Highcliffe Castle
Highcliffe Castle is perched on the cliff-edge of the south Dorset coast near the town of Christchurch. Owned by the local council, this architecturally stunning mansion overlooks the English Channel across to the Isle of Wight. For walkaholics, the estate also offers access to the Christchurch coastal path.
The original Highcliff Castle was designed in the 18th century by the eminent architect of the Regency period Robert Adam. It was inherited in the 1830s by the Scottish noble Lord Stuart de Rothsay, a man who did much to end the slave trade. Lord Stuart immediately set himself the task of remodelling Highcliff. Tons of Belgian stone were imported across from France, many taken from the ruined relics of churches demolished during the Napoleonic wars, and this lends the castle a distinctly French medieval style, complete with faux gothic entrance.
Two devastating fires in the 1960s left the palace a shell-like shadow of its former self. Fortunately, it was rescued by the local council of Christchurch who have begun a programme of sympathetic restoration. Their fascinating work is still ongoing. Art exhibitions are a regular feature in the castle, which also includes a gift shop and heritage centre.