A new trail at Mudeford Quay is shining a light on Christchurch’s 18th-century smuggling history.
Smugglers’ Run is a 1.2km self-led walk featuring sixteen illustrated signs telling the stories of notorious local smugglers.
The project was created by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council with Arts University Bournemouth. Students designed artwork for the signs and performed audio narration written by local tutor Alice Flynn.
In the 18th century, high taxes on goods such as tea, brandy and tobacco encouraged smuggling along the south coast. Christchurch’s tides and remote location made it a key landing point.
The trail introduces real figures including John Streeter, Isaac Gulliver, Hannah Seller and Lovey Warne. It follows hard-surfaced paths, starting and ending outside the Haven House Inn and Café, and is suitable for families, schools and groups.
Amanda Barrie from BCP Council said the trail “celebrates Christchurch’s unique heritage and showcases the incredible talent of our local students and historians.”
The project is fully funded through a UK Government grant and is also available digitally at explorebcp.co.uk/smugglers-run.
