An historic Georgian town
THE
NEW ALRESFORD pocket guide
Places to visit • Shopping guide Eating out • country pubs • Beautiful walks
Introduction
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handsome Georgian town, Alresford (pronounced Allsford) 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 inns, 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?
Did you know?
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A brief history
Alresford’s clear chalk streams have attracted people for many centuries with evidence of Neolithic, Bronze Age, Iron Age and Roman occupation on numerous sites in the area. Henri de Blois, brother of King Stephen and Bishop of Winchester, is credited with the idea of building the Great Weir or dam and designing the There are actually tw original se o Alresfo town of Novum Forum, which ttlement rds, the of n o rt h o soon became New Alresford. He f the river Old Alresford to the and the to Alresford wn to the so died before the completion of uth. New of New is not as A yo lre u sf ng as its ord the project and Godfrey de Lucy, name su having b ggests, een estab his successor as bishop (1189lished as town by a new Bishop d 1204), finished Alresford’s e the Midd Lucy during le Ages. T-shaped town centre as we see it today.
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During the reign of Henry VIII, clothiers, dyers and tanners were recorded as living here and fulling and corn mills operated. A fine example of a 13th century fulling mill straddles the River Alre (sometimes spelt Arle). Follow the riverside walk to discover this pretty thatched and timber-framed building, now a private residence. The town’s history is punctuated with fires despite the abundance of water in the area. The buildings you see today rose from the ashes of the great fires of the 17th century. Watercress has always grown wild in the chalk streams and ditches in and around the town, and was probably picked and eaten by local people for centuries. It was far too perishable to be transported by horse and cart and so only became a commercial proposition when the railway arrived in the 1860s. You can still ride the Watercress Line today – 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.
For more information on Alresford’s fascinating past, visit www.alresford.org
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Events at a glance
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lresford provides plenty to see and do all year round but if you’re looking to discover the town’s true character, why not time your visit to coincide with one of its annual special events, offering everything from a criticallyacclaimed opera festival to a fun-packed celebration of our local salad leaf? Don’t forget, you can keep up to date with everything that’s happening in the town by clicking on www.alresford.org Watercress Festival (May) The UK’s capital of watercress farming plays host to the annual watercress festival each May. Feast your senses and your taste buds at the fabulous watercress-themed farmers’ market, meet the watercress farmers and tour the beds, or pick up a culinary tip or two by watching the celebrity chef cookery demonstrations on this wonderful day out for the whole family. www.watercressfestival.org
Grange Park Opera (June) Fast acquiring cult status, Grange Park Opera is staged in the crumbling splendour of one of the finest neo-classical buildings in Britain, Northington Grange, an early 19th century Greek revival house set in beautiful and unchanged countryside. Each performance includes a 100-minute interval when guests are invited to dine or picnic in the grounds. www.grangeparkopera.co.uk
Alresford Music Festival (June) The annual Alresford Music Festival provides the perfect platform for local musicians to perform alongside professionals and bring an entertaining day of fantastic live music of many styles for all ages. www.alresfordmusicfestival.com
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Events at a glance
Rebecca Corbett
Alresford Show (September) One of the region’s most important agricultural fairs, the Alresford Show promises everything from displays of horses, livestock, dogs and vintage farm machinery to exhibitions of rare-breed poultry, bee-keeping and ferret-racing! If you’re looking for an unusual gift, try the rural craft marquee for over 60 local handmade crafts including ceramics, jewellery, contemporary glass, knitwear and toys, or sniff out the finest local fare in the farm and produce tent. www.alresfordshow.co.uk
