Christchurch Steamer Point

Steamer Point, a 24-acre cliff top designated local nature reserve, is situated next to Friars Cliff on the Dorset Coast, offering a unique blend of woodland, aquatic habitats, and a sandy beach below.

Steamer Point is located between Friar's Cliff and Highcliffe Castle, providing outstanding views from the cliff tops to the beach below and out over Hengistbury Head in one direction and the Isle of Wight in the other. The nature reserve is comprised of woodland and aquatic habitats, supporting a wide variety of flora and fauna. The site features trails through the woodland, two ponds, picnic areas with benches overlooking the sea, and an award-winning information point offering fun activities for children.

The site of the nature reserve was once part of the gardens and grounds of Highcliffe Castle, which was planted with exotic plants from around the world. In modern times, efforts have been made to replace exotic species with native plants and trees. The beach got its name, Steamer Point, from an old paddle steamer that was beached in an inlet on the beach around 1830, which was used as a site office for castle builders.

The sand and shingle beach below the cliffs is generally fairly quiet and remains largely undeveloped. At low tide, a good expanse of sand is exposed. The beach can be accessed either from Highcliffe Castle or by taking the mile-long path from Friar's Cliff Beach. For much of the length of the beach, a raised promenade runs along the base of the cliffs. The beach has been designated as an area for water sports.

There is no wheelchair access to the beach. Car parking is available at Seaway Ave. Dogs are welcome on this beach all year round but must be kept under control at all times. Highcliffe Castle and Friars Cliff beach are a short walk away. Friars Cliff is a sand and shingle beach with a cafe for refreshments, amenities including showers and toilets, and beach huts along the seafront.

Sand Shingle

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