Walking & Dogs

The majority of those using the countryside are walkers, many with dogs. Across Hampshire, Southampton and Portsmouth there are approximately 3,000 miles of ‘definitive’ (legally protected) Rights of Way and numerous ‘permissive’ paths (where use is permitted by the owner), as well as commons, country parks and access over, for example, Forestry Commission lands. We also have one of the largest networks of long-distance paths, which are well-marked and promoted through leaflets, books and the web. Altogether, a significant proportion of the county is open to access on foot by the public.

Please browse among the options on the left.

Information on taking dogs into the countryside is separated from that concerning solely walkers as certain information, including some forum discussion, is exclusive to dogs.

Please take this opportunity to Have your Say and influence your future access to the countryside in Hampshire.