alresford pocket guide 2010

Places to visit • shoPPing guide eating out • country Pubs • beautiful walks

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alresfordpockET guidE

An historic Georgian town

A 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?

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 town of Novum Forum, which soon became New Alresford. He died before the completion of the project and Godfrey de Lucy, his successor as bishop (1189-1204), finished Alresford’s T-shaped town centre as we see it today.

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.

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introduction a brief history

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There are actually two Alresfords, the original settlement of old Alresford to the north of the river and the town of New Alresford to the south. New Alresford is not as young as its name suggests, having been established as a new town by Bishop de Lucy during the Middle Ages.

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For more information on Alresford’s fascinating past, visit www.alresford.org

A 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 critically-acclaimed 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)

alresford Music festival (June)

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

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

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 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

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

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A 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 self-guided 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.

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.

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

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.

the itchen way

st swithun’s way

walks & trails walks & trails

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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

gilbert white’s house & garden & the oates collection

The Wakes, High Street, SelborneTel: 01420 511 275

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

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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st John’s Parish church

West Street, AlresfordTel: 01962 732 105

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

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avington Park, near winchester

Tel: 01962 779 260

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 watercress line

The Railway Station, AlresfordTel: 01962 733 810

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

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historic broad street

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

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A 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 best-preserved steam railways.

hinton ampner garden

Bramdean, near AlresfordTel: 01962 771 305

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 March-end of October. 11am-5pm, closed Thursday and Friday.www.nationaltrust.org.uk

old alresford Pond

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

5 riverside walk

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

Jane austen’s house Museum

chawton, near AltonTel: 01420 83262

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-house- museum.org.uk/

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4 northington grange

Northington, near AlresfordTel: 01962 868 888

Early 19th century neo-classical mansion. Exterior viewing only, home to Grange Park Opera in high summer.www.grangeparkopera.co.uk

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where to visit where to visit

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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 style gurus 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 a 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, AlresfordTel: 01962 733 242

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

hêtre


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

18 Moda rosa


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

alresford linen company

Livingstone House, 7–9 Broad Street, 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 keepingwww.alresfordlinenco.co.uk

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lavenders

19 Broad Street, AlresfordTel: 01962 733 894

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

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natasha thomas flowers


A London-trained florist in Alresford offering a bespoke personal service using the freshest flowers bought daily from Covent Garden.www.natashathomasflowers.co.uk

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long barn growers & distillers

The old Sheep Fair, Bishops Sutton Road, Alresford Tel: 01962 738 684

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 where to shop


15 hair art

17 East Street, AlresfordTel: 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.

font: palatino light

design realities


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

studio 49 nail & beauty clinic

26 The Dean, AlresfordTel: 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.

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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

The Chestnut Horse (15 mins by car) 20 Tiffin Tea Rooms 20 The Alresford Bangladeshi Restaurant 20

Haygarth Bed & Breakfast 20 (5 mins by car)

Meka 10 Lavenders 10 Alresford Linen Company 10 Long Barn Growers & Distillers 10 Hair Art 11 Studio 49 Nail & Beauty Clinic 11 Natasha Thomas Flowers 11 Moda Rosa 11 Hêtre 11 Design Realities 11 Sole Butchers 14 Ragamuffin 14 Mathesons Optometrists 14 Alresford Gallery 14 Eddolls Carpets Ltd. 14 Simply Mee 15 Spirit of the Andes 15 Barnyard Natural Foods 15 Hair Care Shop 15 Alresford Gift Shop 15 D Barker & Son 16 Timothy J GIbbons 16 Laurence Oxley Ltd 16 The Naked Grape 16 C E Evans & Son 16 Paul Hellard & Company 17 Alresford Cycles Ltd. 17 Garth Owen Garden Centre 17 Jaga Designs 17 IVC 17


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1 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)

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Alresford and watercress go way back. Approximately 1,500 tonnes of

watercress is produced in Alresford every

year, supplying supermarket chains and

greengrocers across the country. growing in the pure spring water, it has been picked and eaten

locally for centuries.

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alresford gallery

36 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 735 286

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

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the haircare shop

18 West Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 733 100

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.

eddolls carpets ltd.

30 Broad Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 735 715

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

25 spirit of the andes


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

ragamuffin

2 Bakehouse Yard, West Street, AlresfordTel: 01962 734 488

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

sole butchers

5 Broad Street, Alresford Tel: 01962 735 221

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.

alresford gift shop


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.

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Matheson optometrists


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

barnyard natural foods

49-51A West Street, AlresfordTel: 01962 733 187

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.

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simply Mee


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

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31 34 the naked grape


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

d barker & son

40A West Street, AlresfordTel: 01962 732 200email: [email protected]

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

timothy J gibbons

Laurel House, Station Approach, AlresfordTel: 01962 736 926

Solicitor and Chartered Tax Adviser. Wills, Powers of Attorney, Tax and Estate Planning and Employment. www.gibbonssolicitors.co.uk

36 Paul hellard & company

3 East Street, AlresfordTel: 01962 736 333email: [email protected]

• 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 coveragewww.hellards.co.uk



alresford cycles ltd

3 Station Road, AlresfordTel: 01962 733 145

Raleigh, Diamondback, GT & Mongoose. Cycles for all the family.Parts & Accessories. Servicing & Repairs. Open 9am-5pm Tue–Sat.www.alresfordcycles.webs.com

39 Jaga designs


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

ivc

Belmont House, The Dean, AlresfordTel: 01962 733 097

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

c e evans & son


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.

