Alresford City Guide

About Alresford – History and Culture

Alresford (pronounced 'Alls-ford') is a picturesque town in the Hampshire countryside, roughly 7 miles northeast of Winchester. Its history stretches back to the Domesday Book, but its modern form was primarily shaped in the 12th century when Bishop Godfrey de Lucy created a large pond (the Great Weir) to control the River Alre and support a thriving wool and corn trade. The town was rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1689, giving it the elegant Georgian streetscape that visitors admire today.

The town is famously associated with the watercress industry; the pure chalk streams of the area have supported watercress farming since the 19th century. The 'Watercress Line' heritage railway is a direct nod to this heritage, as the railway was originally built to transport watercress to London markets. Alresford grew prosperous from the wool trade, then later from brewing and agriculture. Today, it retains a lively community spirit with independent shops, cafes, and a strong calendar of events.

Culturally, Alresford is a blend of traditional English village life and a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. It lies within the South Downs National Park, attracting walkers, cyclists, and history buffs. The town has a number of historic inns, a vibrant local theatre, and a well-preserved marketplace. Its cultural identity is deeply tied to its rural setting and its proactive community that has worked to preserve its unique character.

• The broad, tree-lined Broad Street is a conservation area with many Georgian and Victorian buildings.
• St. John the Baptist Church in Old Alresford dates from the 12th century.
• Alresford House (now a school) was built in the 18th century.
• The Great Weir is a historic flood defence and scenic spot.
• Alresford's railway station is a beautifully restored Victorian building.
• The town has several ancient public houses, including The Bell and The Swan.
• The Alresford Show is one of the oldest one-day country shows in England.
• Alresford has its own museum, housed in a former railway carriage.

Did You Know? – Facts about Alresford

Alresford is a town of surprising records and unique features. Despite its modest size, it punches well above its weight in heritage and natural beauty. The town's identity is strongly shaped by its watercress history, but there is much more to discover.

The watercress beds around Alresford are some of the most productive in the UK, supplying supermarkets nationwide. The Watercress Line is one of the most popular heritage railways in southern England. Alresford also has a rich literary connection: author Jane Austen visited frequently and her brother owned nearby Chawton House.

• Alresford's watercress beds cover over 100 acres.
• The town has a microclimate that favours watercress cultivation.
• The Watercress Line was featured in the film 'The Railway Children' (1970).
• Alresford was the birthplace of Mary Russell Mitford, author of 'Our Village'.
• The town has a weekly farmers' market every first Saturday of the month.
• Alresford is one of the few places in the UK where you can see traditional watercress harvesting.
• The town's cricket club is one of the oldest in Hampshire.
• Alresford has its own brass band, formed in 1885.
• The Alre River is a designated chalk stream, a rare habitat.
• Old Alresford Pond is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
• The town holds a famous 'Christmas Lights' switch-on event that draws thousands.
• Alresford has a litter-free award from the Hampshire branch of CPRE.

Geography and Climate of Alresford

Alresford is situated in the Itchen Valley, within the South Downs National Park in Hampshire, South East England. The town sits on the River Alre, which flows into the River Itchen. The landscape is classic chalk downland, with rolling hills, ancient woodland, and water meadows. Old Alresford lies west of the river, while New Alresford (the main commercial centre) lies on the east bank. The town is surrounded by farmland and is close to the South Downs Way.

The climate is temperate maritime, with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 2°C in January to 22°C in July. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with around 800mm annually. The area is often slightly cooler and breezier than inland due to its elevation and proximity to the South Downs. Snowfall is occasional but not heavy. The chalk soils drain well, so flooding is rare except after heavy rain.

• Alresford is about 87 metres above sea level.
• The town is situated within the South Downs National Park.
• The nearest city is Winchester (7 miles south-west).
• Alresford lies on the A31 road, linking to the M3 motorway.
• The River Alre is a winterbourne, often dry in summer.
• The Itchen Valley is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
• The South Downs Way long-distance trail passes a few miles south.
• Prevailing winds are south-westerly.
• Average annual sunshine is around 1600 hours.

Things to Do in Alresford

Alresford offers a surprising number of activities for a small town. Whether you're interested in heritage railways, walking, shopping, or gastronomy, you'll find plenty to occupy your time. The town is a base for exploring the South Downs and the historic cities of Winchester and Portsmouth.

