Sep 2019

  • "There was extensive building work in progress next door."

    Work being carried in front and inside of the house using a circular sawing table and drilling into walls. A mechanical digger was being used in the back garden and a concrete foundation was made for an extension to the back of the house.The contractors told me they would be removing the back wall before extending. One of your main selling points for this property was the peaceful location and although house and garden were good it was hardly peaceful. This time Sykes cottages did not deliver value for money. I hope Sykes cottages take the appropriate action and inform customers renting this property in the near future.

    Reviewed by Michael4.4Aug 2019

  • "Captain's Retreat was very well equipped for our week's holiday in delightful Christchurch."

    with its many places to visit, eat and drink! In our experience, holiday accommodation is often much smaller in reality than the photographs would lead you to believe but in this case we felt the property was bigger which meant we were very comfortable. On arrival the house was clean and welcoming, with fresh milk, coffee and tea available. The property was well presented in a quiet street, with a lovely garden to relax in. The river, The Priory and the town are a short level walk away, with bigger supermarkets only a short drive if required. We very much enjoyed our holiday - thank you!

    Reviewed by Debbie5.0Jul 2019

  • "Prior to the holiday I contacted yourselves as I had concerns regarding building work next door, which was highlighted by a previous customer."

    You assured me that work would be complete prior to our stay on the 14th June. But on arrival: Scaffolding in situ front and back of next door, large skip in front view of lounge from where I sat. Drilling; sawing and hammering through day. Workers parking in our allocated parking space. Also: TV was extremely small my mother had to sit on kitchen chair in lounge to watch tennis... this could not be for long as she is disabled. TV extremely small and dated, hand controls did not work, changed batteries with no effect.. some evenings just turned the TV off as was unable to work it. Poor WIFI, very patchy and inconsistent ... unable to use tablets

    Reviewed by Michelle2.5Jun 2019

  • "This is our second visit to Captain's Retreat and this holiday was every bit as good as the first."

    It is in an excellent location, near the quay and the shops and restaurants. The cottage is very well equipped and spacious. The beds are comfy and having two ensuite bathrooms is the icing on the cake. We plan to return sometime.

    Reviewed by Christine5.0May 2019

  • "We have just had a lovely week at Captains Retreat."

    The cottage was well situated for all amenities local buses and eating places. It was very comfortable and met all expectations. It was nice to be contacted by the owner beforehand who sent us arrival details. However this stated arrival after 2pm but the cottage wasn’t ready until after 3pm. Another minor issue was although we always removed our shoes as requested we wondered if other people did this because the carpet in the lounge was rather stained. Despite this we will be looking to book again in the future.

    Reviewed by Ernest5.0May 2019

  • "Cottage was extremely well appointed, in exactly the right position for family visit and was suitable for elderly grandfather with own bathroom."

    Enjoyed patio in brief sunshine. Would recommend it and would look to being able to visit in the future and it become a regular rental.

    Reviewed by Gillian5.0Mar 2019

  • "Lovely, light and comfortable in every way."

    Truly a home from home and so convenient for walking into Christchurch for its many attractions. I heartily recommend this comfortable holiday home.

    Reviewed by Joanna5.0Mar 2019

  • "The cottage and its location were fabulous."

    .........both beautiful. I couldn't have asked for more. All the facilities you would expect were there but what was special was all the little caring thoughtful, touches......Great memories were made.

    Reviewed by Mary5.0Feb 2019

  • "Very comfortable holiday cottage and very convenient for all the amenities Christchurch had to offer."

    Situated in a good location for visits to Poole, Bournemouth, the New Forest, Lymington and the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu.

    Reviewed by Alan5.0Jan 2019

  • "Lovely property in a great location."

    Convenient for walking and driving to many locations on the coast. Well equipped and comfortable. Would be very happy to stay here again. Very disappointed with the new Sykes portal. Totally unsuitable for seniors who are less tech savvy and would prefer all the details printable on a single document.

    Reviewed by Carlos4.7Oct 2018

  • "Any problems were quickly dealt with by Jean, who was wonderful."

    The only way it could have been improved was the addition of an insulated teapot . We are the wrong generation to dunk a tea bag in hot water and call it a cup of tea !!! Apart from that minor hiccup the house, the garden area ,position near to everything from the river, the buses, the high street ,the Priory , little ferry, beautiful walks , was perfect. Would have no hesitation in recommending this house to everyone including people without a car as the buses are frequent, reliable and the drivers courteous. All these ingredients enabled us to have a really wonderful holiday.Thankyou

    Reviewed by K5.0Sep 2018

  • "Second time we have used this house."

    taken different friends this time and they were impressed. It's location is especially good for the town of Christchurch and The New Forrest Southampton and Portsmouth..

    Reviewed by Eileen5.0May 2018

  • "Milk and fruit juice very much appreciated."

    Paper hanks in every room - very useful.

    Reviewed by Jo5.0May 2018

  • "We really enjoyed our stay in this property as it is in a very convenient location for the lovely walk into town by the side of the river."

    The area around The Priory and the castle ruins are very peaceful. We also walked to Hengistbury Head - over the bridge and through the fields which is quite flat but can be wet under foot and is a fair distance. There is a visitor centre and cafe there and a large car park if you do not fancy the walk. Be aware that the Red House museum is closed on Mondays.

    Reviewed by Margaret4.7Mar 2018

  • "Very much enjoyed staying in this comfortable house."

    Particularly liked being able to leave the car in the allocated parking space and walk by the river into Christchurch. Very convenient for going to Hengistbury as well. We would certainly aim to go back to Captain’s Retreat one day.

    Reviewed by Peter4.8Feb 2018

  • "Enjoyed the property's location."

    Great for walking and bird spotting on Hengistbury Head, as well as easy access to restaurants and shops in Christchurch. Very clean, comfortable and well equipped cottage .Quiet peaceful location

    Reviewed by Alan4.6Jan 2018

  • "Beautiful house, in a fantastic location."

    Reviewed by Diane4.8Dec 2017

  • "This cottage was excellent value for the money paid."

    It was spacious, well equipped, clean and extremely comfortable. It is in an excellent location and the parking is good with your vehicle off the road - a point which I am always very concerned about. My friend and I are hoping to return to Christchurch next year and we certainly intend to try and re-book this cottage.

    Reviewed by Cynthia5.0Nov 2017

  • "Re-booked again this year after finding in 2016 Captains Retreat to be the perfect location for both walks along the harbour And into town and driving to surrounding locations."

    Quiet - comfortable - clean. What more do you want ?.

    Reviewed by Susan4.8Jun 2017

  • "Good accommodation, good location, very pleasant!"

    Reviewed by David4.4Mar 2017

  • "We couldn't find any fault with the property at all."

    It was very clean and comfortable. We would happily recommend it and very much look forward to staying there again.

    Reviewed by Susan5.0Mar 2017

  • "Brilliant cottage good location."

    Easy access to Portsmouth and Southampton. Lovely locations around to see. Had a great and would come back again.

    Reviewed by Eileen4.8Mar 2017

  • "Captains retreat was such a lovely place to stay ."

    It was home from home . So handy for walking into Christchurch . It was so clean and comfortable , didn't want to leave . Would definitely like to come back again

    Reviewed by Carol5.0Dec 2016

  • "Location for access by car to coast and forest is excellent."

    Walk to Hengistbury Head in one hour. Town centre ten minutes walk. Riverside three minutes away. The house is comfortable, warm and cosy. Parking for two cars outside front door. Situated in very quiet cul-de-sac. We would use this property again.

    Reviewed by Colin4.6Nov 2016

  • "It's hard to find fault with this property."

    The location is excellent too. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay - especially birdwatching on Stanpit Marsh and Hengistbury Head!

    Reviewed by Francis4.8Sep 2016

  • "We had a lovely week at the Captains Retreat ."

    The accommodation was very clean and comfortable and in a ideal location . The owners provided everything to make the stay a very good one. Would definitely recommend the Captains Retreat.

    Reviewed by Paul5.0Aug 2016

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Summary

  • Two bedrooms: 1 x double with en-suite shower, basin and WC, 1 x twin with en-suite bath, hand-held shower, basin and WC
  • Ground floor basin and WC
  • Kitchen with dining area
  • Sitting room with electric fire.
  • Gas central heating with electric fire
  • Electric oven, gas hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, 2 x TVs with Freeview, DVD, CD/radio, WiFi, selection of books and games
  • Fuel and power inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Allocated off road parking for 2 cars
  • Enclosed decked area with furniture
  • Sorry, no pets and no smoking
  • Shop and pub 5 mins walk.

The property

A tastefully furnished and well-equipped, mid-terrace holiday home, tucked away in a quiet residential cul-de-sac, a short stroll from the quayside in the lovely, historic Dorset town of Christchurch.

This charming cottage is an ideal base for families or friends with the Dorset coast within easy reach, as is the beautiful New Forest National Park.

Once you enter this lovely cottage you will find a pleasant and well-equipped kitchen/diner that has everything you need to create tasty treats for your group, and from here there’s a door leading out into a small, enclosed decked garden, which provides a great place to sit out with your morning coffee and plan the day’s activities.

Also on the ground floor is a cosy sitting room with electric fire, and there’s the convenience of a basin and WC on this floor too.

Upstairs, both bedrooms boast en-suite facilities, so there’s no queuing for the bathroom in the morning!

To the front there’s allocated parking so you can leave your car all day and wander the short distance into the town centre and treat yourselves to a meal and a tipple at any one of the numerous quality pubs and restaurants.

Enjoy exploring the old castle ruins and stunning priory, or just relax with an ice cream in the riverside park, where often bands play, and if you fancy a boat trip then take one of the regular ferries that gently chug their way up the River Stour.

Take the short Wick Ferry by the Captains Club Hotel and discover a lovely pathed walk through fields towards the famous Hengistbury Head, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, which boasts stunning coastal views.

Within reach are the golden sands of Mudeford and all the attractions of the vibrant seaside resort of Bournemouth.

This really is a superb Dorset holiday home to be enjoyed all year round.

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About the location

CHRISTCHURCH

Bournemouth 6 miles.

The attractive Dorset waterside town of Christchurch is situated on the estuaries of the Rivers Stour and Avon, where they come together to form a magnificent natural harbour. Christchurch is a real gem of a town, offering visitors a wonderful and diverse holiday experience. The town centre boasts an array of charming shops and quality restaurants, whilst the 11th century castle ruins and the glorious Medieval priory, the longest parish church in the country, are well worth visiting. No trip to Christchurch would be complete unless you have strolled down to the pretty quayside, where you can enjoy refreshments whilst watching the ever changing boating scene, or you may wish to take one of the regular boat trips along the peaceful River Stour. Take your buckets and spades to one of the gorgeous sandy beaches nearby, and enjoy a ferry trip across the mouth of the harbour from Mudeford Quay to the sandbank with its colourful array of little beach huts. Should you tire of all the local attractions you’ll find plenty to do in the nearby family-friendly resort of Bournemouth, or venture into the New Forest National Park, both just a short drive away. Alternatively head to the local beach at Southborne which has a promenade that takes you through to Boscombe and on to Bournemouth. The lovely waterside town of Christchurch offers visitors a delightful and interesting year round holiday destination.