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Walking and bike trails among a landscape of woodland pasture and open heathland. You'll almost certainly see some New Forest ponies, and if you're lucky you might glimpse fallow or red deer, or perhaps hear the song of a Dartford warbler. Just by the car park is a large sand dune for kids to roll down. Dogs must be kept on-lead.
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Hampshire Wildlife Trust
A group of disused gravel pits that have filled with water over time and now form a cluster of lakes over 160 ha. The reserve is a magnet for great flocks of migratory birds in winter (terns, lapwings, oystercatchers...), while in spring and summer dragonflies and wildflowers put on a display. Other resident birds include redpoll, brambling, kingfisher and bittern. 8 km of level paths are suitable for wheelchairs; the hides are also accessible. No dogs except guide dogs.
Worth a look if you're passing is this unusual thatched chapel with whitewashed mud walls and a gracefully crumbling churchyard. If the modern chapel next door is open, it may be possible to look inside.
There has been a church on-site for at least 1000 years, though the current building only dates from the 1850s. Look out for the 15th-century monumental brass, a matchstick model of the church made by air raid wardens while on fire watch in the 1940s, and a contemporary triptych depicting the two patron saints and a cross.
Grade II*-listed Presbyterian meeting house dating from 1727, now houses the municipal archives. A selection of artefacts is on permanent display, and the house hosts numerous events throughout the year, including concerts and art exhibitions.
Christchurch Angling Club
Just west of town, where the river Avon briefly splits into two courses. There are fast-flowing and calmer sections, as well as pools, holes and side streams.
Large collection of owls, hawks, falcons, eagles, and vultures, some of which take part in flying displays every day. There is also a small reptile house on site, which puts on occasional shows in the summer. Site can be difficult for wheelchairs. No dogs.