Food & Dining

Alresford's dining scene is dominated by high-quality pubs, tea rooms, and independent cafes. The town is famous for its watercress, which features in many local dishes – from watercress soup to pesto. There are several gastropubs serving locally sourced game, beef, and fish. For fine dining, the area has options in nearby villages.

Weekly farmers' markets are held on the first Saturday of each month at the Community Centre, offering local produce including watercress, cheese, bread, and cakes. The town also has a handful of takeaway options (fish and chips, Chinese, Indian). The Globe Inn, The Bell Hotel, and The Tichborne Arms are popular for pub meals.

• Try watercress soup at The Tea Rooms at the Watercress Line station.
• Sunday roasts at The Horse and Groom in Old Alresford.
• Afternoon tea at the Old Fire Station Cafe.
• Italian cuisine at La Fontana in nearby Four Marks.
• Alresford's own brewery – Alresford Brewing Company – produces ales.
• Farm shops like Sillars Meadow sell local produce.
• Seasonal food festivals celebrate watercress and local food.
• Several pubs offer gluten-free and vegan options.

Festivals & Events

Alresford has a vibrant events calendar. The highlight is the annual Alresford Show in September, a traditional agricultural show with livestock, displays, and entertainment. The Watercress Festival in May celebrates the town's iconic crop with cooking demonstrations, stalls, and a watercress-eating competition.

Other events include the Christmas Lights Switch-On with a festive market, a summer music festival in the grounds of the Alresford House, and regular art exhibitions at the Community Centre. The Watercress Line runs special events like 'Days Out with Thomas' and steam galas throughout the year.

• Alresford Show (early September).
• Watercress Festival (May bank holiday).
• Alresford Music Festival (July).
• Christmas Lights Switch-On (late November).
• Farmers' Market (first Saturday each month).
• Art in the Yard – local artists open studios (summer).
• Alresford Craft Fair (multiple dates).
• Classic Car Show at the Watercress Line.
• Halloween events at the railway.

Cultural Attractions

The main cultural attraction is the Watercress Line heritage railway, where you can ride steam trains through the Hampshire countryside. The Alresford Railway Station houses a museum with railway memorabilia. The town also has the Alresford Museum (housed in a converted railway carriage at the station) which tells the story of the town's history.

St. John the Baptist Church in Old Alresford is a beautiful medieval building with a Norman font. The Old Alresford Pond is a peaceful spot for birdwatching. The town also has a small cinema – the Alresford Community Cinema – which shows films once a month.

• Watercress Line (heritage railway).
• Alresford Museum (at the station).
• St. John the Baptist Church (Old Alresford).
• Great Weir (historic river feature).
• Alresford House (private, but visible from road).
• Brass rubbing centre at the church.
• Local art galleries (e.g., The Gallery at The Old Fire Station).

Outdoor Activities

Alresford is a paradise for walkers and cyclists. The South Downs Way is accessible from the town, offering spectacular views. There are numerous circular walks along the River Alre and through the watercress beds. The Itchen Valley provides gentle trails for all abilities. Cycling routes connect Alresford to Winchester, Petersfield, and the Meon Valley.

Fishing is popular on the River Itchen (permits required). Horse riding is available at local stables. The town has a leisure centre with a swimming pool and gym. Birdwatching at Old Alresford Pond is excellent, with sightings of kingfishers, grey herons, and waterfowl.

• Watercress Way – a circular walk through watercress beds.
• Alresford to Ropley walk (part of the Watercress Line path).
• Itchen Valley National Nature Reserve.
• South Downs Way – multiple access points.
• Cycling: Route 28 connects Alresford to Basingstoke and Winchester.
• Old Alresford Pond – bird hides available.
• Perins School sports facilities open to the public.
• Alresford Golf Club (nearby).
• Kite flying on Arlebury Park.

Economy and Key Industries

Alresford's economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, particularly watercress farming, and the wool trade. Today, the town's economy is more diversified. Small businesses, tourism, and the heritage sector play significant roles. The Watercress Line attracts over 100,000 visitors annually, supporting local hospitality and retail.

The town has a high proportion of independent shops, services, and professional practices (solicitors, accountants). Many residents commute to nearby cities: Winchester, Basingstoke, and London (from Winchester or Alton railway stations). There is also a growing number of home-based businesses and remote workers, attracted by the quality of life.

