Coward's bowl
📍 England , Wiltshire · Nearest city: Mere (2 km)
14 XC score / 100 · takeoff at 187 m · 📍 View on map
Coordinates and external links
51.10870, -2.27730Forecast next days
Updated: 2026-04-21 02:42 UTC · Source: Open-Meteo · Thermal window 10:00–18:00 local time
Not recommended for flying, cloud base ~998 m, strong wind (28 km/h).
base ~998m · wind 28 km/hNot recommended for flying, cloud base ~1602 m, strong wind (28 km/h).
base ~1602m · wind 28 km/hFlyable day, decent conditions, cloud base ~1677 m, wind 21 km/h.
base ~1677m · wind 21 km/hComposite flyability score (CAPE + LI + wind + precip + low clouds). Cross-check with local pilots before flying.
🌬 Daily wind (next days)
Daily summary (10m wind). Full hour × altitude chart is being added progressively.
Takeoff orientations
Green = good orientation · Yellow = possible · Gray = not suitable
Why this site has thermal potential
| Factor | Value | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Hotspot density (5 km) | 0 | Low |
| Avg thermal probability | 0.00 | Based on thousands of aggregated IGC flights |
| Solar orientation | 0.45 | Slope faces south in northern hemisphere |
| Own flight history | 0.00 | Thermals detected in platform IGC tracks |
Takeoff description
Anywhere in the bowl facing into the prevailing wind. Paragliders should not launch directly in front of rigging hang glider pilots. Be aware that in stronger winds it may not be possible to penetrate out from the bowl. Also be aware that horses may be using the bridlepath running up the spur and may be spooked by inflating gliders.
Rules and notes
Can be difficult to get away from as you have to commit to leaving at a lower height than is usual. Be aware of the Salisbury Plain ranges which are 7 miles to the NE. Beware of the wild-life park at Longleat, 4 miles to the N.
Pilot comments
Park on the main track, without blocking it or the gates into the surrounding fields. Do not drive into any of the fields.
Nearby sites
Rifle Range (14) · Cley Hill (6) · Bell Hill (2) · Hambledon Hill (4) · Whitesheet (4) · Westbury White Horse (3)