Friars Cliff Beach (Christchurch) Photo

Friars Cliff Beach from Steamer Point

This view is looking west from the cliff top at Steamer Point. It gets its name from the old paddle steamer that was beached here in about 1830, and used as a site office for the construction of Highcliffe Castle. Afterwards, the boat became a beach house for about 60 years but fell into disuse and dereliction at the turn of the 20th century. It has now given its name to Steamer Point Nature Reserve, further up the cliffs to the east.

© Mike Smith and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence