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# Cambridge Gliding Centre: Soar to new heights at East Anglia's leading gliding club
## Posts
- [Open Weekend 2026 – visit and learn to fly!](https://www.camgliding.uk/open-weekend-2026/13884/): 3A10B9C82F0BA3379567
- [Peak evening event season](https://www.camgliding.uk/peak-evening-event-season/14601/): Around the summer solstice, druids and revelers gather around sacred sites, such as Stonehenge, or Cambridge Gliding Club, to celebrate the long evenings and the beautiful sunsets.
- [Tuesday evening flying in Bluebell](https://www.camgliding.uk/tuesday-evening-flying-in-bluebell/14541/): Rather than edit the video as usual into a snappy minute or so, when I watched the footage back it seemed far better just to trim the ends and publish the whole ten minutes from take-off to recovery back to the launch point as the whole video gives such a lovely taste of evening flying, gorgeous conditions, an absolutely fabulous antique aircraft, and a relaxed group of people all enjoying the flying as the sun sets. Thanks to Duncan Withers for wearing the silly hat with a camera and Richard Maskell for his smooth flying and relaxed instruction.
- [Iris solos!](https://www.camgliding.uk/iris-solos/14472/): (Click an image to see the full gallery)
- [Open weekend 2026 – what happened?](https://www.camgliding.uk/open-weekend-2026-what-happened/14459/): Last weekend was our 2026 open weekend. If you came along, thanks!
- [Whether to use thermals in trial flights](https://www.camgliding.uk/whether-to-use-thermals-in-trial-flights/14408/): Today was a day with lots of activity at the airfield: an inter-club cross-country competition, scouts flying, normal flying lessons, and... the relevant bit... lots of trial flights. We effectively had two gliders occupied by trial flights for most of the day.
- [East-west sail](https://www.camgliding.uk/east-west-sail/14395/): Some photos here from a motor glider flight today from Cambridge to Membury.
- [Pilots of the future](https://www.camgliding.uk/pilots-of-the-future/14305/): Last week we were visited by students (16-18) from Stansted Airport College. They are all on the Pilot Enrichment Programme so are all very keen to learn to fly! They took winch launches, aerotow launches, spent time in our simulator and some flew in the tug. Many were able to experience the joy of finding and climbing in thermals - they didn't want to come down.
- [Sunset flying](https://www.camgliding.uk/sunset-flying/14298/): Yesterday evening we had one of our regular evening flying sessions with Cambridge University Gliding Club. The sunset was particularly beautiful!
- [Early cross-countries and crops](https://www.camgliding.uk/early-cross-countries-and-crops/14206/): Cambridge Gliding Club trains student pilots all year. In the winter training flights are fairly short because there are no thermals to keep gliders aloft; around April the thermals start to kick off, and a new cadre of newly-qualified pilots start to think about their first cross-country flights. Cross-country means "out of gliding range of the airfield" — think of as the gliding equivalent of leaving the shallow end of the pool. You can no longer touch the bottom if you can't swim; you can no longer glide back to the airfield if you can't find a thermal!
- [Becoming the Youngest Licensed Pilot in the UK](https://www.camgliding.uk/becoming-the-youngest-licensed-pilot-in-the-uk/14183/): I just received my Sailplane Pilot Licence — and it has since been confirmed by the British Gliding Association that I am currently the youngest person in the UK to hold a pilot’s licence. I’m 16, and I haven’t sat my GCSEs yet.
- [A marginal day?](https://www.camgliding.uk/a-marginal-day/13984/): Here are some clouds.
- [International Women’s Day 2026](https://www.camgliding.uk/international-womens-day-2026/13970/): We are celebrating International Women's Day by featuring the stories, gliding journeys, and achievements of women pilots at the Cambridge Gliding Centre and the Cambridge University Gliding Club. We hope these stories will inspire more girls and women to take up gliding and discover the many pleasures and challenges of flying.
- [Old North Road](https://www.camgliding.uk/old-north-road/13928/): Immediately east of the club is the dead-straight road called Old North Road — this was the Roman road Ermine Street from Bishopsgate in London up to York.
- [Spring arrives…](https://www.camgliding.uk/spring-arrives/13932/): Well, that winter was a bit rubbish wasn't it?
- [Women’s Go Gliding Day – learn to fly!](https://www.camgliding.uk/womens-go-gliding-day-learn-to-fly/13891/): Learn to fly! You can start learning from your first flight - use the form below to book a one-to-one trial lesson with one of our experienced instructors.
- [December 2025 CUGC Expedition to Sutton Bank](https://www.camgliding.uk/december-2025-cugc-expedition-to-sutton-bank/13721/): Cambridge is a place fond of traditions and, as a result, we could not help but engage in our annual tradition of gathering some CUGC members and an instructor and shipping them up north for ridge and wave soaring, as well as extensive canopy de-misting. December found a group of us packing our blankets and heaters and heading to the Yorkshire Gliding Club (YGC), aka the Sutton Bank airfield. Sutton Bank is a hill gliding site and one of the oldest UK gliding sites. It offers glider pilots used to the flatness of Cambridgeshire the opportunity to soar along its westerly ridge and potentially find some wave. While there is no water tower or Wimpole Estate to help us navigate, there is the famous Kilburn White Horse -a landmark one cannot possibly miss. Its fleet includes the most wonderful DG1000 (that the author instantly fell in love with), which we had the pleasure to fly.
- [CUGC Member Achievements and Competitions](https://www.camgliding.uk/cugc-member-achievements-and-competitions/13679/): We are looking back on CUGC member achievements from summer 2025 onwards, including competitions!
