Saturday 6 June 2026

Sometimes when I am out and about in the countryside, and I am not wearing my lead, I struggle to
make the right choices. Readers may recall the unfortunate affair on Dartmoor involving a snapped harness, abscondment with phone and car key and numerous members of His Majesty’s Armed Forces. Which is why I was particularly delighted to learn of the opening of two new dedicated dog exercise fields on the edge of one of my favourite local walk areas – Crab Wood in Winchester.

There are two generous-sized fields available – the longer “Oak”, and the slightly larger square “Ash”.  Both have plenty of space for running and games, as well as tunnels, logs and stick piles to sniff at and hand-crafted hazel wattle alleyways.  I have been lucky enough to be able to test both fields.  As you may imagine, I am not widely versed in recent off-lead action, so Miss Roo was interested to see what I would make of the experience.

A little uncertain when my lead was first unclipped, I was soon in my absolute element.  The fields are securely fenced and maintained but enough of the natural outdoor elements remain, with plenty of tempting aromas and opportunities for quality leg-lifting.

Each field also has a bin for our natural leavings, which I know humans particularly love to harvest, as well as bowls and fresh water taps, which were exceedingly welcome after a hearty exercise session.

Each field costs £10 for 50 minutes (more than plenty of time for me).  Further information and the booking portal can be found online at: www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/forpaws. The dog fields have a dedicated parking area, signposted on Sarum Road, Winchester, SO22 5QR. The w3w location is “brisk.confident.skirting”.

These fields are a very welcome addition to the local exercise cannon. Wildlife and livestock can go unmolested, and owners may walk in peace, free of the consequences of poor decision-making of their over-exuberant dogs (hmm).  Already, I sense a palpable relief in certain members of the local deer community – who, inexplicably, are never as happy to see me as I am to see them.

If you visit on Thursdays to Saturdays, Beechcroft Farm is opposite the Dog Field area – their lovely tea barn is open between 10.00 – 16.00 with a tempting array of hot drinks and cakes. Plus their excellent butchery counter.  Nothing like a fresh grilled chop or six after a joyous session in the dog field…