Flying sites

Take-off – Coward's bowl

Direction: NNEESESSWWNW
Coordinates: 51.1087, -2.2773
Altitude: 187 m
Region: Wiltshire, GB
Landing: 0.2 km from the take-offView on map ↗

Take-off description

Anywhere in the bowl facing into the prevailing wind. Paragliders should not launch directly in front of rigging hang glider pilots. Be aware that in stronger winds it may not be possible to penetrate out from the bowl. Also be aware that horses may be using the bridlepath running up the spur and may be spooked by inflating gliders.

Getting there

There are two ways to reach this site with the first being much kinder to your car given the current state of the track that runs across the top of the Downs. From Mere follow the B3092 in a NE direction out of town and up a steep hill for about 1.5 miles. At a gravel parking area turn sharp left onto a cinder track heading WNW. After half a mile you will pass the collection of gates where the access to the Rifle Range Site can be found on the left. A further 400m will bring you to the stile just before the aerial, again on your left. Park and walk across the field to a gate from where you can clearly see the flying bowl. Leave Frome going south on the B3092. Two miles after Maiden Bradley, turn left, immediately after the Red Lion pub, into Long Lane. (The Red Lion is under the red circle.) Follow the main track for about two miles until you see a water works site with a large aerial in a field to the right. Access to the site is along the small track to the works and then through a gate to the left. Close all gates. It is the bowl next to the rifle range.

Rules / airspace

Can be difficult to get away from as you have to commit to leaving at a lower height than is usual. Be aware of the Salisbury Plain ranges which are 7 miles to the NE. Beware of the wild-life park at Longleat, 4 miles to the N.

Comments

Park on the main track, without blocking it or the gates into the surrounding fields. Do not drive into any of the fields.