Farley Mount Country Park
Sparsholt, Hampshire
Farley Mount Country Park sits on a chalk ridge above Sparsholt west of Winchester, with ancient woodland, open downland, and a pyramid-shaped monument at the highest point that most people have never heard of.
The monument has a good story. In 1733, a local landowner’s horse fell 25 feet into a chalk pit while fox-hunting, survived unhurt, and the following year won a race at Winchester under the name Beware Chalk Pit. The horse is buried under the pyramid.
Most of the walk runs through West Wood and Crab Wood - ancient broadleaf woodland with hazel coppice and oak. The gravelled paths hold up well in most weathers, though woodland sections can get muddy after prolonged rain. Your dog can go off lead throughout the woodland; keep them on a lead if you encounter cattle on the chalk downland sections, where seasonal grazing is part of the land management.
Ticks are a consistent hazard here - this is one of the tick-heavier sites in Hampshire. Check your dog carefully after every visit.
There are no facilities in the park. The Plough Inn in Sparsholt, about two miles away, welcomes dogs throughout and has a doggy menu.
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs be off lead at Farley Mount?
Yes - Farley Mount is an excellent off-lead destination. The woodland paths and open areas are well suited to off-lead walking. The main exception is if you encounter cattle on the chalk downland sections - keep dogs on lead around livestock.
What is the pyramid on top of the hill?
A monument built by local landowner Paulet St John in the 1730s to commemorate his horse, which survived a 25-foot fall into a chalk pit while fox-hunting in 1733 - and then went on to win a race at Winchester the following year under the name “Beware Chalk Pit.” The horse is buried beneath the monument. The current pyramid structure dates from an 1870 restoration and is Grade II listed.
Are there ticks at Farley Mount?
Yes - consistently described as one of the tick-heaviest sites in the area. Use tick prevention before visiting and check your dog thoroughly after every walk. Carry tick removal tools. Ticks are most active spring through autumn.
Is there parking and are there facilities?
Parking is free in several car parks off Sarum Road (SO21 2JG for the main car park near the monument). There are no facilities within the park - no cafe, no toilets, no dog water taps. Bring water and food. The nearest pub is The Plough Inn in Sparsholt (SO21 2NW).
Plan this walk with live weather and dog-safe route info