Watercress Line

Journey Time: 1 hour

Time at Destination: 3.5 Hours (including train ride)

No comfort stop on route

Train departure -1300 (round trip)

Enjoy a nostalgic steam train journey on the Watercress Line from Alresford and back, taking in the scenic beauty of the Hampshire countryside. Begin your trip with time to explore the charming market town of Alresford, known for its independent shops, riverside walks, and picturesque Georgian streets. Then, step aboard the heritage steam train and relax as you travel through rolling fields, quaint villages, and historic stations, immersing yourself in the golden age of steam travel.

As part of your experience, enjoy a delicious Ploughman’s Lunch, either cheese or ham, crusty bread, pickles & local watercress salad – the perfect compliment to your leisurely journey. Whether you're a railway enthusiast or simply looking for a unique day out, this classic trip offers a delightful blend of history & heritage.

The Watercress Line, formally known as the Mid Hants Railway, is a heritage steam railway in Hampshire, England, that stretches for ten miles between Alton and New Alresford. The line originally opened in 1865 as part of the larger network operated by the London & South Western Railway, facilitating a vital transport link for passengers and goods across the region. It gained its affectionate nickname from the lucrative trade in watercress that thrived in the area, which was transported to markets in London. As a vital part of local commerce, the railway not only supported agriculture but also fostered economic growth in the surrounding towns.

However, like many rural lines, the Watercress Line faced closure during the Beeching cuts in the mid-20th century, with its passenger services being withdrawn in 1973. The line's closure sparked a vigorous local campaign for preservation led by railway enthusiasts and regional historians who recognized its cultural and historical importance. By 1977, efforts to revive the railway bore fruit as the Mid Hants Railway Preservation Society successfully reopened part of the line for heritage journeys. Today, the Watercress Line is fully operational, offering passengers a nostalgic ride through picturesque countryside on its beautifully restored steam locomotives, and it continues to celebrate and preserve the rich history of rail transport in Hampshire.