Hengistbury Head Outdoors: A Community Wellbeing Hub Reopening This Spring

Something very special is returning to Hengistbury Head this spring.

The much-loved former Marine Training Centre is being reborn as Hengistbury Head Outdoors (HHO): a community-owned wellbeing hub reconnecting people of all ages to nature on land and on water.

Now in the final phase of renovation, HHO has been brought to life by local people with the help of a UK Government Community Ownership Fund grant and a 99-year lease from Christchurch Council. Over £750,000 has already been raised, with 60+ community shareholders and more than 1,000 members and supporters backing the project.

A Hub for Health, Wellbeing, and Community

HHO will offer affordable, accessible activities for families, children, and older people, including watersports, outdoor learning, wellbeing sessions, and community gatherings. Designed to be inclusive and community-focused, any surplus revenue will be reinvested directly into the hub, supporting local programmes and environmental care.

“As a mum of a young daughter, I am so excited to see HHO come back to life,” says volunteer Charlie Mair. “It’s a chance for young people to experience nature, and for adults to enjoy wellbeing activities in our beautiful surroundings.”

Preview the Reborn Centre

Before its full reopening, the public is invited to explore HHO at Preview Open Days:

• Saturday 28 March: Family Day
• Sunday 29 March: Adults (18+)

Visitors can meet the team, try wellbeing tasters, and learn more about community shares and volunteering. 

Tickets and details: https://www.hengistbury.org/shop/Open-DaysTickets-p812836232/

Additionally, a Gala Fundraising Dinner which took place on 14th March will help complete the final phase of renovations.

Built by the Community, for the Community

HHO is a Community Benefit Society, meaning it is owned by the community, run for the community, and safeguarded for future generations. From floodlit halls with stunning views to waterside activity areas, it will be a year-round destination promoting physical activity, mental wellbeing, and social connection.

Mark Merritt, Chair of HHO, says:

“This is an extraordinary opportunity. Hengistbury Head Outdoors will be a place for health, wellbeing, and activity - on the water and on land - in harmony with nature. I truly believe this will be a joy for generations to come.”

Whether you’re seeking family activities in Christchurch, Dorset, nature-based wellbeing, or community-led outdoor experiences, Hengistbury Head Outdoors is set to become a must-visit destination this spring.

Find out more: https://www.hengistbury.org/