Christchurch Priory and Parish Church

Christchurch Priory and Parish Church is a historic building that has its roots in a monastery established before the Norman Conquest, which is mentioned in the Domesday Book. The current church was initiated by Ralph Flambard in the 11th and 12th centuries. Key elements from this period include the Crypts beneath the Presbytery and Transepts, the Transepts themselves (which have later windows added), the notable Norman turret at the northeastern corner of the North Transept, and the Nave. The Clerestory dates from the 13th century, while the Aisles were remodeled in the same century, and the large North Porch is also from this time. The Lady Chapel was built in the early 15th century and features a mid-15th century Reredos. The Chancel and its stalls are from the 15th century, and the West Tower was completed in the early 16th century. The Choir contains a fine mid-14th century Reredos. The church is home to numerous monuments and Chantry Chapels, including those of Margaret Pole, Countess of Salisbury, and her son Cardinal Pole, who later became Archbishop of Canterbury. There is also a memorial to the poet Shelley at the west end.

The buildings numbered 10 to 13 (consecutive) with their railings and wall, form a group with numbers 14 to 16 (consecutive) along with an associated wall, the Priory Church, the gates to the churchyard, a sundial, and the boundary walls to the churchyard and Garden of Remembrance.

Christchurch Priory serves as the focal point for several groups of buildings and is the most prominent feature in the distant view of the town.