Harting Down

Harting Down is a great choice for dogs, earning a solid 8/10 on our dog-friendly rating. The 6.4 km circuit across open chalk grassland offers plenty of fresh air, wide-open space, and stimulating hilltop views , the kind of walk dogs tend to love. Just be prepared to keep your dog on a lead for much of the route due to the high density of grazing sheep.

Off-lead potential is moderate , there are some sections where dogs can roam freely, but livestock is present extensively across the chalk grassland, so leads are essential for most of the route. Sheep graze throughout, so it's important to be vigilant and have reliable recall before letting your dog off. If your dog is easily distracted by livestock, expect to keep them leashed for the majority of the walk.

The exposed ridge means wind and weather hit harder here than on more sheltered walks, so it's worth checking the forecast and choosing a settled day if possible , though some people love it in bracing conditions. The chalk paths can get slippery after rain, so good footwear helps, but in dry weather the firm turf is excellent underfoot. Parking is at the National Trust car park (GU31 5PN) for £3 a day, free for NT members, and there's a White Hart pub nearby if you fancy a post-walk stop.