DESCRIPTION

Parking There is a stile in the fence line at the site entrance. Do not block access to others by parking in front of the stile. Park as tight as possible to the fence on the grass verge. The road is narrow so take care not to obstruct the road way. Access Simply hop over the stile, set up and launch.

ACTIVITIES

- paragliding
- flatland
- hanggliding
- hike
- soaring
- thermals

weather

The site has been known to be turbulent on strong Northerly days owing to the ridge out in front. There is also a possibility of rotor from the Winklebury ridge when the wind is off to the east, particularly to the east side of the ridge. As with most bowls if the wind is off the hill, it is possible for it to be dragged up the slope giving the impression it is on. Look for direction indicators out in front. If you are blown back here the trees will be waiting to catch you, take care to keep out in front on stronger days. If you are blown back over the trees you will almost certainly experience severe rotor in their lee. To the west of the site, power cables run across and down the hill and onto the western spur. Beware in this corner that particularly when there is east in the wind that a venturi effect can increase wind speed in this area causing you to be blown back. Be on the look out for low flying aircraft. The site is very close to Compton Abbas airfield.

access

From Shaftesbury take the A30 towards Salisbury, drive through Ludwell and take the right hand turn signed for Ashmore (Dennis Lane). Take the next left and follow signs to Rushmore. From Salisbury, take the A30 Shaftesbury Road. Turn off left toward Berwick St. John. Drive through the village and turn right opposite the Talbot Inn. The road bends sharp right and follows a stream on the left. Bear left up the hill, at the top turn right. You are now driving above Monk’s down.

regulation

June 2020: AVOID flying here, as the local clubs are in the process of renegotiationg access with the landowner(s). Do NOT jeopardize these efforts!!!