In December 1643, the Battle of Alton emerged as a notable confrontation in the midst of the English Civil War. The conflict arose as the Royalist forces, loyal to King Charles I, sought to reassert their influence in Hampshire, while Parliamentarian troops aimed to maintain their foothold in the region. The battle stemmed from the broader context of the war, which was characterized by disputes over governance, individual rights, and the power of monarchy versus parliamentary rule. Alton, being strategically located, became a focal point for both sides.

The engagement saw approximately 3,200 Royalist soldiers, commanded by Sir William Waller, face off against Parliamentarian troops under the leadership of Sir John Gage. The skirmish involved intense fighting in the streets of Alton, with both sides deploying tactics involving cavalry and infantry maneuvers to seize control. The Parliamentarians managed to hold their ground after fierce resistance, which exemplified the tenacity and determination of these troops in their fight against the Royalist forces.

While the battle was not among the largest engagements of the Civil War, it played a vital role in intensifying the conflict in Hampshire, leading to further skirmishes in the region. It also illustrated the broader military and political struggles between the two factions, shaping the dynamics of control as the war progressed. In the aftermath, the Parliamentarians fortified their positions in Hampshire, offering a temporary reprieve from Royalist advances.