Ideal for smuggling

The tip of Haven Spit beyond Haven House presents a splendid view of Christchurch Harbour. At high tide this inland bay has the appearance of a fine haven, yet other than a few narrow channels it is so shallow that at low tide all vessels become grounded on the mud.

The haven is separated from the sea on its southern edge by Hengistbury Head, where Warren Hill offers clear views in all directions, making it an excellent lookout point - why not go and see for yourself?

Much of the local sea-coast is comprised of high sandy cliffs, but in rare places streams have cut deep ravines known hereabouts as chines or bunnys. These offer a natural path from the shore – ideal for smuggling.

Along the coast to the west there was barely a house until Poole, some 14 miles away across the wild Bourne Heath. One exception was Decoy Pond House, a lonely gamekeeper’s lodge near the mouth of the Bourne stream. It was a known haunt of smugglers.

The main channel through the Harbour first runs towards Hengistbury Head before turning northwards between the mudbanks to reach Christchurch, where there is a small beach for unloading cargo.

The Priory church tower, a landmark from both land and sea, can be seen beyond the Stanpit marshes.

On the edge of the Harbour directly north of Haven Spit is the hamlet of Mudeford, where there is a farm but otherwise it is mainly the home of fishermen. Inland from Mudeford there is little but farmland until the open wildness of the Forest.

The lesser road from Mudeford to Christchurch skirts the northern edge of the Harbour. Midway between the two on the fringe of the marshes is the hamlet of Stanpit, which was for many years my home.

Did you know?

In most years the Christchurch Harbour Ornithological Group (CHOG) have recorded over 220 species of birds in Christchurch Harbour.

You can listen to the audio track for this trail spot below, or read the audio transcript.