The parish of Alton comprises the town of Alton and the separate village of Holybourne in Hampshire. The parish is warm, welcoming and vibrant with community spirit at its heart. Situated at the source of the River Wey and enjoying a rural backdrop at the gateway to the South Downs National Park, the area is known by many as “Jane Austen Country” with close ties to the charming neighbouring parish of Chawton, home to Jane Austen’s House Museum and Chawton Library.
The largest settlement in East Hampshire, the town also has its own heritage attraction the Mid Hants Railway Watercress Line as well as being well known for the civil war Battle of Alton in 1643, the murder of Fanny Adams in 1867 and also home to the Allen Gallery and Curtis Museum.
Staying within the town, visitors will find a variety of shops from national chain stores to local independent retailers. When it comes to dining out and socialising, Alton offers a wide choice of cafes, restaurants, bars and quintessentially English pubs to choose from, all located within easy walking distance of the town centre.
With plenty to see and do in and around Alton, the town serves as a convenient base to explore the local area. With so many villages within a few miles of Alton, visitors can take in the breathtaking views and the rich heritage of the region, and also sample the diverse range of locally produced food and drink which can also be experienced at the Alton Farmers’ Market every second Saturday of the month in the High Street.
Monthly Guided Walks with the Town Guides take place around historic Alton where you can learn more about the town’s history and points of interest. The walks meet at the Cairn near the Curtis Museum on Crown Hill on the third Saturday of every month. Further details are available from Alton Community Centre on 01420 85057.
Below are a number of promotional videos we have produced along with local filmmakers Luke and Elliot. If you are new to Alton they will provide a wealth of information on our wonderful community, our heritage and history, local events, services and facilities. Enjoy!
Town Map (PDF) to help you find your way around Alton.