Alresford Fun Fair in Broad Street (October) For one night only, on the Thursday after the second Tuesday in October, Broad Street comes to life with a full-size fun fair, thanks to a charter granted by King John and later confirmed by Edward II. Originally a traditional market, the event has evolved into a fun fair over the years. Local legend has it that the right to hold the fair fails if it does not take place every year. www.alresford.org
Rotary Club Fireworks Display (November) Follow the torch-lit procession from Broad Street to Arlebury Park and join in with the ‘ooooohs’ and ‘aaaahs’ at Alresford’s annual fireworks display. www.alresford.org
Late Night Christmas Shopping (December) Offering more than just extended opening hours, Alresford’s late night Christmas shopping evening is a truly festive occasion. Browse the traditional fayre at the Christmas Market, enjoy the street entertainment, warm your cockles with a glass of mulled wine, or simply soak up the party atmosphere. Check our website for this year’s date. www.alresford.org
Market Day (Thursdays, all year round) Alresford small provisions market takes place in Broad Street on Thursdays. On the same morning, you can pick up homemade goodies at the Women’s Institute Country Market in the Community Centre. Sunday market – first Sunday of each month. www.towntrust.org.uk
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Walks & trails
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lresford’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. Most leaflets mentioned are available from outlets around the town, the Goods Shed information point at the Mid-Hants Railway, or from Winchester Tourist Information Centre. You can also check out the walking pages at www.alresford.org and www.hants. gov.uk/walking Millennium Trail and Arle Valley Trail If you want to find out more about Alresford’s history, inhabitants and wildlife, pick up a free copy of the Millennium Trail and Arle Valley Trail, two self-guided walks that link together footpaths with illustrated boards around the town. The Arle Valley Trail branches off the Millennium Trail, rejoining it about one and a half miles later. It lets you appreciate at closer hand Alresford’s idyllic countryside setting. The route also takes you past the Eel House, one of the last remaining buildings of its kind, and once used to trap young eels as they set out to breed. The Eel House is currently in need of major restoration work to save it from collapse. To find out how you can help, visit www.alresford.org
The Winchester Watercress Tour Pick and choose your stops from this free selfguided trail through the Itchen and Meon Valleys, the home of the watercress industry for many years. Take in scenic views of rivers, watercress beds and villages, with the opportunity to sample tasty local food along the way.
Itchen Valley Churches Trail This leaflet explores the landscape, history and local culture of the Itchen Valley and outlines self-guided trails for walkers and cyclists. It focuses on the architectural and historical identities of the unusual and varied styles of church along this pretty river valley.
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Walks & trails Wayfarers’ Walk More beautiful countryside is on offer along the 72-mile Wayfarers’ Walk, which follows some of the old tracks used by shepherds driving their animals to sheep fairs in Farnham and Alresford. For something more manageable, try any one of the five circular walks (between four and six miles long) signposted from the main route.
The Itchen Way Following the River Itchen from its source near Hinton Ampner all the way to the busy port of Southampton, the 27-mile Itchen Way takes you through Hampshire’s countryside at its very best. If you fancy a shorter stroll, try one of the individual circular walks that allow you to explore the river at a more leisurely pace. For more detailed information and maps go to www.eastleighramblers.hampshire.org. uk/ ItchenWay/Contents.htm
St Swithun’s Way The 34-mile St Swithun’s Way runs between Winchester and Farnham, weaving its way east through the picturesque Itchen Valley. From Farnham, the route continues to Canterbury as the North Downs Way National Trail. St Swithun’s Way waymarks are based on the shell, a common symbol of pilgrimage, and two croziers, representing St Swithun and St Thomas à Becket. A walker’s pack is available from Hampshire County Council Information Centres, or by calling 01962 870 500.
