Places to Visit in Alton (Which Aren’t the Towers)

The town of Alton is truly sublime with rural surroundings waiting to please the appreciating eyes of scenery loving visitors. It’s true that these days when we think of Alton, we immediately conjure up visions of the theme park. There’s nothing wrong with that as the theme park is quite remarkable. However there are other attractions in the area which don’t involve being flung upside down or thrust through a loop at 80 mph. There are many other things to do once you’ve had your thrills on the rides.

Churnet Valley railway

Just a short drive away from Alton, the railway is located in Cheddleton Village. From Cheddleton Station, the route passes through some of the most glorious spots and boasts breathtaking panoramic views including nature reserves and limekilns. The trip finishes at Kingsley and FrogHall station.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Dominic Sayers

Blackbook Zoological Park

Located in Winkhill, the zoo is a fantastic opportunity to observe and get up close with some of the world’s rarest species. This is a great day out and very popular with children of all ages. The staffs at the zoo are very accommodating and friendly and can cater for large groups as well as families.

Photo by admin

Carsington Water

If you still fancy a little bit more exhilaration after the theme park, then why not get down to Carsington Water. Here you can indulge in the various aqua pursuits such as wind surfing, sailing, kayaking, canoeing and power boats. There is also a newly installed outdoor climbing tower for the equally adventurous.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Loz Pycock

Historic Buildings

For those keen on history, you will find many great examples to feast upon. Located in Bakewell, Haddon hall is a fortified medieval house which dates back to the 12th century. It was the setting for the film Pride and Prejudice starring Keira Knightly and has been owned by Lord and Lady Edward Manners since 1567. Also there is Croxden Abbey which houses some beautiful unspoilt remains which used to be home to the Cistercian White Monks in the 13th century.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Rob Glover

Dimmings Dale

A perfect way to round off the day would be to embark upon the wonderful setting that is Dimmings Dale. Very close to Alton and the Alton Towers theme park, the land is owned by the Forestry Commission and boasts scenery that is second to none in the area. Take a leisurely stroll around the grounds and you will feel like you are in another world. The water features are unique and will provide plenty of opportunities to take those all important photographs. Mountain biking is another to enjoy the area and the Dale has many bridle ways which the keen cyclist can utilise to further enhance their enjoyment. Once you are a little worn out, then take a break and relax at the Rambler’s Retreat where you can rest your feet and enjoy a cup of tea and cake.

All in all, Alton is a fun filled and extremely interesting place to visit and there is as we have seen something for everyone!

This collection of places to check out in and around Alton was written by Alton Towers Breaks, offering hotel stays in and around alton towers!

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Tags: blackbook, breathtaking panoramic views, carsington water, england, exhilaration, haddon hall, historic buildings, kingsley, large groups, loving visitors, nature, nature reserves, power boats, pride and prejudice, sayers, theme park, town of alton, United Kingdom, valley railway, wind surfing, zoological park

Category: Nature, Nature