Royal Arch Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole is a charitable Masonic organisation that has been serving local communities since 1780. Our mission is to promote the principles of Freemasonry which are based upon the three great principles of Brotherly love, Relief and Truth. Through our charitable activities we provide help and support to those in need, both within our communities and beyond. We have a strong focus on providing financial assistance to those who are disadvantaged or vulnerable and our members are proud to be part of an organisation that makes a difference in people’s lives. The history of Royal Arch Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole dates back to the 10th Century. The area was part of the Anglo-Saxon Kingdom of Wessex, and the first church in the area was built in 968AD. During the Norman Conquest, Christchurch Castle was built and soon afterwards a Benedictine Priory was established. This is where Royal Arch Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole began.
In 1545, Henry VIII appropriated all monasteries in England and Wales, including the Benedictine Priory at Christchurch. This led to the creation of a new town called ‘Bournemouth’ which included parts of both Christchurch and Poole. By 1780, Bournemouth had become a popular summer resort for wealthy families from London who wanted to escape the city’s smog and pollution.
In 1853, Royal Arch Bournemouth was founded with its emblem being a gold arch with ‘Royal’ written on it in black letters. Over time this symbol became synonymous with Bournemouth’s reputation as a fashionable seaside resort with luxurious hotels and villas.
Christchurch
Christchurch is one of the most scenic towns in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area. The town is filled with historic buildings, quaint streets and plenty of green spaces. One of the must-see attractions in Christchurch is the Priory Church, which was founded in 1094 AD and is one of the oldest churches in England. Another popular attraction is Highcliffe Castle, a 19th century manor house situated on a clifftop overlooking the sea. The castle offers stunning views of the coastline and is a great place to spend an afternoon exploring its grounds. For those looking for some outdoor activities, there are also plenty of beaches nearby such as Mudeford Quay or Highcliffe Beach where visitors can take part in activities like swimming, kayaking and windsurfing.
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