Alton City Guide

Local pubs, Indian, Chinese, and Italian food. Try Sunday roasts and fish and chips. Vegetarian and vegan options exist. Late-night food mostly takeaways.

Nightlife centers on traditional pubs with a relaxed vibe. No major clubs.

A few independent cafes plus chains. Specialty coffee less common locally but available nearby.

Tipping is mostly optional. Around 10-15% in restaurants if service is good. Small tips for taxis and services are appreciated.

SIMs sold at phone shops (EE, Vodafone, O2) and some supermarkets. eSIMs widely available. No ID needed for prepaid.

The town is kept clean with regular waste collection and recycling.

Limited 24/7 services. Some petrol stations and takeaways open late. Emergency hospital care is offsite.

Larger supermarkets stock international products. Open 7 AM - 10 PM weekdays, shorter on Sundays. Major holidays mean closures. No bargaining in stores.

Card payments and contactless are the norm. Cash is rarely needed for daily use.

ATMs are at major banks like Lloyds, Barclays, and NatWest plus supermarkets. Usual UK fees apply, often none with your own bank.

Main schools include Eggar's School and Amery Hill School. Instruction is in English. Admissions via Hampshire County Council.

Limited digital nomad presence; local groups are minimal. Larger cities nearby have more options.

Access to parks like Anstey Park and nearby South Downs National Park for outdoor activities.

Good running paths at Anstey Park and South Downs Way, generally safe with good air quality.

Gyms include sports centre with pool and 24/7 fitness clubs.

Courts at Alton Sports Centre and local tennis clubs; bookings usually online or by phone.

Padel courts are rare locally but present in some regional sports centres.

Several yoga studios available with drop-in classes and English-speaking instructors.

Karate, Taekwondo, and Judo clubs are active with varied drop-in options.

No ski resorts nearby. Closest indoor snow centre is over an hour away.

Kayaking and paddleboarding possible nearby at lakes like Frensham Ponds. Seasonal rentals.

Surf spots are on the coast, too far for day trips from Alton.

Diving is only available at distant coastal locations.

Alton Community Hospital offers local care; larger hospitals nearby. NHS services standard with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like Boots and Lloyds serve OTC needs.

Tap water is safe to drink.

Playgrounds like Anstey Park and kid-friendly cafes exist. Baby supplies available locally. Attractions include the Watercress Line steam railway.

Generally welcoming environment, typical of England. No dedicated LGBTQ+ venues in town but bigger cities nearby offer more.

Many pubs and some cafes welcome dogs. Veterinary services exist. Good dog-walking spots like Anstey Park.