Travel through the decades on a vintage railway

The Watercress Line invites you to explore the changes in road, rail, music, and more from the 40s to the 70s. Travel through the decades aboard a heritage train and step back in time at each of the four stations, where a different era will be brought to life with themed music, vehicles, and activities. For an immersive time-travel experience, vintage outfits are encouraged!

Retro Wheels & Rails at The Watercress Line.
13 to 14 June. 

Pick up some local lavender products

Long Barn is a must-visit in the summer, when their Heritage Collection lavender is in peak season and the gardens are bursting with colour and fragrance. Take time to wander through the rows and soak up the peaceful surroundings. After exploring the gardens, stop by the café for a sweet treat or a refreshing drink, then head into the barn, where you’ll find a carefully curated selection of local goods, gifts and homeware, alongside their signature range of home-grown lavender products.

Test your sleuthing skills at a murder mystery evening

All aboard the Murder Mystery Train, an Agatha Christie-inspired live-action whodunnit on The Watercress Belle. As you journey through the Hampshire countryside, a cast of actors in full theatrical costume will reveal clues about the murder. A three-course dinner will be served up as you puzzle through the crime until the final dénouement, when the murderer is revealed. Each experience tells a new story, so you can test your sleuthing skills again and again!

Murder Mystery Evenings at The Watercress Line.
27 June and 29 August.

Relax in a waterside pub garden

While The Globe's cosy timber‑framed interior and roaring fire make it the ideal winter warmer, this 15th‑century pub really shines on a sunny day. The grassy pub garden sits on the bank of Alresford Pond, offering lovely views to enjoy alongside great food and a refreshing drink. After a family day at The Watercress Line or a scenic riverside walk, be sure to stop by and soak up one of Alresford’s best outdoor spots.

Have Sunday lunch in a first class carriage

Enjoy a fine dining experience aboard the historic Watercress Line. The menu is a contemporary take on the traditional Sunday roast, featuring a three-course menu crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, plus a delicious wine list. The Pullman-style carriages are a vintage-lover's dream, with rich upholstery, original wooden interiors and cosy table lamps. Don't miss this unforgettable summer experience!

The Royal Wessex Fine Dining Sunday Lunch at The Watercress Line.
14 June, 28 June, 19 July, 2 August and 30 August.

Take a stroll along the River Alre

The Alre Valley Trail is a circular route branching off the Millennium Trail. This gentle walk winds through some of Alresford’s most picturesque spots, including the charming thatched Fulling Mill, the historic Eel House, and stretches of river rich with birdlife. Taking 1-2 hours to complete, it’s a relaxed way to explore the area while still leaving plenty of time to enjoy the town afterwards.

Enjoy local pints on board a steam train

The Watercress Line's famous Real Ale Train is back, serving up the perfect summer night out. Get your pint-drinking pals together to try a selection of local ale and cider at only £4.50 a pint or £2.50 for a half pint. The train departs from Alton at 7pm, doing two round trips before returning to the station at 10:30pm, giving you plenty of time to try the local brews and grab a bite to eat on board. Book in advance to get a FREE pint voucher with every ticket.

The Real Ale Train at The Watercress Line.
13 June, 27 June, 18 July, 25 July, 1 August and 29 August.

Visit a spectacular National Trust garden

No summer is complete without a visit to a National Trust property. Just four miles outside of Alresford, Hinton Ampner is best known for its sweeping views of the South Downs, striking sculptured topiaries, and gorgeous flowers in bloom. Once you've reached full zen, be sure to pop by the café (a National Trust scone is a must) and mooch around the second-hand bookshop tucked in the corner of the stable courtyard.

Spend the day with Thomas & Friends™

Bring the whole family along for a fun-filled day with Thomas & Friends™! Ride behind Thomas on a real steam engine, meet your favourite characters, and dance along at the Music Corner. Your ticket includes unlimited train travel for the entire day, so you can enjoy all the rides and activities across the station platforms.

Day Out With Thomas at The Watercress Line.
4 to 9 August. 

Eat at a Michelin award-winning restaurant

Alresford is home to a fantastic selection of independent eateries, but for exceptional dining that doesn’t break the bank, Pulpo Negro is the go-to spot. Bringing authentic Spanish cuisine to the heart of Hampshire, this popular tapas restaurant and bar has held a Michelin Bib Gourmand since 2014. Each dish is packed with bold, vibrant flavours; just one bite is enough to transport you to the Mediterranean, whatever the English weather may be!

Experience the sights and sounds of diesel traction

Join a weekend celebration of heritage diesel traction as powerful locomotives take on the line’s steep gradients. You'll have plenty of chances to enjoy the distinctive sights and sounds of classic and modern diesel trains in action, with special appearances from guest locomotives and more exciting announcements to come!

Diesel Gala at The Watercress Line.
10 to 12 July.