Other long-distance walking paths which pass close by to Alresford include the Clarendon Way, the South Downs Way and the Pilgrims’ Trail. More information on these can be found at www.hants.gov.uk/walking
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Where to visit
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lresford’s attractions are evident from the moment you arrive in the town. Colour-washed houses nestle alongside eye-catching specialist shops, whilst the clear chalk streams provide the perfect setting for scenic riverside walks. Delve a little deeper and you will find houses, churches and gardens to visit, as well as one of the country’s bestpreserved steam railways. 3 The Watercress Line
1 Hinton Ampner Garden Bramdean, near Alresford Tel: 01962 771 305
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Enjoy this magnificent 20th century garden which unites formal design with varied and informal plantings in pastel shades. Scented plants, unexpected vistas and fine topiary combine to provide enduring interest. Tea room. Gift shop. Open mid Marchend of October. 11am-5pm, closed Thursday & Friday. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
2 Historic Broad Street
The Railway Station, Alresford Tel: 01962 733 810
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The Mid Hants Railway is the perfect place to let off steam as you drift through 10 miles of stunning Hampshire countryside. Alresford Buffet has FREE WiFi. Check timetable online. www.watercressline.co.uk
4 Northington Grange Northington, near Alresford Tel: 01962 868 888
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Early 19th century neo-classical mansion. Exterior viewing only, home to Grange Park Opera in high summer. www.grangeparkopera.co.uk
5 Riverside Walk
A contender for the county’s most beautiful street, tree-lined Broad Street combines a feast of Georgian colour-washed buildings with interesting shops and hostelries, still following Bishop de Lucy’s medieval town plan. www.alresford.org
The riverside walk is a delight and, straddling the River Alre, you will see the thatched timber-framed Fulling Mill, built in the 13th century. Walk can be muddy in wet weather. www.alresford.org
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Where to visit 6 Old Alresford Pond
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Did you know?
The pretty nearby village of Cheriton was once the scene of a ferocious Civil War battle fought in1644.
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Formed in the 12th century as part of a project to dam the Alre stream, today it is home to wildfowl and otters. The sluices, called the 'shettles', have been recently restored and can be seen down the path to the right of The Globe or from the pub garden. It is said that this was a landing place for the Bishop of Winchester on his travels to and from his palace at Bishops Sutton. www.alresford.org
9 Gilbert White’s House & Garden & The Oates Collection The Wakes, High Street, Selborne Tel: 01420 511 275
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7 Jane Austen’s House Museum Chawton, near Alton Tel: 01420 83262
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Charming 18th century country house set in over 20 acres of gardens and parkland. Home of world famous naturalist Gilbert White and restored following his own journals and correspondence. Fascinating collection of Oates family memorabilia, extensively stocked shop and Tea Parlour. www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk
Avington Park, 10 Jane Austen spent the last eight years of her life in this house at Chawton. Visit us and let us tell you the story of Jane, her writing and her family. www.jane-austens-housemuseum.org.uk/
near Winchester
Tel: 01962 779 260
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8 St John’s Parish Church West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732 105
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The parish church of New Alresford stands on a site where Christian worship has continued since 1200. The church is here to serve the needs of Alresford and its visitors, and is open every day for prayer and for people to admire its mix of styles from the 11th century to the present. www.stjohnsalresford.org.uk
House open for guided tours and tea bar serving homemade cake and locally made ice cream: May-September Sundays, Bank Holiday Mondays and Mondays in August. Available for weddings, private and corporate parties, meetings and seminars. 2.30pm-5.30pm (last tour at 5pm). www.avingtonpark.co.uk THE new alresford pocket guide • 9
Where to shop
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legant 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 style gurus Trinny and Susannah and designerto-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 cafés and tea rooms. 11 Meka 42 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 733 242
13 Alresford P
Putting therapy back into retail. Bored of the High Street? For something different at an affordable price, Meka offers well designed and exciting clothes to suit women of all ages and sizes. www.mekaclothes.co.uk
12 Lavenders 19 Broad Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 733 894
Linen Company Livingstone House, 7–9 Broad Street, P Alresford Tel: 01962 734 221
A stylish new gift shop combined with a professional dry cleaners offering affordable and original products for bedrooms, bathrooms and beyond. • bedlinen • duvets • pillows • towels • gifts for giving or keeping www.alresfordlinenco.co.uk
Long Barn Growers 14
& Distillers
The Old Sheep Fair, Bishops Sutton Road, P Alresford Tel: 01962 738 684
The lavender shop with a difference. Ten years of infusion with the scent of lavender, we are told you can smell the shop from the top of Broad Street. But that’s not all – vintage style clothes, jewellery and interior accessories abound! www.lavendersalresford.co.uk
Visit our Long Barn set in three acres of lavender and English country landscaping. Enjoy a warm welcome at our seasonal plant nursery and shop. Open 7 days. Plants • Gardening accessories Gifts • Local foods www.long-barn.co.uk
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Where to shop 18 Moda Rosa 35 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 733 277
15 Hair Art 17 East Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 736 398 At Hair Art we have a holistic approach to your well-being. Using only Aveda organically sourced products which are sustainable. All our staff have been chosen for their skill and professionalism.
