Cheesefoot Head and Matterley Bowl Circular
Hampshire
Cheesefoot Head and Matterley Bowl form a vast natural amphitheatre in the chalk downland east of Winchester, the bowl's sweeping curves creating one of the most dramatic landforms on the Hampshire Downs. This 7.2 km circular follows the rim of the bowl with views across the entire formation before looping through the surrounding farmland and chalk tracks. The 183 m of climbing comes in steady rises along the downland ridges, and the terrain is open, exposed chalk grassland throughout with very little shelter. The scale of the landscape is striking, with the bowl's concave slopes amplifying the sense of space and elevation.
This is a dog friendly walk that suits dogs who thrive on open, windswept ground. The chalk downland carries scent well on the constant breeze, and the firm, dry tracks provide good footing year-round. Off-lead potential is limited as livestock graze the surrounding farmland and downland, so leads should be carried and used where sheep are present. The exposed nature of the route means weather conditions should be checked in advance, as there is nowhere to shelter in poor weather. There is no water access on the route, so carrying water is essential. The combination of dramatic landform, open views and firm chalk walking gives this route a character quite different from the wooded valleys and river walks that dominate much of Hampshire.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 7.2 km (4.5 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 2 hr
- Walk Type
- Peak
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Low
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- None
- Parking
- Layby parking at Cheesefoot Head on A272
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cheesefoot Head and Matterley Bowl Circular dog friendly?
Yes, Cheesefoot Head and Matterley Bowl Circular is rated 8 out of 10 for dog friendliness. It's a great choice for dogs that love open, windswept spaces , the firm chalk tracks provide good footing throughout the year, and the constant breeze carries scent well, which many dogs find particularly engaging.
Can dogs be off lead at Cheesefoot Head and Matterley Bowl Circular?
Off-lead opportunities are limited on this route, as livestock graze the surrounding farmland and downland. You should carry a lead and put it on wherever sheep are present, so it's best suited to dogs with a reliable recall in open countryside.
What should I know before visiting Cheesefoot Head and Matterley Bowl Circular with my dog?
There are two key things to plan for: there is no water access anywhere on the route, so bring enough for both you and your dog, and there is no shelter at all on this exposed chalk downland, so it's worth checking the weather forecast before you set off. The 7.2 km circular starts from a layby on the A272 at Cheesefoot Head, and there are no other facilities on site.
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