Stags Fell (Members only)
Last edited on: 26 Apr 2025
Important information
No XC flights over the back between Aug 12th - Dec 31st inclusive (shooting season).
DHPC members only.
The "12 pilots allowed in the air at any one time" restriction has been removed on the proviso that there are no landings on the open moor and top cliffs.
Please ensure that you abide by the Rules section below - this is a very sensitive site.
Status
Open
This site is open but please read the information on this page carefully.
Sites officer
North (Turn on JavaScript!)
Location
Lat, long: 54.328972, -2.198239
OS grid reference: SD 870 927
Wind direction
SSE-WSW (160-250)
Height
1575’ (480m) AMSL. 790’ (240m) Top to Bottom.
Grade of pilot
PG – Experienced only.
HG – Expert.
Parking
There are a number of spaces along the side of the Hawes to Muker road, near the junction with the track. Park sensitively, and use space further along the road if it's getting congested. Please do not drive up the track.
Reference
The easiest way up is to walk round the barrier and up the track, forking right at the top of the ridge. PGs should not be tempted to walk too far along the ridge as the sharp edge makes canopy inflation difficult – stick to the small mound, unless the wind is well off to the south in which case you will have to walk some distance around the corner.
Capacity
There is now no restriction on the number of pilots in the air.
Hazards
Rotor on top landings.
PG generally top land or slope land on the ledge – beware boulders.
Hardraw and Sedbusk BL are designed for HG and make for an interesting and worthwhile sled ride at the end of the day. Before flying down, check with someone who knows the landing field well, or fly down with them as both fields are unclear at takeoff.
Hardraw – sloping/wires/turbulent in WSW.
Sedbusk – a large enough pasture on the Hardraw to Askrigg road, next to the Sedbusk turn off. Beware of dead air behind the plantations on the Southerly hillside when flying down across the face. Note - The access gate is not at the bottom (flat bit) of the field.
Rules
FULL DHPC MEMBERS ONLY. All pilots, helpers and spectators must stay off the open moorland, due to management of the grouse moor.
A permanent sign is now installed at the bottom of the main track - please read before you walk up & fly.
No XC flights between Aug 12th - Dec 31st inclusive (shooting season). From Jan 1st - Aug 11th XC flights are permitted, attain at least 1,000ft/300m ATO before going over the back (to be sure of clearing the moor) going towards Swaledale. No low flights or landing on the moor under any circumstances.
Takeoff, landing, and ground handling from the top cliffs is STRICTLY PROHIBITED. Protected Golden Plovers nest behind the upper takeoff.
Comments
Site Challenges
If you'd like a task to follow, consider the Stags NCS 2024 task, or the DFC Stags Fell The Moorcock to Caperby. Visit Ed Cleasby's website for background and information about the Northern Challenge Series and Defined Flying Challenges.
Land owner
Contact via Sites Officer
Nearest landline/mobile phone coverage
At Simonstone.
Good mobile reception on some networks.