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Alton
Alton is a small village in Staffordshire that is mostly recognised by many as the site of the famous theme park Alton Towers that was constructed around the site of the former Alton Mansion that was owned by the Earls of Shrewsbury. The village is situated in the East side of the Churnet valley and is mentioned in the Domesay Book. Alton is a village of special architectural interest thanks to a number of unique buildings such as the Round-House, Alton Castle, St Peter's Church, The Malt House, St John's Church and Alton Mansion. Alton is an ancient village that was first recorded in 716 CE but the castle can be traced back to around 1000 CE thanks to literary references. The castle provided security for all of the surrounding villages and in 1150 CE it was rebuilt in stone as the original wooden structure was deemed too weak.
Alton has always been considered an important trading area and many of the hotels, pubs and hostels in the area date back to the origins of Alton itself and were constructed to take advantage of the trade in passing caravans. The famous Round House was constructed in 1830 CE as the village of Alton was suffering from the rowdy behaviour of many patrons and visitors, in part due to the sheer volume of pubs and taverns in the area. Many people visit the area to view the church of St. Peter, this historic landmark was constructed in 1178 by Bertrum de Verdun and had to be partially rebuilt many times throughout its life due to various attacks on the castle walls.
It is constructed in the style of a Norman Church and contains many original features and the tower and northern aisles are genuine original components from the first time the church was erected. Alton was famous thanks to the sixteenth Earl of Shrewsbury (affectionately known as the "good Earl John") who cared for the poor and needy of the district from the village of Alton itself. It was this that prompted Augustus Welby Pugin to design and construct the church of St John's as a hospice, school and sheltered housing for those less fortunate on Castle Hill. Alton is also famous for being the site of many stunning walks throughout the countryside, the surrounding scenery and villages are set in beautiful scenery and the view from Toothill is recognised as being one of the best views in the UK.
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