Highcliffe Community Association

Highcliffe Community Association occupies Greystones House, a Grade II* listed building on Waterford Road, close to the seafront with glimpses across to the Isle of Wight. The structure dates back to Victorian times and serves as the base for a charity registered since the 1970s, focused on community engagement.

Originally established to coordinate local groups, it now oversees around 45 clubs that cater to diverse interests, from creative hobbies to physical challenges.

Among the offerings, members can join singing sessions or dance classes, which often fill the halls with music and movement. Card games and board games provide mental stimulation, while petanque and table tennis attract those keen on light competition.

Arts and crafts workshops encourage hands-on projects, and DIY groups tackle practical skills. Language learners meet regularly to practise French or Spanish, and literature circles discuss books over tea. For outdoor enthusiasts, rambling groups explore nearby paths, with gentler ambling options for varied fitness levels.

The centre also houses a library stocked with books, CDs, and jigsaws available for borrowing at minimal cost, adding a quiet corner for relaxation.

Events form a key part of the calendar, drawing people in for shared experiences. Quiz nights, sometimes paired with fish and chips, test knowledge in a lively atmosphere. Bingo sessions and film screenings happen monthly, though no movie is scheduled for December this year.

Barbecues in warmer months and discussion forums on local topics round out the programme, alongside occasional coach trips to places of interest. The association publishes a monthly newsletter to keep everyone informed about upcoming activities and announcements. Over the festive period, the building closes from 21 December to 4 January, allowing time for maintenance and rest.

Membership remains straightforward and inclusive, open to anyone regardless of age or ability, with an emphasis on volunteering to help run clubs or organise gatherings. The association encourages new ideas for activities, ensuring the programme evolves with community needs.

Highcliffe itself has earned recognition for its friendly vibe, named among Britain’s most welcoming neighbourhoods in recent years, which aligns with the association’s role in fostering connections. Online presence includes Facebook pages where updates and photos from events appear, helping to build a digital community alongside the in-person one.