The local area - Highcliffe, Christchurch, and Mudeford

The White House is a charming Victorian house adjacent to the Highcliffe town and beach, the New Forest, and the historic town of Christchurch. 

Christchurch in Dorset, England lies at the confluence of the River Avon and River Stour, between Bournemouth and the New Forest. The Saxons knew Christchurch as Twynham - the place between the waters. The present name is taken from the great Norman priory church, which is the longest parish church in England, and is set alongside the Norman castle amidst a jumble of little streets with quaint shops and restaurants.   You could also try out the old stocks and possibly even the ducking stool which was the last one to be used in anger. If you find the Town Crier he might even tell you all about it!

 Delightful riverside walks lead on to Stanpit Marsh, an area of special interest for wildlife lovers, and Christchurch Harbour which is an important spot for migrating birds.  Christchurch also has a weekly (Monday) market held in Saxon Square and closer to The White House there is a Friday market at Highcliffe.   

The Highcliffe beach is protected by limestone rock groynes. They effectively retard coast erosion, and unlike some forms of sea-defences, they do not hinder public access to the sand beaches between them. Groynes of rock have long been used in the area and they were present near Highcliffe Castle in 1880 when Lady Waterford of the Castle had them put in place to turn the extended course of the Run outward.  The famous "Run" is where salmon are netted in their journeys from river to sea.

These beaches are 5 minutes walk from the White House and can also be accessed from the grounds of Highcliffe Castle.  The restored castle, originally built in 1835, is set in peaceful gardens and is an excellent place to relax and explore the historical exhibition of antiques.  

Nearby there is a fishing quay at Mudeford, known for its eighteenth century smuggling activities and battle with the Navy.   The beach shown in the picture was not always just a peaceful place for dog-walkers. Not being far across the Channel from France and being relatively sheltered and sandy it was once a favorite place for smuggling. In 1784 the Battle at Mudeford took place near the western end of the beach. This was between the Navy and smugglers and in spite of the skirmish, about 300 people were involved in getting the contraband away in fifty wagons. During the "battle" a naval sailing-master was killed, and as a later consequence a leading smuggler was hung and his body suspended in an iron cage on Haven Point.

Inland lies the beautiful New Forest.  We suggest you visit the official New Forest website for details on this green wonderland and its unique community. Click here to go there now.  

Click on the image to the right to go to the New Forest Council Website for further details.