A handsome Georgian town, Alresford is the perfect place to spend a day. Ideal for gentle strolling, there is plenty to see in the town and by its picturesque riverside. Voted Country Life’s ‘Favourite Market Town’ in the South East, Alresford is known for its specialist shops, old-fashioned inn, smart bistros and traditional tea rooms. It is also known as the UK’s capital of watercress farming and as the home of the Mid-Hants Steam Railway – the Watercress Line. Why not spend a day in Alresford and enjoy our beautiful town?
Shopping
Elegant Alresford is awash with art galleries, specialist food stores, antiques and interiors shops as well as top-notch boutiques recommended by the likes of Vogue magazine, TV stars Trinny and Susannah and designer-to-the-stars Ben de Lisi. Jostling for attention are all the traditional shops you would expect to find in a small market town, including butchers, fishmonger and baker.
Long-stay parking is available at the station so take your time and browse to your heart’s content. And when you’re ready for a pit-stop, put down your bags and rest your feet at one of the town’s tempting array of cafes and tea rooms.
Hampshire Food and Drink
Watercress has made its mark on Alresford with acres of beds spanning the clear chalk stream river valleys surrounding the town. Don’t miss the annual Watercress Festival, held in the town each May at the start of the watercress season!
Try riding the Watercress Line, named in honour of its former role in transporting fresh watercress to London in days gone by. Salad leaves aside, Alresford offers lovers of other fine foods a surprising number of excellent eateries, many of which showcase the best of the region’s produce. Follow your tastebuds to the town for a complete gourmet experience!
Walks and Trails
Alresford’s beautiful riverside setting amidst rolling chalk downland makes it perfect walking territory for everyone from the casual post-pub-lunch stroller to the seasoned long-distance walker. Explore for yourself, or pick up a leaflet from outlets around the town.
The Alresford Visitor Guide
The Alresford Chamber of Commerce regularly publishes the Alresford Visitor Guide, highlighting the town for visitors and residents alike.