Bringing women’s designer fashion to the heart of Hampshire. Relaxed day, special occasion & evening wear by Armani Collezioni, Paddy Campbell, Milly, Paul Smith, Jenny Packham, Herve Leger, Halston Heritage, Nicole Farhi, Twenty 8 Twelve by Sienna Miller and many more. www.modarosa.co.uk
19 Hêtre 39 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 733 312 Step into this unique shop offering fabulous shoes, handbags and accessories. Anya Hindmarch, Emma Hope, Paul Smith, Rupert Sanderson, Pretty Ballerinas, Kate Spade and Van Peterson. Mon–Sat 9.30am–5.30pm. www.hetre.co.uk
Studio 49 16
Nail & Beauty Clinic
26 The Dean, Alresford Tel: 01962 738 683 A modern and relaxed salon offering an extensive and innovative range of beauty treatments to suit eveyone. Algotherm face and body, creative nails and microdermabrasion. Gift vouchers are available for that special gift.
Design Realities 20 52 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732 507
Natasha Thomas 17 Flowers
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22 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 733 200
A London-trained florist in Alresford offering a bespoke personal service using the freshest flowers bought daily from Covent Garden. www.natashathomasflowers.co.uk font: palatino light
A hidden gem at the bottom of West Street and a treasure trove of fine things for the home including handmade sofas and chairs, mirrors, rugs, lighting and unique accessories. We offer a specialist interior design consultancy and an extensive display of home furnishings. www.design-realities.co.uk THE new alresford pocket guide • 11
Map of New Alresford Page
Where to Visit
Hinton Ampner Garden 8 (15 mins by car) Historic Broad Street 8 The Watercress Line 8 Northington Grange 8 (15 mins by car) Riverside Walk 8 Old Alresford Pond 9 Jane Austen’s House 9 (20 mins by car) St John’s Parish Church 9 Gilbert White's House & Garden & The Oates Collecton (25 mins by car) 9 Avington Park 9 (15 mins by car)
Where to Shop
Meka Lavenders Alresford Linen Company Long Barn Growers & Distillers Hair Art Studio 49 Nail & Beauty Clinic Natasha Thomas Flowers Moda Rosa Hêtre Design Realities Sole Butchers Ragamuffin Mathesons Optometrists Alresford Gallery Eddolls Carpets Ltd. Simply Mee Spirit of the Andes Barnyard Natural Foods Hair Care Shop Alresford Gift Shop D Barker & Son Timothy J GIbbons Laurence Oxley Ltd The Naked Grape C E Evans & Son Paul Hellard & Company Alresford Cycles Ltd. Garth Owen Garden Centre Jaga Designs IVC
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The Globe on the Lake 18 The Courtyard Tearooms 18 Shapla Indian Cuisine 18 The Fox Inn (15 mins by car) 19 The Woolpack Country Inn 19 (15 mins by car) The Bell Hotel 19 The Horse & Groom 19
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Map of New Alresford
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48 The Chestnut Horse (15 mins by car) 49 Tiffin Tea Rooms 50 The Alresford Bangladeshi Restaurant
Where to Stay 51 Haygarth Bed & Breakfast (5 mins by car)
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Where to shop 24 Alresford Gallery
21 Sole Butchers 5 Broad Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 735 221
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36 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 735 286
Come and say hello to the local butcher and game dealer. Award winning watercress pork and ale sausages made from local produce. Award winning pies. Ready meals. A variety of game when in season. Local freshly baked cakes.