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garth owen garden centre

Alton Lane, Four MarksTel: 01962 773 225

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.

38 laurence oxley ltd.


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

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the globe on the lake

The Soke (off Broad Street), AlresfordTel: 01962 733 118

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

the bell


• 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 weddingswww.bellalresford.com

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. 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.

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41 the courtyard tea rooms

19 Broad Street, The Arcade, AlresfordTel: 01962 733 303

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.

the fox inn

Fox Lane, Bramdean near AlresfordTel: 01962 771 363

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: [email protected]

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the horse & groom


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

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local food & drink where to eat


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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the woolpack country inn

Totford, near Northington, AlresfordTel: 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

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shapla indian cuisine


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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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 CottageProviding Quality Care for the Elderly

Old Alresford Cottage, Old Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9DHTel: 01962 734121 Fax: 01962 735341

e-mail: oldalresfordcottage@affinitycarehomes.co.ukwww.oldalresfordcottage.co.uk

the chestnut horse

Easton Lane, EastonTel: 01962 779 257

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 welcomewww.thechestnuthorse.com

alresford indian & bangladeshi restaurant


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.

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tiffin tea rooms


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.

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haygarth bed & breakfast

82 Jacklyns Lane, AlresfordTel: 01962 732 715 Mobile: 07986 372 895

Val Ramshaw

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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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 TSBWest Street, Alresford

National Westminster5 East Street, Alresford

chemists Alresford PharmacyTel: 01962 732 858Mon-Fri 9.00am-6.30pmSat 9.00am-5.00pm

Wessex ChemistTel: 01962 732 445Mon-Fri 9.00am-5.30pm Sat 9.00am-5.00pm

churches Alresford Methodist ChurchJacklyns Lane, AlresfordTel: 01962 735 278

New Farm ChapelNew Farm Road, AlresfordTel: 01962 736 197

St Gregory’s RC ChurchGrange Road, AlresfordTel: 01962 732 262

St John the Baptist ChurchWest Street, AlresfordTel: 01962 732 105 council New Alresford Town CouncilArlebury Park, The AvenueAlresford Mon-Thurs 11.00am-1.00pmTel: 01962 732 079

dentists Alresford dental Care4 Pound Hill, AlresfordTel: 01962 733 580

AdP38 West Street, AlresfordTel: 01962 733 173 hospitals Alton Community HospitalTel: 01420 82811

North Hants HospitalBasingstokeTel: 01256 473 202

Royal Hampshire County HospitalWinchesterTel: 01962 863 535

Alresford Fair, 1920 Broad Street, 1930 Church parade, Pound Hill, 1935 River Alre at The dean, 1915

library Alresford Library20 Broad Street, AlresfordMon/Thurs/Sat 9.30am-1.00pmTues 2.00pm-5.00pm, Wed closedFri 9.30am-1.00pm and 2.00pm-7.00pm

Police station

Alresford Police Station enquiry deskTel: 0845 045 4545Opening Times: Mon-Fri 12.30pm-4.30pm (subject to operational commitments) surgeries The Alresford SurgeryStation Road, AlresfordTel: 01962 732 345Prescriptions: Mon-Fri 8.30am-6.30pmwww.thealresfordsurgery.co.uk

taxis & private hire dave’s Private Hire Mobile: 07798 666 922

Prestige Cars of Alresford Tel: 01962 732 111 Mobile: 07734 699 332

transport CangoTel: 0845 602 4135 www.cango.hants.gov.uk

Hampshire Bus Company/Stagecoach Tel: 0845 121 0190www.stagecoach.com

National expressTel: 08705 808 080 www.nationalexpress.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 GroupAlresford Tel: 01962 732 535Four Marks Tel: 01420 562 048

useful information


useful information

key

Wheelchair access 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.

P

If you would like to receive this leaflet in another format, Tel: 01962 840 500 or email: [email protected]

© Alresford Chamber of Commerce 2010. Designed and produced by Cradduck Design Co. Ltd. www.cradduck.comPublished 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.

10 miles from Alton Station. Tel: 01962 733 810 or go to www.watercressline.co.uk for running times.

By steam railway

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.

By Bus

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.

Facilities

Further information

Tourist Information Centre, Winchester Guildhall, High Street, Winchester Hampshire SO23 9GH. Tel: 01962 840 500 | Fax: 01962 850 348 Email: [email protected] | www.visitwinchester.co.uk and www.alresford.org. There is also a visitor information point at the Old Goods Shed, Alresford Station.

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.

WINCHESTER

NEWALRESFORD

A34 TO NEWBURY

B3046

A31

A31

M3 TO BASINGSTOKE& LONDON

M3 TO SOUTHAMPTON& EASTLEIGH

J9 A31 TO ALTON

J10

B3046 TO FAREHAM

Tichborne

CheritonA272

FRON

T COVER M

AIN IM

AGE: JAN

E RING

travelling to new alresford

alresford pocket guide 2010

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