Cats Tor
Notice
Bradwell is not a DSC site for legal reasons, but is included ‘for information only’ since pilots may end up soaring this site (ie. on a downwind XC from Mam Tor NW) and it is therefore important that the safety information regarding this site is included here. The bottom landing field at Bradwell is maintained by the DSC for the safety of pilots crossing this area on XC. Nothing in this guide condones the practice of taking off from Bradwell itself.
Characteristics
A good soaring site in westerly winds. The ridge can be flown south to Shining Tor (a Peak Club site). Top landing is fairly narrow and landings must be made in front of the wall to avoid the rotor behind. Cats Tor is a shared site with the Peak Club.
Safety
Becomes rough if the wind is too far off to the south. There is often turbulence at low level between Cats Tor and Shining Tor. Beware of rotor behind the wall on your top landing approach. The fields in front of take-off slope away very steeply. Paraglider pilots who go down here should note that there is a very high wall (about l0ft. high) running along the base of the ridge. If you are going down break right to land on the plateau below Pym Chair. Beware Manchester CTA, which at 3000′ above sea level gives not much more than 1000′ clear above take off.
When going down to the bottom landing fields, keep a good look out for model aircraft which may be using the lower part of the ridge.
Restrictions
The alternative bottom landing by the car park is closed during April for bird nesting. Shining Tor nearby is a site for Peak Club members only.
Details
Status
Open
Wind Window
W – NW
Altitude
460m (1509 ft)
Location
Goyt Valley area
Launch Location
SJ 994 759 1640
Landing Location
SJ 994 766
Pilot Requirements
CP+ 10 Hours
Airspace
3000 ft QNH
Hospital
Stepping Hill, Stockport
Site Officer
Steve Hudson
Parking and Access
Park in the car park north of the ridge, 150 yds. along the road to Kettleshulme. If flying XC do not leave your car overnight without informing Buxton Police. (01298 72100)
Cats Tor can be reached by a minor road running from the Errwood Reservoir to the A5002, or from the A537 by a road passing the Lamaload Reservoir. From the car park walk up to the highest point of the ridge as shown on the map, Do Not take-off from the low ridge close to the road (different owner) . If landing below Pym Chair walk to the exit, Do Not climb the fence by the road. If landing by the car park, exit via the gap in the fence in the corner of the car park, or by the stile in the far right corner.