Hettie's Dog Parks

Hettie's Dog Parks near Thatcham is exactly what it sounds like - a properly dedicated space where dogs can run about without a lead in sight. The setup is straightforward: fenced areas designed so your dog can actually burn off some energy rather than just plodding round on a lead. It's the sort of place that makes sense when you're staying nearby at Hollington Park Glamping and realise your spaniel has been cooped up in the car.

The real appeal here is simple. If you've got a dog that needs proper exercise, this saves you from endless walks around residential streets. You get to watch them actually play - chase other dogs, dig in the dirt, do dog things. No pretence. It's not a leisure destination for humans; there's no café or Instagram moment waiting. This is functional and honest.

Bring water for the dog, arrive early if you want fewer crowds, and allow at least an hour if your pooch is the social type. It works brilliantly as a mid-morning stop during a Hampshire week - tire them out before lunch, then you've got a calmer afternoon. Worth ringing ahead to check current opening hours as details are thin on the ground, but for anyone with an energetic dog and a glamping break booked locally, it's worth the short drive from Thatcham.