About
Christchurch Castle and Norman House bring two different sides of medieval life together beside the river in the centre of Christchurch. The ruined keep occupies a steep mound, once the commanding heart of a much larger Norman castle. Nearby, the roofless Norman House preserves a rare example of a 12th-century lord's domestic accommodation, including its tall circular chimney. Probably built in the 1180s or 1190s, the riverside chamber block would have offered comfort as well as status. Visitors often enjoy the contrast between the elevated castle remains and the quieter setting around the house. The path at the base of the keep is suitable for buggies and wheelchairs, but reaching the top involves a steep climb. Dogs are welcome on leads. Use public parking in the town and continue to the ruins on foot.
Open in daylightFrom English Heritage's calendar
- Open any reasonable time in daylight
Opening times may change at short notice.
Open at reasonable times during daylight hours.
Separately organised yoga and meditation sessions may have charges; ordinary access to the ruins is free.
Ordinary access is free to everyone; no membership is required. Separate tours, events and parking may have charges.
Accessibility: A dirt path around the keep's base is suitable for buggies and wheelchairs. Reaching the keep involves a steep climb.
Parking: No EH car park. Charged public parking is nearby; the driving pin uses Christchurch Priory Car Park. Current public parking tariff is not confirmed.
Dogs: Dogs on leads are welcome at the castle and Norman House.
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