Dale Head
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
This is generally a good safe site with a nice friendly flat, soft top landing. Dale Head can often be flown when it would be too windy to fly Mam Tor. It is a good site for low airtime pilots who can soar confidently. XC potential is very limited because of airspace restrictions and no progress can be made downwind beyond Whaley Bridge. However, it is excellent for ‘training hops’ back to Chinley Churn.
Safety
Beware of rotor in the gulley south of take-off when the wind is off to the south.
Restrictions
No Access from Dale Head Farm. Only top land or bottom land in the designated field; no slope landings are permitted, as there is an important Nature Reserve with very restricted access in the valley immediately below.
Special Rules
Do not fly this site unless you are absolutely sure that the conditions and your ability will allow you to either stay up or land in the designated field. This site may be shared with model aircraft.
Details
Status
Open
Wind Window
NE-ESE
Altitude
480m (1570 ft)
Location
Edale Valley
Launch Location
SK 096 838
Landing Location
SK 104 846
Pilot Requirements
CP
Airspace
FL45
Hospital
Northern General
Site Officer
Stuart Harvey
Parking and Access
There is limited parking on the A625 2 miles from the junction with the A6, grid reference SK 093 825.
No direct approach can be made from the valley below via Dale Head Farm. The usual approach is from the parking place on the A625 via a bridleway to Chapel Gate. At the hilltop turn north until the track begins to descend, then follow a vague path along the rim to take off. Alternatively approach from Edale via Barber Booth and the Chapel Gate track which runs through the Lords Seat bottom landing field, (this is longer, with more uphill).