About us
Our Story
Hengistbury Head Outdoors (HHO) is a local, community-led charity with a big ambition –to breathe new life into the beloved activity centre at Hengistbury Head.
Opened in 1964 as the Marine Training Centre and then as Hengistbury Head Outdoor Education Centre. The centre was a thriving hub for schools, groups, and nature lovers, hosting 75 schools, 15,000 school sessions, and 5,000 public sessions each year. Set within a protected Site of Special Scientific Interest beside Christchurch Harbour, it brought people together for learning, activities, and community life.
After decades without investment and the impact of COVID-19, the centre closed in 2020 and fell into disrepair. We have now taken ownership with a 99-year lease, and have renovated the site to re-open this year.
Our Vision
To transform this stunning natural site into an inspiring community destination. A place where everyone, of all ages and backgrounds, can connect with nature, enjoy outdoor adventures, and thrive in body and mind.
It will:
- Be inclusive and accessible for everyone
- Offer both land-based and water-based activities
- Provide education, development and training
- Support both physical and mental wellbeing
- Respect and nourish our unique natural environment
- Be financially sustainable
Our Values:
The ACTIVE compass
A
Access.
We believe everyone should have barrier-free access to outdoor learning and nature, regardless of background, ability, or experience.
C
Community
We build strong, local connections that nurture trust, belonging, and a shared sense of purpose in the natural world.
T
Trust & Safety
Water safety and personal wellbeing are at the core of our activities: we create safe, supported spaces where people can learn, grow, and explore confidently.
I
Inclusion
We actively welcome all voices and perspectives, designing programs that reflect diverse needs and promote equity in every experience.
V
Vitality
We promote physical and mental wellbeing through meaningful, nature-based activities that support lifelong health and happiness.
E
Environment
We care deeply for our coastal and natural surroundings, protecting the landscape today, to ensure its longevity for tomorrow.
Our Purpose
Why we exist
To protect and sustain Hengistbury Head Outdoors as a community-owned well-being hub. Connecting people to nature through accessible land and water-based activities, improving health, learning and belonging for generations to come.
Our Promise
What you experience
A welcoming community space where everyone can connect with each other and experience nature on land and on water. Where any one of all abilities can enjoy outdoor adventures, wellness activities, and thrive in body and mind.
Friend of HHO Membership
Join a growing community of people connecting with nature, getting active, and bringing this extraordinary place to life.
Who are we?
We are a group of passionate, local volunteers who have stepped up to save this precious place.
Through public meetings, widespread consultation and huge local support, Hengistbury Head Outdoors Ltd (HHO) was formed, as a Community Benefit Society (CBS), recognised as a charity by HMRC. In February 2025, we secured a 99-year lease with BCP Council to take over and manage the site.
Since then, we’ve brought together a skilled Board of Directors, a group of trusted advisors, and over 1200 community members – and have already secured more than £700k in funding to support the centre’s restoration.
Explainer
What is a Community Benefit Society?
HHO Community Benefit Society has been established to include creating a wide society membership (member shares) from the local community and local organisations who support the objects of the Society. We manage the member society, through the issuance of member shares.
Where are we?
HHO sits at the heart of a stunning protected Site of Special Scientific Interest and nature reserve beside Christchurch Harbour. The Harbour is home to many activities, clubs and associations, including sailing, rowing, SUP, swimming, running, birdwatching, hiking, and a poetry club and historical society.
Please use the form below to get in touch with us, we will respond as soon as we can. - Thank you
Contact us
E-mail: info@hengistbury.org
Centre Address:
Hengistbury Head Outdoors, Hengistbury Head, Broadway, Bournemouth, BH6 4EN,
Society Address:
HHO c/o 20 Sandy Plot,
Burton, Christchurch. BH23 7NH.
Call us on: 01202 40 37 37