Crickhowell Paragliding

Crickhowell sits at the eastern edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park, where the Usk Valley narrows between the Sugar Loaf and the Black Mountains. It’s the natural base for paragliding in south-east Wales — multiple ridge sites within fifteen minutes’ drive, a strong school presence, and the kind of mid-altitude mountain country that rewards patient flying.

What to expect

Training takes place at several local sites depending on wind direction: Pen-y-Crug for west-to-south-west, the Llangynidr ridge for north-east, the Sugar Loaf for thermal days. The terrain is gentler than the Peak District but more committing than the South Downs — ridge tops sit at 500-700m, with clean lift in the right conditions. Crickhowell-based schools run BHPA Elementary, Club Pilot and beyond.

Practical notes

Most courses run April-October. Crickhowell itself has cafes, good B&Bs and the kind of post-flying pub culture you want at the end of a training day — the Bear Hotel and the Bridge End are both well-established climbers’ and pilots’ pubs. Lessons book ahead, particularly for weekend cohorts in summer. Bring waterproofs and proper boots — the take-off walks involve sheep fields and rocky paths.

Who it suits

Crickhowell sits in the heart of the Brecon Beacons' best ridge country, which makes it a strong base for beginners and progressing pilots alike. The surrounding hills give a choice of sites for building skills in genuine mountain air.

Getting there

Crickhowell is in the Usk valley on the eastern side of the Brecon Beacons. There is no station in the town; the nearest railhead is Abergavenny, a few miles away on the Welsh Marches line, with a car needed to reach the ridge sites.

Quick answers

Is it suitable for beginners?

Yes. Beginner instruction starts on gentle slopes with ground handling before moving to short flights as you progress.

How long does it take to learn?

The BHPA Elementary stage takes a few days; an independent Club Pilot rating usually takes a season of weather-dependent days.

When is the best time of year?

Spring to autumn. Welsh mountain weather is changeable, so flexibility over dates makes a real difference to your flying time.