Key sectors include tourism, retail, construction, education (Perins School is a major employer), and agricultural technology. The area is also a hub for ham curing and speciality food production. Small-scale manufacturing (e.g., brewing, artisan bakery) is present.

• Watercress farming: The Watercress Company is based locally.
• Heritage railway: Watercress Line employs around 30 staff and many volunteers.
• Retail: Broad Street has independent shops – butchers, bakeries, bookshop.
• Hospitality: Pubs, cafes, B&Bs.
• Education: Perins School (secondary) employs over 150.
• Construction: Local builders and contractors.
• Professional services: Several law firms and financial advisers.
• Creative industries: Artists, photographers, writers.
• Remote working: High-speed broadband available in many areas.
• Community enterprises: Alresford Community Shop (volunteer-run).

Where to Live in Alresford

Alresford offers a variety of housing options, from historic townhouses on Broad Street to modern estates and countryside cottages. The town is popular with families, retirees, and commuters. Property prices are above the national average due to the desirable location within the South Downs National Park.

Old Alresford is quieter, with larger properties, many along the old Alresford-Preston Candover road. New Alresford town centre has terraced Georgian houses, flats above shops, and some new developments. The Arlebury Park area has more modern family homes. The villages around Alresford (like Ovington, Itchen Abbas, Tichborne) also offer rural living within a short drive.

Rental properties are limited and can be expensive. The most sought-after streets include Broad Street, West Street, and The Avenue. Prices for a 3-bedroom house typically range from £400,000 to £600,000. There are also some affordable housing schemes through the local council.

• Broad Street: prestigious Georgian houses, central location.
• West Street: mixed period and modern properties.
• The Avenue: tree-lined, large Victorian houses.
• Arlebury Park: 20th-century development with gardens.
• St. John's Close: modern townhouses.
• Old Alresford: traditional cottages and farmhouses.
• Sun Hill: semi-rural with views.
• Residential care homes: Alresford House offers retirement living.
• New developments: limited, e.g., off Jacklyn's Lane.
• Rural hamlets: Ovington, Bighton, Ropley Dean.

Formalities and Visas in Alresford

For non-UK citizens visiting or moving to Alresford, standard UK immigration rules apply. Visitors from many countries (including UK, Canada, Australia, EU) can stay for up to 6 months without a visa for tourism or short business. For longer stays, a visa is required. The nearest visa application centre is in London or Southampton.

If you plan to work, study, or join family, you may need a work visa, student visa, or family visa. The Skilled Worker visa is common for those with a job offer from a licensed sponsor. Also, the Global Talent visa is available for exceptionally talented individuals. EU citizens require an EU Settlement Scheme status (now closed for new applicants except for family members).

To relocate permanently, a visa leading to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is needed. Residency can be applied for after 5 years on certain visas. The Home Office website is the authoritative source. It's advisable to consult an immigration solicitor.

• Standard Visitor visa: up to 6 months, no work.
• Skilled Worker visa: job offer from UK employer with sponsorship.
• Youth Mobility Scheme: 2 years for citizens of certain countries (aged 18-30).
• Student visa: for full-time courses at accredited institutions.
• Family visa: spouse, partner, dependent relative.
• Global Talent visa: for leaders in arts, science, digital technology.
• Innovator visa: for those with innovative business ideas.
• Start-up visa: for early-stage businesses.
• EU Settlement Scheme: for EU citizens resident before 31 Dec 2020.
• Biometric residence permit (BRP) collection: local post office or by post.
• Travel insurance recommended for visitors.
• No visa required for up to 6 months for many nationalities.
• Embassy and consular services: London.

Working in Alresford

The job market in Alresford is relatively small, with many residents commuting to larger employment centres. Local employment opportunities exist in retail, hospitality, education, and the heritage sector. The Watercress Line, Perins School, and local farms are major employers. There are also opportunities in professional services, but these are limited compared to cities.

Many people work remotely in tech, creative, or consulting roles, attracted by the quality of life and decent broadband. Commuting to Winchester (15 minutes by train) gives access to larger employers in finance, insurance, and local government. Basingstoke (25 minutes) and London (1 hour from Winchester) are also feasible. Self-employment is common among tradespeople and professionals.

