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INFORMATION ON ALTON

The market town of Alton is set in a valley below the north downs just off the 'Pilgrims Way' and close to one of the sources of the River Wey.

In bygone days it was the thriving centre of activities including weaving, tanning, paper making and latterly brewing which is still carried on. With the progress of time many other local industries have arrived and together with expansion of residential development provides a charming country town ideally placed for the London commuter by train (Waterloo just over one hour). There are also excellent road communications to the West Country via the M3 motorway, access at Basingstoke and M4 motorway having access at Reading. In addition, the A32 and the nearby A3 serve the south coastal regions. Heathrow and Gatwick airports are within about one hour by road and the principal towns of Guildford, Winchester and Southampton are also within a short drive.

The town boasts a fine Sports Centre with three pools, sports hall, squash courts, bar and restaurant and an outdoor flood lit activities area. Other sports and recreational facilities in the town and nearby include a cinema, bowls clubs, tennis courts, cricket, rugby and football pitches at Anstey Park, a selection of golf courses and gliding at Lasham airfield.

Notable villages within the vicinity include Chawton renowned for its connections with Jane Austen, Selborne immortalised by Gilbert White and Farringdon where Gilbert White served as church curate. There are many scenic walks and rides in the surrounding hills and countryside which include many acres of Forestry Commission land both at Chawton Park Wood (between the villages of Beech and Four Marks) and at Alice Holt Woodland Park near the Surrey border at Bentley. The National Trust also manages Selborne Hanger and Common together with other areas of Selborne village.

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