We exhibit contemporary, mainly figurative, paintings with sculpture, ceramics, glass and wood. Exhibitions change monthly with one-man, small group and two large mixed Summer and Christmas shows. www.alresfordgallery.co.uk
22 Ragamuffin
25 Eddolls Carpets Ltd.
2 Bakehouse Yard, West Street, Alresford P Tel: 01962 734 488
30 Broad Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 735 715
A beautiful children’s store with a wide range of clothing and accessories for children 0-12 years. We stock a lovely selection of wooden and soft toys too! Mon–Sat 9.30am–5pm. www.ragamuffin-uk.com
The choices of flooring is huge; so we start by agreeing what will work best for you. We then make sure that the project is handled with professionalism, top quality service and is fun! www.eddollscarpets.com
23 Matheson Optometrists 3 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732 336
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We are a friendly, professional group of practices established since 1984 specialising in dry eye treatments and providing comprehensive, high quality eye care services and products at competitive prices. www.matheson-optometrists.com 14 • THE new alresford pocket guide
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Where to shop Simply Mee 26 43 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 738 508
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29 The HairCare Shop 18 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 733 100 You will love the Simply Mee boutique in West Street. Your favourite brands at affordable prices – all under one roof – for ladies, men and children. Joules, White Stuff, Crew, Ichi, Jackpot and more. Jewellery and accessories. www.simply-mee.co.uk
Spirit of the Andes 27 4 Broad Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 734 325
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You Care. We Care. If our clients wanted an ordinary hairdresser they would not come to us. We are committed to nurturing your individuality. The HairCare Shop is no ordinary salon. Established in 1972.
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30 Alresford Gift Shop 10 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732 192
Modern knitwear from an ancient source. Exclusive Alpaca and Pima cotton knitwear combining style with comfort. Made in Peru and Bolivia using a huge range of beautiful colours. www.spiritoftheandes.co.uk
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Alresford’s premier greetings card shop. Packed from floor to ceiling with an extensive range of gifts, collectables, china, jewellery, toys, cards and gift wrapping for all occasions.
Barnyard 28 Natural Foods 49-51A West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 733 187
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We stock a wide range of sensibly priced whole and organic foods. Special dietary products. Health supplements and natural remedies. Locally baked bread. Freshly cut sandwiches and indulgent homemade cakes, bars and biscuits. THE new alresford pocket guide • 15
Where to shop D 31 Barker & Son
34 The Naked Grape
40A West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732 200 Email: info@dbarkerandson.co.uk
20 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732 002
Traditional, family-owned jewellers and silversmiths offering a wide selection of quality watches, jewellery and gifts for every occasion. Antique jewellery a speciality. Comprehensive repair and restoration service. ‘Gold’ Category Trollbeads stockists. www.dbarkerandson.co.uk
Nominated for Independent Wine Merchant of the Year 2009. We pride ourselves on selling hand-chosen wines from small producers. Our keen prices show what is available in the world of wine. We believe that 'Life’s too short to drink bad wine!' www.thenakedgrape.co.uk
32 Timothy J Gibbons
35 ? C E Evans & Son
Laurel House, Station Approach, Alresford Tel: 01962 736 926
8 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732 477
Solicitor and Chartered Tax Adviser. Wills, Powers of Attorney, Tax and Estate Planning and Employment. www.gibbonssolicitors.co.uk
Established as a butchers in 1912, Evans has expended its high quality goods to include a fishmongers, delicatessen and kitchen. Visit us to see our award-winning produce.