For those seeking work, it is helpful to join local networks like the Alresford Business Group. Job agencies in Winchester can help with placements. The minimum wage in the UK is £11.44 per hour (from April 2024). Average salaries in Alresford hover around £30,000-£45,000 for professional roles, though many earn more commuting to London.

• Major local employers: Watercress Line, Perins School, The Watercress Company.
• Retail jobs: Waitrose (in nearby Alton), local shops.
• Hospitality jobs: pubs, cafes, B&Bs.
• Construction: frequent developments.
• Remote work: high-speed fibre available.
• Self-employment: common for builders, artists, consultants.
• Commuting: train from Alton or via car to Winchester/Petersfield.
• Professional networks: Alresford Business Group, Hampshire Chamber of Commerce.
• Volunteering: a strong volunteer culture, especially on the railway.
• Job centres: Winchester or Basingstoke.

Studying in Alresford

Alresford has good educational options for families. Perins School is the secondary school (ages 11-16), rated 'Good' by Ofsted. It has a specialism in maths and computing. There is also a sixth form consortium with other local schools, but many students attend Alton College or Peter Symonds College in Winchester for A-levels.

Primary schools: Sun Hill Infant School, Alresford Primary School (former junior school now an all-through primary). There are also pre-schools and nurseries. For private education, there are options like St Swithun's in Winchester (girls) and Winchester College (boys). University-level students typically go to the University of Winchester, University of Southampton, or other UK universities.

The town itself does not have a higher education institution, but the proximity to Winchester and Southampton makes it easy to commute for higher education. English language schools are available in Winchester. The public library in Alresford offers study space and resources.

• Perins School: co-educational, ages 11-16, good reputation.
• Alresford Primary School: ages 4-11, popular and oversubscribed.
• Sun Hill Infant School: ages 4-7.
• Pre-schools: Alresford Pre-School, Little Learners Nursery.
• Sixth form: Alton College (outstanding), Peter Symonds College.
• Private schools: Winchester College, St Swithun's, Pilgrims' School.
• Higher education: University of Winchester (8 miles), University of Southampton (15 miles).
• Adult education: Eastleigh College, local courses.
• Libraries: Alresford Library on Broad Street.
• Music and arts: Alresford Music Centre, lessons available.
• Tutoring: private tutors for all subjects.
• English language: courses in Winchester.

Finance and Banks in Alresford

Alresford has a few banking facilities. There is a NatWest branch on Broad Street, but hours may be limited. Other major banks (Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC) have branches in Winchester or Alton. Many residents use online banking. The town has several ATMs at the NatWest, Co-op, and shops.

For mortgages and financial advice, there are independent financial advisers in town. Currency exchange can be done at the post office. Tax rules: UK residents pay income tax and National Insurance. Non-residents may pay tax on UK income. It is important to get a National Insurance number for work.

• NatWest – only remaining high street bank in Alresford.
• Post Office – limited banking services.
• ATMs at NatWest, Co-op Food, Broad Street.
• Independent financial advisers: e.g., Heritage IFA.
• Online banking popular (Monzo, Starling, etc.).
• Mortgages: through London and Country (online) or local brokers.
• Tax: HMRC for self-assessment.
• Currency exchange: post office or online.
• Credit unions: not local, but Hampshire Credit Union serves the area.
• Insurance: local brokers for home and car.

Health Care in Alresford

Alresford has a well-regarded medical practice: Alresford Surgery on Station Road, offering GP services, nurses, and some specialist clinics. There is also a dental practice on Broad Street. For hospitals, the nearest is Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester (major A&E), with Alton Community Hospital for minor injuries.

The NHS provides most services free at point of use for residents. Non-residents may have to pay or use private insurance. There are several pharmacies: Boots on Broad Street and a LloydsPharmacy inside the Co-op. Private healthcare options exist in Winchester (Spire Hospital, Nuffield Health).

• Alresford Surgery: NHS GP practice, book online.
• Alresford Dental Health Centre: private and NHS appointments.
• Pharmacy: Boots, LloydsPharmacy (Co-op).
• Nearest A&E: Royal Hampshire County Hospital, Winchester (7 miles).
• Minor injuries: Alton Community Hospital (5 miles).
• Walk-in centre: Winchester.
• Private hospital: Spire Winchester Clinic.
• Opticians: Specsavers in Winchester; local optician in Alton.
• Mental health support: Talking Therapies via IAPT.
• Health visitors and district nurses: based at the surgery.
• Vaccinations: at the surgery or local pharmacy.

