Supporting Us

Highcliffe Castle is owned and operated by Christchurch Borough Council. Our initial building and refurbishment works were able to take place through investments by the Local Authority and grants from the Heritage Lottery Fund and English Heritage. The last phase of refurbishment was completed in 2008, opening up further rooms for use and providing full access to the ground floor, incorporating modern facilities to enable us to hold wedding receptions, banquets and events.

 

The upkeep, maintenance and good stewardship of the Castle is now funded by several means; an allocated budget from Christchurch Borough Council, admission charges, sales of gifts and produce in the Castle Gift Shop, events and exhibitions, and principally, through wedding ceremonies and receptions. We also rely on sponsorship, donations and our valuable Membership scheme. However, not all support comes in a financial form. We rely on a large volunteer workforce to enable us to open the doors!

 

There are several ways that you can support Highcliffe Castle.

 

Highcliffe Castle runs an annual Season Ticket scheme. From as little as £15.50* per year, you can enjoy unlimited admission** for 2 people for 12 months (subject to opening times). A great opportunity to come and look at our regularly changing exhibition galleries! Your Members’ Season Ticket also entitles you to discounted ticket prices for many of the concerts, theatre performances, events, talks and tours which take place throughout the year.

 

If you would like to become a Season Ticket Holder please click here to download an application form, or telephone the Castle on 01425 278807. You can send your completed forms with the appropriate payment to:

 

The Membership Officer

Highcliffe Castle

Rothesay Drive

Highcliffe

Dorset BH23 4LE

 

*The full cost of a Members’ Season Ticket is £19.00 if purchased during 2013. However, if you are a resident or business owner within the Borough of Christchurch you will receive a discount of £3.50 from this price

** Season Tickets are not valid on Antiques Fair weekends (2 per year)

 

There are eight paid members of full and part time staff at the Castle, complimented by a dedicated team of some 76 volunteers, and we are always looking to recruit new people to join the team.

 

Previous experience is not necessary as full training will be given in all areas. The value of the input from our volunteers cannot be understated, and the future of the Castle would be very uncertain without them!

 

There is essentially a family feel to the Castle – largely due to the fact that everyone works here because they want to!

 

If you think you could spare a few hours a week, and would like to volunteer at the Castle, please click here to download an application form

If you would like to make a financial donation to the up-keep and good stewardship of Highcliffe Castle, you can do so at the Castle by having a go at our “throw a coin” feature or by placing a donation in one of the donations boxes. You can also ask for a donations form, enclose a cheque made payable to Highcliffe Castle or your credit card details and post to:

 

Highcliffe Castle

Rothesay Drive

Highcliffe

Dorset BH23 4LE

 

 

We thank you for your interest and support of Highcliffe Castle