Christchurch, The Castle 1900

Photo ref: 45050

More about this scene

This was a former royal manor granted by Henry I to his cousin Richard de Redvers in 1100, who raised the first castle on the site, building a motte 27ft high. The hall, seen here, dates from 1160-80. Its east side fronts the river, and thus forms a part of the curtain wall; as we can see, the lower windows are looped for defence. Even though Christchurch saw little action during the English Civil War, the castle was ordered to be demolished. In May 1650 further slighting was ordered, and in the following November the Governor of Southampton was ordered to oversee the work.

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A Selection of Memories from Christchurch

For many years now, we've been inviting visitors to our website to add their own memories to share their experiences of life as it was, prompted by the photographs in our archive. Here are some from Christchurch

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Fishing & Folk Clubs

During the mid '70's I spent many happy school holidays in Christchurch. My brother, Colin, worked at the MoD base (Signals Research & Development) nearby. He had lodgings with a Mrs Alison in the town. There was a direct coach route from where I lived in Somerset at the time. Whilst he was at work, the days were my own. A friend of his lent me his 10 speed racer (luxury at the time) & I would ...see more

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Added 04 April 2019

The Ferryman Edward Gregory

The Ferryman in this photo of Blackwater Ferry is my two times great grandfather; Edward Gregory. Former Hampshire County Police Constable, Edward took over the running of the Ferry and the Tea Rooms (it used to sell beer too) on his retirement from the Police force, along with his wife Jane. The Ferry was an important quick route into Bournemouth, via Holdenhurst.