Christchurch is dominated by The Priory and the view from the Quomps is
no exception, where ever you stand The Priory can be seen and heard, the
sound of those old bells when they ring out over the town bring a sense
of peace and tranquility to the area. The Quomps is nothing more than an
expanse of lush grass surrounded by a path which runs in places along the
edge of the river Stour. At the end furthest from the Priory is a play
area for children consisting of the usual swings etc but also a shallow
paddling pool which is exceptionally well maintained by the local council.
Old but passable public toilets sit on the landward side of the Quomps
about halfway between the play area and the Priory end.
At the Priory end is a small and expensive parking area, the band stand, river boat rides and the 2 cafe' restaurants. The car park in the summer will cost you £1.80 per 2 hours somewhat more than our other car parks. The band stand is used frequently during the summer, visit the Christchurch Borough website or Tourist Information for full details of activities that take place. River boat rides, hiring rowing and motor boats can be arranged here and the swans, ducks and pigeons all want feeding. On the latter most locals would rather you did not feed the birds but if you do be very weary of them they will quite easily rip the fingers off of a young hand and can be violent towards you when they are fighting for the food you are giving them.
As you may have guested if you have read any other pages of this site before
this one I do like my coffee and lunch out, here I am spoiled for choice,
The Old Mill Stream Tea Rooms serves lunch, coffee and ice cream. Outside
seating is available providing views of the river, the wild life and activities
on the river. My personal preference is the Boathouse, a little more up
market and perhaps more expensive but superb coffee, snacks and lunch's
as well as a full dinner menu, sat on the veranda the river views can not
be beaten. Of course a perfect afternoon can be spent sat on the grass
with a picnic while the children play on the swings etc. There is little
that beats such an afternoon by the river for both parents and children.
