Black Combe (West)
South West Lakes - nr Millom
WNW - WSW
Overview
Generally smooth with extensive soaring.
Being only 1500m inland the area is not renowned for its thermals.
Either take off can be used depending on wind direction.
The southern end is the easier carry with an excellent top landing area.
This is a safe and enjoyable place to fly for all pilots.
Important!
Avoid the south end of the site during the lambing season.
Ask at the appropriate farm for permission
Public telephones are at Valley End and Whitbeck.
Local pilot rep: Keith Paterson 07841 056727
Access
Car park OS grid ref: SD112865
Getting There
Overlooks east side of A595 (Whitehaven to Greenoddd road on the A590) south of Bootle. See map for parking areas. Only about 4 cars at both places; park as tight as possible. More car parking further up the road on the left.
Getting to takeoff
A footpath (signed) starts 1.6 km south of Bootle (limited parking). Follow footpath across field through two gates and onto open fell either straight up or road the back. Take off is just above a rocky outcrop
Permission to use site
Monk Foss Farm, Stangrah Farm; Townend Farm, Whitbeck; Hole Ghyll Farm; Parsonage Farm for the bottom landing field below the SE face; Far End Farm.
Flying
Hazards
Beware of the pronounced horizontal component to the wind over the shallower upper slopes.
Some interesting challenges exist; study the maps of the area.
Paragliding
No vices.
Either take off can be used depending upon whether wind is south or north of west.
This is a great site for low airtime pilots as it often provides smooth and extensive lift.
Hang Gliding
As for PG but the north take off requires a bit of a carry and is more awkward to top land.
Bottom landings are often done in fields through which a footpath runs. However, Monk Foss fields are the official ones. ask at Moss Foss.
XC potential
Great potential but only 36km for now
