Friar's
Cliff
is a quieter than
nearby Avon Beach, the
beach is sandy and slightly stony.
Local info:
In the middle of the beach huts is an award-winning
cafe serving homemade produce.
Lifeguard cover in July to September.
The beach area at Steamer Point
(parallel to the wave wall) is designated for water
sports.
There is a tree lined cliff top
walk from Friarís Cliff beach to Highcliff
Castle (Steamer Point Nature
Reserve).
Behind the beach huts at Friar’s
Cliff is a concrete plinth on which once stood the
first British military communication satellite station.
On it was placed an aerial dish some 40 feet in diameter
which received and transmitted signals from the first
launched British military satellite.
Steamer Point (where the sea wall starts) is so named for being the site where
in 1829 a paddle steamer was pulled up into a gap in the cliff and wedged between
two trees. It was used as a habitation for many years.
Parking: Steamer Point car park: 169 spaces (4
for disabled), Postcode BH23 4TA
Managed by Christchurch Council
Tel: 01202 495070 Email
