Alresford

About

Alresford is a beautiful Georgian town on the outskirts of Winchester. Just 11 miles from the city, it is home to pastel-painted Georgian houses, independent shops and cafes, 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.

Known for producing watercress, the pretty town is surrounded by watercress beds and hosts the annual Watercress Festival, complete with food stalls, live music, and a watercress-eating competition each May. Alresford is also home to the Watercress Line (Mid Hants Railway), a heritage steam railway, so named because it used to transport the salad leaf out of town. The train line, which runs throughout the year, hosts themed events, such as Day Out with Thomas the Tank Engine and festive Steam Illuminations. 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.

Alresford is the perfect place for wandering, whether you choose to follow the Alresford Millennium & Alre Valley Trail, a self-guided trail about a mile long which links together footpaths around the town, amble down beautiful tree-lined Broad Street, which is full of interesting shops or walk alongside the river Alre, looking out for the Fulling Mill and Eel House along the way.

The town is known for having great places to eat and drink, from traditional tea rooms to all-day eateries and characterful pubs. Options include Michelin Bib Gourmand winner Pulpo Negro, brunch spot Josie’s, The Globe pub’s beer garden, which offers stunning views of Old Alresford Pond, and nearby Long Barn, where visitors can enjoy lunch surrounded by lavender.

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.