Milestone South East Of Pear Tree Cottage

This is a milestone from the early 19th century located south east of Pear Tree Cottage in Lasham. It is made of triangular Portland stone and has a flat top, with two cast iron plaques attached to its sides. The plaque facing northeast reads 'Alton 4', while the one on the southwest says 'B'stoke 7'.

Historically, this milestone marks the turnpike road between Alton and Basingstoke, which was first authorized by an Act of Parliament in 1795 and renewed in 1816. The Act required the installation of milestones along the route, so this stone was likely erected shortly after the legislation was passed. The first edition of the Ordnance Survey map indicates that it remains in its original location.

Milestones are significant as they are among the few physical remnants of historic road use in the UK. The turnpike roads established in the 18th and 19th centuries were crucial for British road transport, and the milestones that accompanied them serve as important reminders of that era. This milestone is well-preserved and serves as a marker for the turnpike road between Alton and Basingstoke. It is part of a group with another surviving milestone, and together they represent a significant survival of the markers that would have indicated each mile between the two towns. Additionally, it has group value with nearby listed buildings.