Highcliffe Castle

Highcliffe Castle has been described as arguably the most important surviving house of the Romantic and Picturesque style of architecture. It is a grade 1 listed building built mainly between 1831 and 1836 by Lord Stuart de Rothesay. The magnificent building, once lavishly furnished in the 18th century French style, remained a family home until the 1950’s. Whilst two fires destroyed the rich interiors in the 1960’s, the Castle’s renovated exterior is testimony to the remarkable skills of craftsmen and women who carried out a huge repair and conservation programme in the 1990’s.

Our team of knowledgeable room hosts will bring to life the detailed history of the building and its residents, amongst whom was Harry Gordon Selfridge. Mr Selfridge lived in the Castle between 1916 and 1922, and is buried with his wife and mother at St Mark’s churchyard just across the road from the Castle.

Behind the scenes guided tours last approximately one hour and provide access to the unrestored parts of the Castle, as well as the heritage rooms.

The beautiful grounds are perfect for a relaxing stroll or a family picnic on the lawns and there is direct access to both the wonderful sandy beach and the unspoilt nature reserve of nearby Steamer Point.

The Castle Kitchen Tearooms provide hot and cold drinks along with delicious snacks and homemade cakes.

Situated just 10 miles from Bournemouth and 3 miles from Christchurch, there is easy access by car and public transport.

Castle open from 17th March.
Full details can be found at www.highcliffecastle.co.uk