Christchurch

Seaside suburbia meets ancient history where two rivers converge with the English Channel. Christchurch sits at this watery junction with a surprising amount going on for what feels like an oversized village that's spread itself a bit thin.

The town's crown jewel is definitely Highcliffe Castle, perched dramatically on clifftops overlooking the Solent. This Gothic Revival pile from the 1830s hosts regular exhibitions and events, though the real draw is those sweeping coastal views. Below, Highcliffe Beach stretches for miles - proper sandy stuff, not the usual Dorset pebbles, making it brilliant for families despite getting absolutely rammed in summer.

For something completely different, CW Aquariums offers an intimate look at marine life without the theme park crowds of bigger attractions. The Steamer Point Nature Reserve provides a lovely riverside walk where you might spot kingfishers if you're lucky and quiet.

Getting here couldn't be easier - Hinton Admiral station puts you within striking distance, though you'll want a car to make the most of the area. The New Forest sprawls northwards from here, offering endless heathland walks and wild ponies, while Bournemouth's livelier attractions are just twenty minutes east.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You're ideally placed for coastal walks, forest adventures, and quick trips to bigger towns when you fancy proper shops or restaurants. The area works brilliantly as a base - close enough to civilisation but far enough out to feel properly relaxed. Hoburne Naish and Shorefield Country Park both offer direct access to this stretch of coast, while the New Forest sites give you those famous woodland settings.