Alresford & Surrounding Area
Staying at Drove Farm gives you a great base to explore the surrounding area and visit the large number of attractions on offer with Hampshire (Jane Austenβs County), Surrey & Sussex within easy reach. Places to visit range from historic sites, extensive hiking trails and quaint market towns.
Alresford
Alresford, where Drove Farm is situated, is the perfect place for walking and there is plenty to see! The Fulling Mill and riverside walk, St. John’s Parish Church, the Millennium Trail and Old Alresford Pond, created by Bishop de Lucy, Bishop of Winchester, in the 12th century.
The Arle Valley & Millennium Trail
Within a three-mile radius of Alresford, there are some 60 miles of paths and trails. Many of these are hundreds of years old. The Arle Valley and Millennium Trails give you an opportunity to see at closer-hand some of the beautiful countryside that surrounds Alresford. For the more adventurous, the trails have opportunities for longer walks if you so wish.
alresford.org/millen
The Fulling Mill & Riverside Walk
The riverside walk, straddling the River Arle, is a delight! You will find the thatched timber-framed Fulling Mill, built in the 13th century. The riverside walk follows the route of a ford that may have been the one from which Alresford takes its name.
The Watercress Line
The Watercress Line originating in Alresford, also known as the Mid Hants Railway Watercress Line, is a preserved steam railway that runs through the picturesque countryside of Hampshire, England. It’s a historical and scenic railway experience that offers visitors a chance to step back in time and enjoy the charm of steam locomotion and vintage railway travel.
History
Originally a part of the Mid Hants Railway network, which operated as a vital transportation link between London and the South Coast in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The name “Watercress Line” is derived from the railway’s historical role in transporting watercress, a locally grown leafy vegetable, from the beds in Hampshire to London markets.
Route & Experience
The Watercress Line covers a scenic route of approximately 10 miles through the Hampshire countryside, passing through quaint villages, lush green fields, and wooded areas. The journey takes visitors on a nostalgic trip aboard vintage steam and diesel locomotives, allowing them to experience the golden age of rail travel.
Winchester
Just 15 minutes from Drove Farm, an unspoilt cathedral city on the edge of the rolling South Downs National Park, Winchester is England’s ancient capital and former seat of King Alfred the Great. Today, Winchester combines the best of city life with the freshness of the surrounding countryside.
The Majestic Winchester Cathedral
Built between 1079 to 1532, Winchester cathedral is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Its stunning architecture and centuries-old history will leave you in awe. Don’t miss the chance to see the legendary Winchester Bible, a masterpiece of medieval craftsmanship.
winchester-cathedral.org.uk
The Great Hall and Round Table
Step back in time at The Great Hall. Built in the 12th Century, the hall is home to the iconic King Arthur’s Round Table. Immerse yourself in the tales of knights and chivalry as you marvel at this legendary centrepiece. The hall also houses an impressive collection of medieval artefacts.
hants.gov.uk/greathall
Hampshire & Beyond
Hampshire, a captivating county on England’s southern coast, beckons with a blend of rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or someone seeking charming villages and modern amenities, Hampshire offers an array of experiences that will leave you enchanted.
Jane Austen’s House
Pay homage to one of England’s beloved authors at Jane Austen’s House Museum in Chawton. Wander through the rooms where Austen penned some of her most famous works and gain insight into her life and legacy.
janeaustens.house
New Forest National Park
Embrace the natural splendor of the New Forest, a national park renowned for its ancient woodlands, heathlands, and diverse wildlife. Explore on foot, by bike, or even on horseback to discover hidden glades and tranquil streams.
thenewforest.co.uk
Getting Around The Area
The nearest mainline train stations to Alresford are Winchester and Alton, where you can change for trains to Southampton, Bournemouth & London.
Buses also run from Winchester, Alton and Petersfield to Alresford. To plan a bus journey visit stagecoachbus.com and enter your starting point and destination.
There are local taxi options in Alresford and Uber is available in Winchester:
T Private Hire: 07455 613431 / Alresford Town Private Hire: 07838 167117 / Ace Cars: 0777 623 7310 / Medstead Executive Cars: 01420 562210