Paragliding Friar Waddon

Friar Waddon is a soaring and training site with a height of 100 meters above mean sea level. It is suitable for paragliding club pilots and above, but hang gliding is not permitted. Before flying, it is essential to contact the Wessex Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club for a site briefing. The site is owned and farmed by Mr. M. Mayo of Waddon Farm. The wind direction for optimal flying is from the south (180°). The site offers potential for extensive ridge runs and excellent cross-country (XC) opportunities, especially if you can connect with the sea breeze front. However, the proximity to the sea may initially hamper XC flights. Directions to the site: From the A354 Dorchester to Weymouth Road, navigate over the Ridgeway, around the hairpin bend, under the railway bridge, and turn right into Elwell Street, Upwey. Continue to the end of the road, turn right at the "T" junction, and follow the road to Goulds Hill. Take the next left into Friar Waddon Road and continue to Corton Gap, where you can park safely on the extended verge. If approaching from the west via B3157, turn left at the Kings Arms Public House in Portesham, then take the first right onto Friar Waddon Road and follow it to Corton Gap. Parking is limited, with space for approximately four vehicles on the verge. The farmer may allow two additional vehicles at his free-range egg outlet, but permission must be sought beforehand. Ensure no part of your vehicle overhangs Friar Waddon Road. Access to the site involves walking eastward from Corton Gap to the corner of the hill, then up and under the pylons to the face of the ridge. Takeoff is approximately 150 meters east of the smaller pylons. Hazards include a steep ridge face at takeoff, potential rotor and turbulence at the rear of the top field, and barbed wire fencing around the field. The area is also used by walkers, riders, and occasionally stocked with livestock. Major and minor distribution pylons are located immediately west of the takeoff area. Top landing should be done back at the takeoff point, but be cautious of turbulence and rotor if blown back. Bottom landing is available in the designated area, but beware of power lines running north to south and be mindful of crops and livestock. Specific site restrictions include: 1. Reporting to the "Hen House" at Waddon Farm before flying, preferably before noon. If after midday, phone Mr. Mayo and leave a message if there is no answer. 2. Asking permission to park at the "Hen House" if there is no available space near Corton Gap. 3. Carrying your BHPA card, as the farmer will ask to see it to ensure you have BHPA public liability insurance. 4. Ensuring no part of your vehicle overhangs the road when parking on the verge. For your safety, notify the Portland Coastguard Helicopter at (01305) 760 439, as they may fly low in this area. For more information, visit the Wessex Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club website: http://www.wessexhgpg.org.uk Watch videos of the site: - [Video 1]( ) - [Video 2]( ) - [Video 3]( ) - [Video 4]( )