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Art and culture

Christchurch has a flourishing arts and cultural scene and a wealth of local artists, performers and musicians are members of CADarts - Christchurch and District Arts Association, who produce an extensive diary of arts events which take place around the borough. The Hayloft Gallery in Wick Lane is run by CADarts and has changing exhibitions of pictures and prints by local artists.

The Regent Centre in the High Street has a diverse programme of professional music of all kinds, small to mid-scale touring theatres, film and dance and extensive use by ten local amateur companies representing approximately four hundred events. Regular changing exhibitions of arts and crafts are also on display in the foyer.

Highcliffe Castle, a beautiful grade 1 listed mansion in Highcliffe, has an extensive changing programme of art and craft exhibitions and numerous concerts, shows, events, demonstrations, workshops and talks.The Red House Museum and Gardensadjacent to the Priory Church not only tells the story of Christchurch's rich history but has its own gallery featuring special exhibitions of art, crafts, photography and local history.

Christchurch Priory has always been renowned for the quality of its wide range of musical concerts, weekly lunchtime recitals and floral and craft festivals which take place throughout the year. Place Mill, close to the Priory Church has a first-floor gallery which features changing exhibitions by local artists, a ground floor gift shop and displays of local memorabilia.

Christchurch also has a wide variety of festivals and events which take place throughout the borough including the Christchurch Food and Wine Festival, Christchurch Festival and the Christchurch Regatta and Carnival which celebrates its centenary this year. Details of these and other events can be obtained from the Christchurch Information Centre.