TRAIN: Watercress Line, Hampshire
Steam on the South Downs
Step back in time as you travel along a famous heritage railway, with Duncan Haskell
For both children and adults, a ride on the Watercress Line is like stepping into the pages of classic literature. Evoking memories of places you’ve never visited and times you never knew, there is just something about steam locomotive travel that stimulates the senses like no other form of transport.
Skirting the idyllic countryside of the South Downs National Park, the line runs for 10 miles between the Hampshire towns of Alton and Alresford, and originally opened in October 1865 as a way of connecting the existing lines at Alton and Winchester.
Its creation enabled the establishment of commercial watercress growing in the area, as this highly perishable product could now be swiftly transported to London.
VINTAGE VIBES
So what does a day on the Watercress Line look like in 2022? A typical itinerary, starting from and returning to Alton, takes in the stations of Ropley, Alresford and Medstead & Four Marks. As well as enjoying the stunning views and joys of steam travel, each station gives you a glimpse of what life would have been like along the line back in its heyday.
Special themed days are organised throughout the summer. This year, families can take a ride with the famous tank engine on a Day Out With Thomas (6–14 August). There’s also a 50s-and-60s themed weekend (27–29 August), complete with vintage displays at the stations, live music, dancing and a traditional fête. Further ahead, enthusiasts can enjoy three days of nostalgic journeys during the Autumn Steam Gala (7–9 October), and the Steam Illuminations are a must for your festive calendar.
STOP AT THE STATION
If you don’t fancy a trip on a train, the line is still well worth a visit. The West Country Buffet at Alresford Station serves organic, locally sourced produce; their ‘Shunter Breakfasts’ are an ideal way to start any day. For those who like to fill their minds as well as their stomachs, the Railway Museum in the Goods Shed at Alresford Station tells the line’s history and has enough memorabilia to satisfy even the most ardent ferroequinologist.
For the sights, smells, sounds and all-round experience, nothing beats climbing aboard a stunning old steam engine and setting off down the tracks.
Route details:
The Watercress Line runs from Alton to Alresford or Alresford to Alton and stops at Medstead & Four Marks and Ropley stations. An advance adult ticket costs £20; a ticket for children aged 5–16 is £10. watercressline.co.uk
Duncan Haskell is the editor of Songwriting Magazine and has a passion for rural tales.