A central part of Christchurch's history, and one of the longest parish churches in the country, Christchurch Priory is a physical monument to Christchurch's rich cultural and religious heritage.
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Dating from at least the middle of the 11th century, Christchurch Priory has a long, rich history, and is surrounded by myth. The 12th century legend of the miraculous beam describes a beam of the church being cut too short, however the next day, the beam was longer and fitted perfectly into place. Given one of the carpenters who worked on the church disappeared that day, it was believed that Jesus had intervened, and the town's name was changed from Twynham to Christchurch in honour of this event.
The Priory is open for visiting and private prayer between 10am and 5pm in the week and on Saturdays, and between 12pm and 4pm on Sundays. Pre-booked tours of the building are also available, including climbing its impressive tower and visiting the Bell Room, St Michael's Loft Museum, and 2 of the 3 Crypts.
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