Laurence Oxley Ltd. 33 17 Broad Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732 188
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We have a wonderful choice of picture frames and provide a very quick service. Restoration of books and pictures undertaken. You will find hundreds of books, art materials, paintings and maps here. Do come and see our colourful fused glass panels. www.laurenceoxley.co.uk 16 • THE new alresford pocket guide
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Where to shop 39 Jaga Designs
Paul Hellard 36
& Company
3 East Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 736 333 Email: sales@hellards.co.uk
40 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 735 135
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The finest bespoke kitchens and fitted furniture. Individually designed and made to order using a blend of traditional cabinet-making techniques using the latest technology. Call in for a coffee and a chat about your requirements. www.jagadesigns.co.uk
• Independent estate agents • Over 35 years’ local experience • Friendly, caring and efficient service • Residential sales and rentals • On Rightmove, GPEA & NAEA • Part of a national agency network
providing maximum coverage www.hellards.co.uk
IVC 40
37 Alresford Cycles Ltd 3 Station Road, Alresford Tel: 01962 733 145
Belmont House, The Dean, Alresford Tel: 01962 733 097
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The car dealer with a difference! Based in Alresford since 1987, we supply both new and used on a local and national basis with all the usual dealer facilities. For a really superlative service, do get in touch. www.ivcuk.com
Raleigh, Diamondback, GT & Mongoose. Cycles for all the family. Parts & Accessories. Servicing & Repairs. Open 9am-5pm Tue–Sat. www.alresfordcycles.webs.com
Garth Owen 38 Garden Centre Alton Lane, Four Marks Tel: 01962 773 225
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Your local family-run garden centre. Established for over fifty years. Open seven days a week for anything to do with gardening. Quality wooden garden furniture. Easy parking. We also run a Loyalty Card scheme and Gardening Club – ask in store. THE new alresford pocket guide • 17
Local food & drink
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atercress 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. You can even ride the Mid-Hants Steam Railway – popularly known as the Watercress Line – in honour of its former role in transporting fresh watercress to London in days gone by. These days, it operates real ale and dining trains on special occasions during the year. 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. The Globe 41
The Courtyard 42
The Soke (off Broad Street), Alresford Tel: 01962 733 118
19 Broad Street, The Arcade, Alresford Tel: 01962 733 303
On The Lake
The Globe is a tradional pub offering real ales, good food and a warm welcome. Enjoy afternoon teas in the lakeside garden or winter evenings warming by the log fires. www.theglobeonthelake.co.uk
Tea Rooms
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Stylish shabby chic tearooms serving breakfast, lunch, homemade cakes, cream teas and elegant two-tiered afternoon tea specials. We also make bespoke celebration cakes and cupcakes to order.
Shapla 43 Indian Cuisine 60 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732 134
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Did you know?
On September 26th 1943 a B17 Flying Fortress, complete with a full bomb load, crashed east of Old Alresford Pond. Thanks to the heroism of the pilot, Captain Robert Cogswell, Alresford was saved from potential disaster.
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Superb cuisine and first-class service in an historic building. We have served the community since 1993 and pride ourselves on using local produce. Excellent reputation for event catering. Special Sunday lunchtime buffet. 15% discount for takeaway service.