Accommodation in Alresford

Accommodation options in Alresford include hotels, B&Bs, self-catering cottages, and holiday lets. For long-term stays, rental properties are available but limited. The most prominent hotel is The Swan Hotel (now a pub with rooms) and The Bell Hotel (a coaching inn). There are also boutique B&Bs like The Old Stables and Yew Tree House.

For self-catering, Watercress Cottages offer historic properties. The local area also has caravan parks (e.g., at Tanglewood) and campsites. For buying a home, you would need to go through local estate agents like Hamptons, Charters, or Cubitt & West. Rental market: 2-bed flat £900-£1200 pcm; 3-bed house £1200-£1800 pcm.

• The Bell Hotel: historic coaching inn, central.
• The Swan Hotel: pub with rooms, near station.
• B&Bs: The Old Stables, Yew Tree House, Burnett B&B.
• Self-catering: Watercress Cottages (luxury), Cosy Cottages.
• Camping: Alresford Camping and Caravanning Club Site (nearby).
• Long-term rentals: via Rightmove/Zoopla, limited supply.
• Estate agents: Hamptons, Charters, Fine & Country.
• Airbnb: several listings in town and surrounding villages.

Planning Your Move to Alresford

Moving to Alresford requires careful planning, especially if coming from abroad. It is advisable to visit first to get a feel for the area. For renting, you will need references, a deposit (usually 5 weeks' rent), and possibly a guarantor. For buying, you'll need a mortgage in principle and a solicitor specialising in property law.

Register with the local GP and dentist as soon as you have an address. Set up a UK bank account (many can be opened online before arrival). Arrange school places for children through the local council (Hampshire County Council). It is also wise to get National Insurance number for work.

• Visit before committing: get a feel for the town.
• Secure rental before arrival: use bridging accommodation if needed.
• Opening a UK bank account: compare online banks (Monzo, Starling).
• Register with Alresford Surgery: need proof of address.
• School admissions: apply through Hampshire County Council.
• Council tax: band D around £2,100 per year.
• Utilities: arrange electricity, gas, water, broadband (Openreach/Virgin).
• TV licence: required for watching live TV.
• Driving license: can use foreign license for 12 months; then apply for UK.
• Register to vote: through local council.
• Pet import: check UK rules (microchip, rabies vaccination, pet passport).
• Left-hand traffic: be aware if from right-driving country.

Leisure in Alresford

Leisure options in Alresford are centred around the outdoors, pubs, and community activities. The town has a cinema night, a local theatre group (Alresford Dramatic Society), and several sports clubs. Shopping is mostly independent: bookshop, clothes boutiques, a deli, and a hardware store. There is a Co-op supermarket and a Tesco Express.

Nightlife is low-key: a few pubs with live music occasionally, and a social club. For more nightlife, Winchester offers clubs, bars, and a theatre. The leisure centre (Alresford Leisure Centre) has a gym, swimming pool, and fitness classes. There are also many walking and cycling groups.

• Pubs with food: The Bell, The Globe, The Swan, The Horse and Groom.
• Cinema: Community Cinema (monthly).
• Theatre: Alresford Dramatic Society performances.
• Leisure centre: swimming pool, gym, classes.
• Sports clubs: Alresford Cricket Club, Alresford Town FC, rugby at nearby Winchester.
• Shopping: Broad Street (independent: butchers, baker, florist).
• Library: Alresford Library on Broad Street.
• Countryside: walks, cycling, fishing, riding.

Transportation Options in Alresford

Alresford is well-connected by road and rail, though the town itself has a heritage railway, not a mainline service. The mainline station is at Alton (6 miles east) with services to London Waterloo (70 minutes). There are also trains from Winchester (fast to London Waterloo in 60 minutes). Bus services connect Alresford to Winchester, Alton, and Petersfield (lines 64, 64X, 65).

By car, the A31 runs through the town connecting to the M3 at junction 9 (8 miles). Parking: several car parks in town (some free, some pay-and-display). The town is very walkable. Taxis are available. For cyclists, there are routes on quiet roads and the Watercress Way.

