Alresford

About

Alresford is a beautiful Georgian town on the outskirts of Winchester.  Just 11 miles from the city, it is home to colour-washed Georgian houses, watercress farming, the picturesque River Alre and the beautiful Old Alresford Pond.  What you see today rose from the ashes of great fires in the 17th Century but many of the houses still retain their original 13th century cellars.

The town is now home to the Mid Hants Railway, known locally as the Watercress Line and the annual Watercress Festival in May.  It is the perfect place for wandering, whether you choose to follow the Alresford Millennium & Alre Valley Trail Trail, a self-guided trail about a mile long which links together footpaths around the town, or enjoy a wander around Old Alresford Pond looking out for some of the many visiting wetland birds.  Head down the beautiful tree-lined Broad Street which is full of interesting shops and hostelries or amble alongside the river Alre and look out for the Fulling Mill and Eel House along the way.

Despite its modest proportions, Alresford offers a surprising number of eateries - choose from a fine selection of old-fashioned pubs, smart bistros and traditional tea rooms. Make time to hop on board one of the powerful steam locomotives for the 10 mile trip to Alton, or simply take in the sights, sounds and smells of the superbly restored station.  

You can pick up a guide to all Winchester’s market towns from Winchester Visitor Information Centre or download it here. There is also an Alresford Map to help you find your way around.