The Ducking Stool Christchurch
Completed April 2025
The Project
This site, where Ducking Stool Lane meets the River Avon in Christchurch, features an example of a ducking stool believed to be situated in the location of an original that once existed here.
The earliest documented reference to a ducking stool in Christchurch is recorded in the Borough Records, dating back to the mid-14th century.
It is a popular destination for visitors to explore and serves as a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the town, allowing people to enjoy nature along the riverbank.
Illustration by Maria Burns Illustration & Design
After consulting with residents, we have made several improvements to create a more welcoming and attractive site:
- Repaired the timber revetment
- Repaired the ducking stool
- Laid a lighter, more natural-coloured surface
- Updated the site interpretation
- Introduced sensory planting, including a crab apple tree
- Installed new bollards and road markings at the approach and entrance
The ducking stool in its original setting
The ducking stool in its original setting
Repairs were needed
Repairs were needed
The ducking stool has been repaired
The ducking stool has been repaired
New sensory planting and site interpretation
New sensory planting and site interpretation
Improvements to the approach and entrance
Improvements to the approach and entrance
The Ducking Stool is part of the wider Christchurch Cultural Trail:
This project is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, awarded to BCP Council.
Project details
Budget £9,500
Funding UK Shared Properity Fund (UKSPF)
Project Lead Barbara Uphoff, Landscape Architect, Environment, BCP Council
T. 01202 123123
E. greenspaces@bcpcouncil.gov.uk