• Train: Alton station (direct to London Waterloo).
• Bus: Stagecoach services 64/64X to Winchester, 65 to Petersfield.
• Road: A31, A272 nearby.
• Parking: Broad Street car park, Arlebury Park car park.
• Taxi: Alresford Cars, A-Line Taxis.
• Cycling: National Route 28, local lanes.
• Walking: many footpaths, South Downs access.
• Airport: Heathrow (1 hour drive), Southampton (30 minutes).
• Ferry: Portsmouth (30 miles).

Everyday Life in Alresford

Everyday life in Alresford is calm and community-focused. The town has a low crime rate and a strong sense of safety. People are friendly, and there are many clubs and societies to join - from gardening to bell-ringing. The high street is lively but not congested. Most amenities are within walking distance.

The pace of life is slower than in cities. Many activities revolve around the seasons: the show in autumn, Christmas markets, summer fêtes. The local council maintains parks and public spaces well. Recycling and waste collection are efficient. Overall, it is a highly desirable place to live for those seeking a balance between rural and accessible.

• Low crime rate: one of the safest areas in Hampshire.
• Community magazine: Alresford Matters (quarterly).
• Parish councils: Alresford Town Council, Old Alresford Parish Meeting.
• Dog-friendly: many walks, pubs welcoming dogs.
• Post office: on Broad Street (limited hours).
• Houses of worship: St John the Baptist (C of E), Roman Catholic church in Alton.
• Bin collection: fortnightly recycling, weekly black bin.
• Broadband: fibre available in most of town (up to 1Gbps).
• Mobile coverage: good (4G, 5G in some areas).

Cost of Living in Alresford

The cost of living in Alresford is above the UK average, largely driven by housing. Property prices are high compared to much of Hampshire, due to the South Downs National Park designation and desirability. Rents are also elevated. However, other costs like groceries and fuel are around national averages.

A single person might need around £1,500 per month excluding rent for a comfortable lifestyle. A family of four could spend £3,000+ per month on bills, food, petrol, etc. Council tax is band D about £2,100 per year. Energy costs are typical for the region. Eating out is moderate: pub mains £15-25.

• Housing: 3-bed house £400k-£600k; rental £1200-1800 pcm.
• Utilities: gas/electric £150-250 per month for an average house.
• Council tax: band D approx £2,100 per year.
• Food shopping: Waitrose (Alton) or Co-op; weekly shop £80-120 for a family.
• Petrol: prices competitive with national average.
• Public transport: bus fares £2-5 per trip.
• Childcare: nursery £50-70 per day.
• Gym: leisure centre membership £30-50 per month.
• Water: metered approx £40-60 per month.

Places to Visit in Alresford

Alresford itself has many attractions, but it also serves as a base for exploring the wider region. The Watercress Line is the top attraction, taking you through beautiful countryside to Alton. You can alight at Ropley or Medstead and Four Marks stations, each with their own charm. The railway also hosts dining experiences and themed events.

On the outskirts, the Itchen Valley provides lovely walks, including to the ancient yew forest at the source of the River Itchen. The town of Winchester with its magnificent cathedral, medieval buildings, and King Alfred statue is only 15 minutes away. The Jane Austen House in Chawton is a short drive (5 miles). For even more history, the Roman city of Silchester is 20 miles away.

The South Downs National Park offers endless possibilities for hiking, with highlights like St. Catherine's Hill, Old Winchester Hill, and the Beacon. The market town of Petersfield is charming, as is the historic village of Ropley with its thatched cottages. The coast is within an hour's drive, with Portsmouth's Historic Dockyard and the New Forest similarly accessible.

For a shorter day out, visit the Alresford Watercress Beds, the Great Weir, or the churchyard of St John's for a peaceful stroll. The village of Old Alresford has a pretty green and a duck pond. The nearby village of Ovington also boasts a good pub and beautiful river walks.

• Watercress Line: steam train rides, museum, events.
• Old Alresford Pond: scenic, birdwatching.
• Jane Austen's House, Chawton (5 miles).
• Winchester Cathedral and city (7 miles).
• Hinton Ampner House (NT, 4 miles).
• South Downs Way: walking and cycling.
• Alresford