Cheesefoot Head
Site of Special Scientific Interest
LocationHampshire
Grid referenceSU 528 281[1]
InterestBiological
Area13.4 hectares (33 acres)[1]
Notification1986[1]
Location mapMagic Map

Cheesefoot Head (/ˈtʃɛsfʊt/) is a large natural amphitheatre (also known as Matterley Bowl) and beauty spot just outside Winchester, England. It is situated on the A272 road (South Downs Way). There are three bowl barrows on the site.[2] The east, south and west walls of the amphitheatre are a 13.4-hectare (33-acre) biological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).[1][3]

The SSSI is a steeply sloping area of chalk grassland, which is grazed by cattle and rabbits. There is a full range of downland grass species, especially fescues and bents. Herbs include dwarf thistle and fragrant orchid.[4]

During the Second World War boxing events were held here for the entertainment of American troops stationed locally, and prior to D-Day, General Eisenhower addressed those troops.[5]

References

  1. ^ a b c d "Designated Sites View: Cheesefoot Head". Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Natural England. Retrieved 9 May 2020.
  2. ^ "The Modern Antiquarian: Cheesefoot Head Barrows". www.themodernantiquarian.com. Retrieved 25 October 2019.
  3. ^ "Map of Cheesefoot Head". Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Natural England. Retrieved 9 May 2020.
  4. ^ "Cheesefoot Head citation" (PDF). Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Natural England. Retrieved 9 May 2020.
  5. ^ "Hampshire Cam UK - The Photographic Rambles of a Retired Photographer". www.hampshirecam.co.uk. Retrieved 21 October 2009.
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51°03′00″N 1°14′56″W / 51.050°N 1.249°W / 51.050; -1.249

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