Hartlebury Common

Hartlebury Common is one of the largest surviving lowland heaths in Worcestershire, a Local Nature Reserve and SSSI between Stourport-on-Severn and Kidderminster. Sandy heath, bracken, birch and the open sweep down toward the Severn valley give varied, characterful ground with plenty of clear space for take-off. It is council-managed open access land rather than National Trust property, so responsible flying is realistic, and there is free parking off the B4193. The main caution is ecological: as a SSSI the heath supports ground-nesting birds, reptiles and rare plants, so avoid low flights over vegetation in spring and summer, stick to the open sandy areas and keep well away from dog walkers and horse riders, who use the common heavily. There is no airport flight restriction zone here, though keep a general eye out as the wider area has plenty of low light-aircraft activity. The common can get moderately busy on fine weekends but has quiet corners on the upper heath. For the best results, fly early on a calm, clear morning, keep your height sensible over the open heath, and use the elevated western edge for wide views across the Severn valley and toward the Malverns and Clent Hills in the distance.