Definition & Meaning of "Hampshire Down"

What is a "Hampshire Down"?

The Hampshire Down is a breed of sheep originally developed in Hampshire, England, known for its large size, meat quality, and distinctive appearance. Hampshire Downs are medium to large-sized sheep with a compact body, black face, and black legs, and a dense, short fleece that is typically white in color. They have a distinctive "teddy bear" appearance due to their stocky build and woolly appearance. Hampshire Downs are known for their high growth rates and excellent meat quality, making them popular for meat production. They have a calm and docile temperament, which makes them relatively easy to handle and manage. Hampshire Downs are often used in commercial meat production systems, and their meat is well-regarded for its tenderness and flavor.