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Where to eat The Fox Inn 44 Fox Lane, Bramdean near Alresford Tel: 01962 771 363
The Bell 46 Ian and Jane are celebrating 25 years at this 400 year old country village pub. Serving delicious, home cooked food, freshly prepared using local suppliers. Fish is a speciality. Cosy atmosphere, with open log fires in the winter months. Large garden with car park to the rear of pub, enchanting patio area. Email: thefoxinn@bramdean.net
The Woolpack 45 Country Inn
12 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732 429
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• Charming 17th century Coaching Inn • 7 en-suite character bedrooms • Delicious food, local produce, à la carte • 2 course £10 specials, organic baguettes • Eclectic drinks list • Candlelit dining • Log fire • Summer courtyard • Private parties and weddings www.bellalresford.com
47 The Horse & Groom 2 Broad Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 734 809
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Totford, near Northington, Alresford P Tel: 0845 293 8066 The Woolpack Inn has re-opened after an extensive refurbishment. Open log fires throughout the winter. The new menu boasts a vast range of locally-sourced produce. All seven bedrooms are en-suite with a heavy emphasis on home comforts. www.thewoolpackinn.co.uk
A warm and friendly village pub in the heart of Alresford. Fresh local food served daily, with specials for children and OAPs. Large covered outdoor garden, we are dog and children friendly! www.thehorseandgroomalresford co.uk THE new alresford pocket guide • 19
Where to eat
The Chestnut Horse 48 Easton Lane, Easton Tel: 01962 779 257
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Set in the idyllic village of Easton, just 4 miles outside of Alresford, this 16th century pub has old English heritage and ambience in abundance. • A la carte menu • 2 course for £12 menu • Alfresco dining • Weddings and large parties catered for • Children and dogs welcome www.thechestnuthorse.com
Alresford Indian 50 & Bangladeshi Restaurant 21 Broad Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 733 246
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Classic Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine. Sunday buffet (10-12 dishes) £8.95 as much as you can eat. Seating for 65 people. Fully licensed and air conditioned. Takeaway service available with 15% discount.
Award-winning restaurant 2006/7.
Tiffin Tea Rooms 49 50 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 734 394
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Where to Stay 51 Haygarth
Bed & Breakfast 82 Jacklyns Lane, Alresford Tel: 01962 732 715 Mobile: 07986 372 895
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Val Ramshaw
Traditional, friendly tea rooms serving speciality teas and coffees. Homemade cakes, cream teas and light lunchtime specials including vegetarian. Coach parties welcome by appointment. Courtyard seating available.
A pleasant welcome awaits visitors to Haygarth. Located close to town centre and Watercress Line. Three double rooms – two en-suite £65. Singles £35. All bedrooms are on the ground floor.
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Old Alresford Cottage Providing Quality Care for the Elderly Old Alresford Cottage is a prestigious Residential Care Home situated on the outskirts of the beautiful town of Alresford and is dedicated to providing the best residential care for the elderly. The Cottage is in a delightful setting with sweeping lawns and mature trees and is surrounded by wonderful countryside in the heart of rural Hampshire, which provides a tranquil location for walks and relaxation. Our team is well trained and is dedicated to delivering a high standard of care and professional support, 24 hours a day, in a friendly and respectful way.
Old Alresford Cottage, Old Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9DH Tel: 01962 734121 Fax: 01962 735341 e-mail: oldalresfordcottage@affinitycarehomes.co.uk www.oldalresfordcottage.co.uk
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Useful information
Accommodation For a full list of assessed accommodation in the Alresford area go to www.visitwinchester.co.uk. If you need more help, call the Winchester Tourist Information Centre reservation service on 01962 840 500.
