Find the Best Christchurch Bed and Breakfast

The Dorset town of Christchurch, set at the point where the River Stour meets the River Avon, really does have it all. If you're struggling to decide between a seaside break or a countryside adventure, Christchurch might be just the ticket. The historic market town has its own achingly pretty harbour, it's a stone's throw from the vast New Forest National Park, and it's almost within walking distance of several long stretches of gorgeous golden-sand beach. If the sun's out, you could make a dash for the hiking trails in the park or take the kids down to splash around in the Solent and build castles in the sand. If the fickle British weather takes a turn for the worse, you could admire one of the castles, marvel at the seaside-inspired works in one of the galleries or simply dine out on some of freshest seafood in the county, right on the quay.

• Take your pick from the huge choice of B&Bs available for every budget
• Bring the kids on a bucket-and-spade holiday
• Enjoy personal touches you just wouldn't find in a hotel
• Save on expensive hotel rooms and spend on the attractions

Rural Boltholes, Riverfront Terraces and Splendid Seaside B&Bs, Christchurch

It doesn't matter whether you are coming for a family break by the sea, an outdoor adventure holiday or a romantic weekend getaway, the bed and breakfasts in Christchurch have always been the accommodation of choice for travellers. Maybe it's the diversity of properties or perhaps the friendly owners, who have been welcoming guests into their homes for decades. Perhaps it's the cost difference compared to a hotel, or that homely atmosphere you just can't find elsewhere. Whatever the reason, if you're sold on a B&B, the best place to start looking for your perfect accommodation match is Expedia, which lists every property, along with detailed descriptions and photos to help you make the right choice. All you need to do is search by date, budget and location, scan through the listings and book in just a few clicks. If you're on a budget, one of the traditional B&Bs with charmingly vintage decor will offer more than you'd expect for the price. Alternatively, you could nab one of the boutique B&Bs that have sprung up in recent years, whose immaculate service and coastal-inspired furnishings make for an unforgettable stay. If you're bringing the whole family, you could always opt for one of the properties along the coast, just a few minutes' drive from the town centre. Wherever you stay, you're always assured of a stress-free break when you book through Expedia.

Guestrooms come in all shapes and sizes – that's the beauty of staying in a bed and breakfast in Christchurch – but you'll find most come with all the modern conveniences that you might expect, like comfortable double beds, a TV on the wall and ensuite facilities. If you pick right, you could have views looking out over the harbour or across the beach and glistening ocean. Always take some time to speak with the owners, many of whom have grown up around Christchurch and can often recommend the best things to do and see nearby. Their invaluable advice will help you explore Christchurch like a local. Come daybreak, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast down in the dining room, where you can pick from full English fry-ups, toast and marmalade, or lighter options, like fruit and yogurt. If Christchurch doesn't sound right for you, how about a completely different type of break in the urban playground of Bristol?

It's Impossible to be Bored When you Stay at a B&B, Christchurch

What you do in Christchurch will most likely be dictated by the weather. During the hot West Country summers, most families head straight for the beach to cool off in the sea or work on their tan. There are more than 6 to choose from nearby, so you'll never be short of a place to pitch your parasol for the day. If you get a little restless, you could always learn a new water sport, like sea kayaking, or head to the hiking and biking trails in the New Forest National Park. There's no shortage of things to do with the kids, whatever their age. You can watch them smile from ear to ear as they clamber around at Watermans Adventure Park or Splashpark. There's history to discover, too, like Highcliffe Castle, a Grade I Listed property dating from the early 19th century, or the medieval Christchurch Priory, where you can climb the spiral stairs for incredible rooftop views. At the end of the day, score some tickets for one of the year-round plays and concerts at the Regent Centre. The perfect finish to a perfect day.