The Warren

The Warren is a chalk-coast site on the Kent shore between the eastern railway tunnel and the western end of the ridge before Folkestone. In light winds with the flow straight on, soaring flights are possible along that stretch of ridge. Do NOT venture east of the tunnel unless you are absolutely sure you can get back — especially at high tide — because there is no bottom landing beyond the point. In a genuine emergency, the reclaimed land at Samphire Hoe adjacent to the tunnel works is the only bail-out. The Warren is described locally as one of the most committed paraglider take-offs in England.

Launch & conditions

There is rotor behind take-off, so make sure your glider is well under control before you launch. There is also a real risk of being lifted very quickly when inflating close to the edge. Wind direction on launch can be deceptive — take proper time to read the conditions before committing. Not a site to hurry.

Getting there & local rules

Standard access via the Folkestone-side path down to launch; landing options are strictly limited to the narrow shore between the tunnel and the point at Folkestone, so pilots must plan glide-out routes before launching.

Local rules & hazards

The Warren is among the most committed launches in England — rotor behind take-off, a real risk of being lifted quickly when inflating close to the edge, and deceptive wind directions. Do not land on any bowling greens, the caravan site, or Railtrack fenced-off areas. Do not push east of the tunnel unless you're sure of getting back, especially at high tide when the shore is submerged.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to The Warren, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open The Warren with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.