Beachy Head - Sun, Sea & Slope Soaring

Rob, Jack & I went down to Beachy Head (above Eastbourne) this morning, we got there at 9:30 and it was empty. Firstly we turned up, parked and wandered directly across from the cars (50 yards) and started to soar the hill. At this point the hill was just a hill and not a cliff but good enough to keep us busy for over an hour.I would say higher and steeper than Ditchling, but still able to recover a lost model (eh, Jack ?) Initial light lift gradually increased to make the lift reliable and gave us the opportunity to play some combat and low passes along the path.

There were even benches to sit on and relax in the sun as you flew. Isn't it nice seeing old fella's like Rob getting out and about at his age?

We were joined by a low flying Paraglider who struggled to stay up in the gentle lift.

Then we moved round the corner to a fantastic bowl that over looked a big cliff edge and the sea below. Here the wind was stronger and gave superb lift together with amazing views. Flying over the sea was a 'leap of faith' and did take a little getting used too (none of us had flown without being able to see any land ahead - except France!), but the strong lift and good landing area behind made for an amazing flying site.

This place gets an 8/10 and well worth the 45 min drive from Haywards Heath to Beachy Head. Easy to park (not so sure in the height of summer) with parking right behind the flying area. Lots of landing space and the views - WOW!

There's even a pub and 'facilities' for those of a less hardy disposition. . . . or you could be just like Rob and go and pee in the bushes and give the walkers a shock!

 

Paul and Rob.