Silecroft
South West Lakes - North of Millom
SW - WSW
Overview
A convenient low level place when other sites are blown out, ie "the Combe".
New fencing has meant a low level take-off, although a better take off now exists a mile further north via a different approach.
Generally very smooth with good lift that allows the site to be extended 3.5 km to the north with small "challenges" on the way.
Sea thermals can provide good height gains which allow "the Combe" to be gained.
Important!
Don't hang around in front of Summerhills - please respect the residents privacy.
No dogs allowed onto the site.
Please refrain from driving vehicles on to site.
The farmer has requested that we park off the track alongside the fence where there is a small strip of grass about the width of a car, better still park in the main carpark.
Local pilot rep: Keith Paterson 07841 056727
Access
Car park grid ref: SD120812
Getting There
Turn off A5093 at Silecroft and follow minor road towards the beach.
Turn right down a track after 500m. Park after 150m Keep track clear.
Getting to takeoff
Can be walked from the beach car park to south end take off.
Alternatively, it can be driven via a track that starts 100m before the beach car park (goes to Summerhills).
Park by second gate. North end ... drive a road/track to buildings and walk in.
Take off is 120m N of Summerhils.
Permission to use site
Whitbeck (for access and take off south end.) Townend Farm, Whitbeck (access and take off north end)
Flying
Hazards
Check the state of the tides. Don't scratch.
Paragliding
This is a good safe site but take care on launch if windy due to compression (there can be no wind at the base of the banking but on the crest, 30'/ 10m higher it can be 15 - 20mph!).
Avoid flying low in front of Summerhills as the residents like their privacy.
Hang Gliding
No problems but easy to mess up the low level launch and end up on the beach so avoid high tide!
Don't scratch; if below the top then go down, land and walk the glider back up.
Good top landing.
XC potential
Limited but there is potential if the "Combe" can be gained.
