Discover Alton, Hampshire: a charming market town offering nostalgic steam train journeys and literary walks through Jane Austen's beloved countryside.
Alton, a delightful market town in Hampshire, invites you to explore its rich history and picturesque surrounds at a leisurely pace. Leave the car behind and arrive by train, ready to step aboard the Mid-Hants Railway, fondly known as the Watercress Line. From Alton station’s Platform 3, this heritage steam railway offers a nostalgic journey through stunning Hampshire countryside, adjacent to the South Downs National Park.
A short bus ride or a pleasant stroll from the town centre leads you to the nearby village of Chawton, home to Jane Austen’s House. Immerse yourself in the author’s world, then wander over to the Elizabethan Chawton House, once owned by her brother. Back in Alton, delve into local heritage at the Curtis Museum and Allen Gallery, or simply unwind in the serene Alton Public Gardens. Exploring Alton and its literary landscapes without a car truly allows you to savour every charming detail.