Alton facts for kids

Alton is a name that can refer to different places, mostly towns and villages. When you see a name like Alton, it might be talking about one of these locations.

Places Named Alton in the United Kingdom

Alton, Hampshire

Alton is a historic market town in the county of Hampshire, England. It has a long history, with evidence of people living there since the Stone Age.

History of Alton, Hampshire

• Early Times: The area around Alton has been settled for thousands of years. Roman coins and pottery have been found, showing it was important even then.
• Saxon Era: The name "Alton" comes from Old English words meaning "at the spring" or "at the source of the river." This suggests it was a place with fresh water.
• Medieval Period: Alton grew as a market town. It received a royal charter in the 13th century, allowing it to hold regular markets and fairs. This helped the town's economy.
• English Civil War: A famous battle, the Battle of Alton, took place here in 1643 during the English Civil War. Parliamentarian forces won this battle against Royalist troops.
• Modern Alton: Today, Alton is a busy town with shops, schools, and a railway station. It is known for its connection to famous author Jane Austen, who lived nearby in Chawton.

What to See in Alton, Hampshire

• Curtis Museum: This museum tells the story of Alton and the surrounding area, from prehistoric times to the present day.
• Allen Gallery: This gallery displays fine art and ceramics. It's a great place to see beautiful artwork.
• Watercress Line: A heritage railway runs from Alton. You can ride on old steam trains and enjoy the countryside. This line used to transport watercress from local farms to London.

Alton, Staffordshire

Alton is a village in Staffordshire, England, known for its beautiful scenery and a famous theme park.

History of Alton, Staffordshire

• Early Settlements: Like many old English villages, Alton has roots going back centuries. Its location near the River Churnet made it a good place for early communities.
• Alton Towers: The most famous landmark in Alton is Alton Towers. It started as a country estate with a grand house and gardens. Over time, it transformed into a major theme park.
• Victorian Era: In the 19th century, the Earls of Shrewsbury developed the Alton Towers estate. They built impressive gardens and architectural features that are still part of the park today.

Things to Do in Alton, Staffordshire

• Alton Towers Resort: This is one of the UK's largest theme parks. It has many exciting rides, attractions, and beautiful gardens. It's a popular destination for families and thrill-seekers.
• Alton Castle: This historic castle, now a Catholic youth retreat center, has a long history. It was originally a Norman castle.
• Countryside Walks: The area around Alton is very scenic, with hills and valleys, perfect for walking and exploring nature.

See also

In Spanish: Alton para niños