Banks Barclays (cashpoint) 2 East Street, Alresford Lloyds TSB West Street, Alresford National Westminster 5 East Street, Alresford
Chemists Alresford Pharmacy Tel: 01962 732 858 Mon-Fri 9.00am-6.30pm Sat 9.00am-5.00pm Wessex Chemist Tel: 01962 732 445 Mon-Fri 9.00am-5.30pm Sat 9.00am-5.00pm
St Gregory’s RC Church Grange Road, Alresford Tel: 01962 732 262 St John the Baptist Church West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 732 105
Council New Alresford Town Council Arlebury Park, The Avenue Alresford Mon-Thurs 11.00am-1.00pm Tel: 01962 732 079
Dentists Alresford Dental Care 4 Pound Hill, Alresford Tel: 01962 733 580 ADP 38 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 733 173
Hospitals Alton Community Hospital Tel: 01420 82811
Churches
North Hants Hospital Basingstoke Tel: 01256 473 202
Alresford Methodist Church Jacklyns Lane, Alresford Tel: 01962 735 278
Royal Hampshire County Hospital Winchester Tel: 01962 863 535
New Farm Chapel New Farm Road, Alresford Tel: 01962 736 197
Alresford Fair, 1920
22 • THE new alresford pocket guide
Broad Street, 1930
Useful information
Library
Transport
Alresford Library 20 Broad Street, Alresford Mon/Thurs/Sat 9.30am-1.00pm Tues 2.00pm-5.00pm, Wed closed Fri 9.30am-1.00pm and 2.00pm-7.00pm
Cango Tel: 0845 602 4135 www.cango.hants.gov.uk
Police Station
National Express Tel: 08705 808 080 www.nationalexpress.com
Alresford Police Station Enquiry Desk Tel: 0845 045 4545 Opening Times: Mon-Fri 12.30pm-4.30pm (subject to operational commitments)
Surgeries The Alresford Surgery Station Road, Alresford Tel: 01962 732 345 Prescriptions: Mon-Fri 8.30am-6.30pm www.thealresfordsurgery.co.uk
Taxis & private hire
Hampshire Bus Company/Stagecoach Tel: 0845 121 0190 www.stagecoach.com
National Rail Enquiry Tel: 08457 484 950 www.nationalrail.co.uk Alton Station Tel: 01420 542 946 Watercress Line www.watercressline.co.uk
Veterinary services Cedar Veterinary Group Alresford Tel: 01962 732 535 Four Marks Tel: 01420 562 048
Dave’s Private Hire Mobile: 07798 666 922 Prestige Cars of Alresford Tel: 01962 732 111 Mobile: 07734 699 332
Key Wheelchair access P
Partial wheelchair access
The establishments carrying this symbol were awarded a Hampshire Hospitality Award in 2009/10. Please see www.visitwinchester.co.uk for the most up-to-date information.
Church parade, Pound Hill, 1935
River Alre at The Dean, 1915
THE new alresford pocket guide • 23
A34 TO NEWBURY
M3 TO BASINGSTOKE & LONDON
J9
NEW ALRESFORD A31 TO ALTON
A31 Tichborne
WINCHESTER J10
B3046
A31 A272
M3 TO SOUTHAMPTON & EASTLEIGH
Cheriton
B3046 TO FAREHAM
The town of New Alresford is situated off the A31 between Winchester and Alton, seven miles from Winchester. Follow the brown and white tourist signs to the Watercress Line. There is a long stay pay and display car park at the railway station.
By steam railway 10 miles from Alton Station. Tel: 01962 733 810 or go to www.watercressline.co.uk for running times.
By Bus Regular services from Winchester, Southampton, Alton and Petersfield. Tel: 0845 121 0190 or go to www.stagecoachbus.com for information. cango (rural bus service): Tel: 0845 602 4135 or go to www.cango.hants.gov.uk.
Facilities Toilets (including disabled) in Station Road • Pay and display parking at the railway station is free on Sundays and some Bank Holidays • Overflow parking at Perins Community School, accessible from Jacklyns Lane and Winchester Road • On-street parking within time limits.
Further information Tourist Information Centre, Winchester Guildhall, High Street, Winchester Hampshire SO23 9GH. Tel: 01962 840 500 | Fax: 01962 850 348 Email: tourism@winchester.gov.uk | www.visitwinchester.co.uk and www.alresford.org. There is also a visitor information point at the Old Goods Shed, Alresford Station.
If you would like to receive this leaflet in another format, Tel: 01962 840 500 or email: marketing@winchester.gov.uk © Alresford Chamber of Commerce 2010.
Designed and produced by Cradduck Design Co. Ltd. www.cradduck.com Published in partnership with Winchester City Council and New Alresford Town Council. All details believed to be correct at the time of publication, but no responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions or subsequent alterations. Editorial photography courtesy and copyright of Roy Gentry, Joe Low and Winchester City Council.
FRONT COVER MAIN IMAGE: JANE RING
Travelling to New Alresford