Local area

The Greenhouse Christian Centre is situated in the middle of a leafy residential area between Poole and Bournemouth on the Dorset south coast, just a few minutes from 13 miles of sandy beaches. Explore nature reserve Brownsea Island, famous Blue Flag beaches such as Sandbanks, iconic Lulworth Cove and historic Corfe Castle. The Greenhouse is also within easy reach of incredible Jurassic Coast World Heritage Sites including Swanage, Durdle Door and Old Harry Rocks. 

Treasures on your doorstep

• Sandbanks beach – 1 mile – 20 minute bus ride
• Westbourne – ½ mile –  10 minute walk
• Historic Poole Quay – 4½ miles – 15 minute drive
• Bournemouth Pier – 2 miles – 10 minute drive / 20 minute bus ride
• The Isle of Purbeck – 7 miles – 30 minute drive
• Jurassic Coast (Swanage) – 7 miles – 30 minute drive
• Brownsea Island – 1½ miles – 15 minutes via ferry
• Corfe Castle – 12 miles – 30 minute drive / 1½ hours bus ride

Poole and Bournemouth

Historic Poole is the gateway to the Purbecks while holiday favourite Bournemouth is home to a world famous pier, international airshow and seaside fun. Go a few miles west and you’re in another world on the Jurassic Coast, surely amongst the greatest coastal sections on Earth. England’s only natural World Heritage Site includes Swanage, Durdle Door and Old Harry Rocks.

Sandbanks

With exceptionally high standards and a record-breaking run of 35 years as a Blue Flag beach, the ‘millionaires row’ peninsula offers soft golden sands, raked and cleaned all year round. Sandbanks is safe for all and a treasure of the south coast. Tired of the city? You need to be here!

Brownsea Island

The birthplace of Guiding and Scouting, Brownsea is the largest of the islands in Poole Harbour. The first record of inhabitants dates back to the 9th century, when a small chapel and hermitage were built by monks. Today, areas of woodland and heath, with a wide variety of wildlife (including red squirrels), are open to the public via a short boat trip across the harbour from Poole Quay.

Branksome Park Woods

The Greenhouse is situated in the heart of Branksome Park. It’s a 5 minute walk from our front door through the woods and winding paths of the Chines down to Branksome Beach – a beautiful walk, perfect for reflecting and enjoying nature. If you walk from Branksome Beach all the way to Sandbanks, which takes around 25 minutes, you’ll be rewarded with views of the Isle of Wight, glorious sands and a selection of beachside cafés from which to take it all in.

Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle is one of Britain’s most iconic and evocative survivors of the English Civil War. This ancient, atmospheric ruin is what remains of the Castle, built in the 11th century. Solidly built from local stone, the ruin stands over the village of the same name where cosy pubs and cream teas are the order of the day. With commanding views of the countryside and the coastline, this is one sight not to be missed on your visit to Dorset. The castle has an on-site café and restaurant, making it a great day out. The drive to Corfe Castle is 30 minutes, or 1½ hours by bus from The Greenhouse.

Durdle Door

Timeless, majestic, inspirational, dramatic. Whatever words you use, no one can fail to be moved by the crash of tireless waves against vertical limestone cliffs overlooking the world famous arch. One of Dorset’s most photographed and iconic landmarks, Durdle Door is part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and an extremely popular beauty spot, with direct access to the South West Coast Path. A must for nature lovers, scientists and the poets amongst us – great for hikes, swimming or a picnic.