Lords Seat
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 very good soaring site, wave is often encountered here in the right conditions and there is excellent XC potential to the south. The top landing is a very large area to the rear and left of the upper take-off, and has few problems. Hang gliders beware that the bottom landing slopes down to the road. If new to the site, or you have low airtime, seek advice on the bottom landing from an experienced pilot. The steep slope in the bottom field makes it necessary to land across the slope on a hang glider. The wind it usually light in the bottom field and can be variable in direction. If the wind is very light, the best technique is to turn back up the slope and land towards the hill. Assess the wind direction carefully on your approach and observe others landing there.
Additionally, there is an alternative landing for hang gliders (over the back at Rowter Farm SK127821). There is a landing fee of £1 payable to the farmer per pilot and is a safe alternative to top landing and carrying down or bottom landing. Landings must be made at the south end of the field where there is a flat plateau. Turbulence may be present on approach to the landing, but low down it is usually smooth. When multiple pilots have landed please collect all the landing fees together and pay the farmer in one go.
Paragliders may land at Mam Nick, SK124 834 / 463m, but it is not suitable for hang gliders.
Safety
Paragliders should be aware of the spine back on the eastern side of the ridge and make sure they can penetrate here in stronger winds. Beware of hang gliders overshooting on the top take off / landing when close ridge soaring. Hang gliders may opt to land on the western edge of the ridge and carry down in stronger winds or difficult conditions.
Wave effects can create strong turbulence and rapid changes in wind strength and direction on this site.
Details
Status
Open
Wind Window
N (NW to NE)
Altitude
530m (1740 ft)
Location
Edale Valley
Launch Location
Lower SK 119 835
Upper SK 110 835
Landing Location
SK 112 841
SK 124 834
Pilot Requirements
CP
Airspace
FL45
Hospital
Northern General
Site Officer
Stuart Harvey
Restrictions
Low airtime hang glider pilots beware difficult bottom landing.
Special Rules
It is particularly important to ensure clearance from airspace as it is can be very easy for inexperienced pilots to rapidly gain height in wave conditions.
Parking and Access
Use the car park below Mam Nick ONLY (pay and display). You may stop briefly to off-load gliders at Mam Nick. For the bottom landing park in a lay-by close to the bend in the road at the north end of the landing field.
To access, West from Castleton on A625, turn left up the Winnats Pass, right at top, then left, the car park is 500 yards further on the right. Follow the footpath along the crest of the ridge.
Bottom field, Take the Barber Booth road over Mam Nick.