Mid Hants Railway

Mid Hants Railway

Fondly known as the "Watercress Line", running through the heart of Hampshire

Whatever the time of year, there's always lots to do at the Watercress Line, with its 10 miles of track and four beautiful stations to visit by steam or diesel train in the rolling Hampshire countryside. It's nickname arose because of its role in transporting watercress from the beds in Alresford to London and the Midlands.

Fares give you all day unlimited travel, so you can explore all four stations, see behind the scenes in the engineering workshops and visit the nearby towns all on one ticket. Enjoy a delicious lunch, cream tea or slice of cake and a drink at the picturesque West Country Buffet at Alresford station. Get up close to magnificent engines in the loco yard and find out more about restoration projects in the viewing galleries, or let the kids burn off some energy on the play area while you enjoy a picnic at the picturesque Ropley station. Find out more about the role of the Goods clerk at the Delivering the Goods exhibition at Medstead and Four Marks, as well as experiencing the 1 in 60 climb up to the station also known as 'going over the Alps'.

At Alton station you can also continue your journey with our services to London Waterloo - taking just over an hour to reach the capital. This bustling market town has a delightful mix of historic buildings and modern shops, with its own Curtis Museum and Allen Gallery and links to Jane Austen’s House Museum in nearby Chawton.

Throughout the year there are special events including a Day Out With Thomas, War on the Line and Steam Galas as well as a variety of dining trains and the popular Real Ale Train.