Cheesefoot Head
Cheesefoot Head is a large natural amphitheatre near Winchester, England, also known as Matterley Bowl. It sits along the A272 road on the South Downs Way. There are three bowl-shaped mounds on the site. The east, south and west slopes form a 13.4-hectare protected nature area with chalk grassland. Cattle and rabbits graze the slopes. The area supports a range of downland grasses, especially fescues and bents, and herbs such as dwarf thistle and fragrant orchid. In World War II, boxing events were held here to entertain American troops, and General Eisenhower spoke to the troops before D-Day. The site has hosted many music festivals and concerts over the years, including Boomtown (since 2010), Creamfields (began in 1998), Homelands (1999–2005) and Glade (2009). It is seen as an important place in the roots of dance and electronic music. Next to it is the Matterley Basin motocross track, which has hosted major events like the World Championship round and Motocross of Nations. The Tough Mudder endurance events have also taken place here.
This page was last edited on 3 February 2026, at 08:30 (CET).