Draycott
Site Map
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Wind directions:
SSW,SW
Location:
Site News
Parking
Permission:
Avon members only
Site Officer:
Geoffrey Rogers
Restrictions:
Soaring only, no top-to-bottoms.
Lat, Long:
51.254135 N 2.722145 W
Launch height (ft)
760
Grid ref:
Height TTB (ft)
730
Take off
Located above the stone wall on the front of the hill just before the corner where it turns downhill, about 200 yards to the west of the hut. This is a shallow incline and requires a committed run on a hang glider.
Local Flying
This site is very sensitive to wind direction. As a general rule do not fly if the wind is coming from a direction to the east of Glastonbury Tor. Look out for the sea breeze which can switch the wind off the hill. The ridge is shared with the gliding club which operates from a field about half a mile north-west of take-off, so keep a look out for them. When good, the whole area provides plenty of lift but on other days you can find yourself at take-off height scratching just above the trees. Weak wave has been encountered several times at this site. The area to the south is part of Yeovilton AIAA so, when flying out in front, keep a look out for military aircraft. Height here is limited by Bristol CTA so please check restrictions before flying. Be aware of the Halesland block A. (See http://www.avonhgpg.co.uk/files/bath_gap_v6.pdf)
XC Flying
Two miles down wind there is a small firing range, so watch out for red flags. The downwind route is of no use for XC as you'll run into Bristol Airport CTA. To fly any distance you must track east before turning down wind. Check out an airspace map as the CTA extends east to Bath.
Top Landing
In the car park field. Beware of the power line which runs along the northern edge of the uncultivated field.
Bottom Landing
There is no official bottom landing field, but there is a field just below take-off which can be used to avoid going all the way to the bottom, although a landing in it requires great skill and judgement. The field generally used is in front of the woods to the west. This field slopes away from the hill and landings are usually made towards the hill as there is little or no wind. Ask an experienced pilot before flying. Keep out of all fields containing livestock, especially horses.
Additional Info