recommend the following places:
What's Going On in Alton?
Jane Austen Museum.
There are few names in literature that are as immediately recognisable as Jane Austen. Her novels give a deep and moving insight into the world of pre-industrial England.
The museum at Chawton is at the house where Austen spent the last eight years of her life and it is now preserved for all of us. It is a perfect day out, and an excellent way to discover the unwritten tale of Austen's life.
They're open daily, except June thh 5th (for the Queens Jubilee)
Alton Craft Market
You know what to expect at a craft market - cards, pottery, soft furnishings, glass, original photography, wood work - and Alton's market is a great example of one!
The market is held on the second Saturday of each month from March to December 10am to 3pm, except in August, when it's held on the first Saturday. Click here to get all the info.
Gilbert White's House & Garden and The Oates Collection
Billed as "A heritage of discovery in the Heart of Hampshire...", there is an awful lot to see and experience at Gilbert White's House & Garden - beautiful views, artefacts, collections, gifts, and conference and wedding facilities too. Indeed, see what they have to say:
"Having paid admission,our guests are free to come and go as often as they please that day. View the House and Museum, go for a walk around the delightful gardens and through the Park to see the follies, take tea in the Parlour and shop in the old billiard room. Time and energy permitting, walk up the famous Gilbert White's Zigzag through the hanging beechwoods, return and tour the grounds. Or just sit and look at one of the most delightful views in the South of England."
Sound like a good place to visit? Click here to see what to expect...
Alton Information
Surely one of the prettiest and most historically significant market towns in the South-East (Jane Austen is from neighbouring Chawton), Alton is a fantastic place to visit. Beautiful buildings, loads of pubs and restaurants and plenty of things to do!
Along with the usual cinemas and shopping facilities, Alton boasts some great little haunts, such as the Curtis Museum and the Allen Gallery. There's plenty of theatrical performances at the Assembly Rooms and the Alton Maltings, too!
Surrounding Villages
Beech, Chawton, Farringdon, Froyle, Golden Pot, Holybourne, Lasham, Shalden, Thedden
