Christchurch - Dorset: The Town That Is Founded In Iron

Christchurch - Dorset is beautifully located between two rivers, the Avon and the Stour. This spot has afforded that beyond the Iron Age men have set down roots and inhabited this land. Now with its charm and lovely location it draws tourists who wish to see the history firsthand and retirees who wish to live in a quaint town such as this.

Christchurch got this name based on a miracle that occurred at the Christchurch Priory. The workers that were building the church and had a beam that was not long enough so they called off work for the night and by morning there was a board of the proper length in its place. This instigated the belief that Jesus had created a miracle because he was a carpenter. That is how the name was given.

This structure is miraculous because it is the largest church in England at more than three hundred feet in length. Since historically a church has been built on this space for over eight hundred years you have some powerful energy. The church has three different styles of Gothic architecture and has utilized the Saxon heritage in the building and the street s that surrounds it. All this adds to the pull of this church.

The Saxons left their mark on this town and its buildings. The town was first called Twyneham by them which means between two rivers. The harbor was the draw for the Saxons and accomplished the feat of establishing the first trade routes between Britain and other foreign places.

A perfect example of Saxon influence is the Christchurch Mill. This mill still works and you can watch how the corn was ground to provide the town. The building was well constructed as this mill worked up until the early twentieth century. The significance of this mill is the fact that it drew water from one river and deposited in the other. To see the mill shows you the amazing adaption the people from past times made.

At Hengistbury Head you find a locale where the earliest people found home. They began here because of the ease of the location and they could develop one of the first ports. But this place now has not only historical impact but scientific as well. These lowlands and the Stanpit Marshes are protected and studied for the impact they are making on the coastline and particularly the migratory bird patterns.

While history prevails in this area a relative newcomer is Highcliffe Castle. Built in the nineteenth century it was a classic example of romantic architecture. But with its views and grounds fashioned by the famous Capability Brown it strikes a chord and affords you day lingering in gardens and fantasizing throughout the rooms.

The people that have lived and built here are immersed in the culture of Christchurch - Dorset. But the locale on the rivers and the chance to enjoy what others have created before leaves you feeling fulfilled and engaged. This is a perfect balance for a holiday and a town.