- [Denbigh 2025](https://www.camgliding.uk/denbigh-2025/13692/): Last week, CGC returned to Denbigh Gliding Club, based at Lleweni Parc airfield in North Wales, taking down with us a K21 and Pegase.
- [A frosty day to go gliding](https://www.camgliding.uk/a-frosty-day-to-go-gliding/13621/): IMG_1789
- [Our first Sailplane Pilot’s License test](https://www.camgliding.uk/our-first-sailplane-pilots-license-test/13565/): For the first time, one of our pilots has taken the CAA SPL Assessment of Competence, and passed. What does all that mean? A bit of context:
- [Achievements on almost the shortest day of the year](https://www.camgliding.uk/achievements-on-almost-the-shortest-day-of-the-year/13585/): Saturday was a good day for us (despite bands of rain afflicting the west side of the country for the past few weeks, we've remained relatively dry). It was filled with achievements, despite it being one of the shortest days:
- [15-year-old Performs Aerobatics](https://www.camgliding.uk/15-year-old-performs-aerobatics/13575/): Loops, humpty bumps, and chandelles are demonstrated in this ASK 21 aerobatics flight, filmed at sunset.
- [Gliding at 102 – it’s never too late!](https://www.camgliding.uk/gliding-at-102-its-never-too-late/13542/): When we heard that a centenarian lady veteran wanted to fly in a glider, we knew we had to make it happen. A group of club members, with the support of the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans who arranged the travel logistics, worked together to fulfil Robbie's ambition. On a beautiful December day Robbie took to the sky for a 25 minute flight in our K21 glider. How much she enjoyed the experience was clear to those who welcomed her back to earth. All involved agreed that it was a good day.
- [Two first flights (do you need a Christmas present idea?)](https://www.camgliding.uk/two-first-flights-do-you-need-a-christmas-present-idea/13497/): Yesterday I was lucky enough to take two people on their first glider flights. At two opposite ends of the spectrum: someone who really really wanted to go flying, and someone who hadn't considered it seriously before.
- [My First Touring Motor Glider Flight: Navigation, Field Landings, and Final Glide](https://www.camgliding.uk/my-first-touring-motor-glider-flight-navigation-field-landings-and-final-glide/13484/): This Sunday marked a huge milestone in my journey towards earning my Sailplane Pilots License (SPL). I flew in the Touring Motor Glider (TMG) for the very first time to complete the remaining training exercises: field selection and landing, navigation, and final glide planning. It was one of the most rewarding and eye-opening flights I’ve done so far.
- [Discover gliding in 2026](https://www.camgliding.uk/discover-gliding-in-2026/13478/): With 2026 approaching, why not consider joining us at Cambridge Gliding Centre, and start the new year with a new hobby.
- [November crispness](https://www.camgliding.uk/november-crispness/13463/): Glider pilots get pretty nerdy about clouds. Clouds are signs of lift, so we pay a lot of attention to them.
- [Mutual flying](https://www.camgliding.uk/mutual-flying/13376/): My friend Janine gained her full Sailplane Pilot’s License this summer, and is now a qualified pilot. Congratulations Janine! This means that for the first time we could take a two-seater glider and go flying together, termed “mutual flying”.
- [October’s an interesting gliding challenge](https://www.camgliding.uk/octobers-an-interesting-gliding-challenge/13371/): The winter is great for learning to glide — lots of short flights to practice launches and landings — but, if we're honest, it's no good for long soaring flights.
- [Chasing Horizons: Join Us on a Cross-Country Gliding Adventure!](https://www.camgliding.uk/chasing-horizons-join-us-on-a-cross-country-gliding-adventure/12056/): Here’s a glimpse of what it's like to be up there:
- [Anthony Edwards has celebrated his 90th birthday](https://www.camgliding.uk/anthony-edwards-has-celebrated-his-90th-birthday/13354/): Anthony Edwards, a pillar of Cambridge University Gliding Club, has celebrated his 90th birthday
- [What’s different about Bluebell?](https://www.camgliding.uk/whats-different-about-bluebell/13315/): Bluebell is even older than me. She's 75 years old. I have finally had a chance to fly her!
- [Little Gransden Airshow 2025](https://www.camgliding.uk/little-gransden-airshow-2025/13296/): The forecast for the Little Gransden airshow on Sunday 24th Aug was good. We helped get the tug and Junior VB out of the hanger and launched early to allow Bruce to be towed into air by George Knight and land at the Little Gransden airfield before lots of the day’s aircraft started to fly in.
- [Tuesday Evening Flying](https://www.camgliding.uk/tuesday-evening-flying/13300/): Another season of Tuesday evening flying has come to the end now that we're in September and  the days are getting shorter.  This week we celebrated the successful year with a curry night. During the 16 evenings we've managed: 256 launches over 24 hours of flying 9 different gliders in the air at least 29 different students flown at least 1 first solo
- [Club History](https://www.camgliding.uk/august-1993/13281/): This is a picture of the entire club fleet at Duxford between 1985 and 1987.
- [Aerobatics from the back seat of a K21 Glider](https://www.camgliding.uk/aerobatics-from-the-back-seat-of-a-k21-glider/13264/): Just a quick flight into some clear sky above the cloud for a series of aerobatic manoeuvres, flown by CGC's medal winning aerobatic pilot and instructor Simon Smith.
- [The whole fleet out!](https://www.camgliding.uk/the-whole-fleet-out/13253/): Today was a pretty good gliding day so there we used the whole club fleet. Here it is!
- [Gliding Heritage Centre Tour](https://www.camgliding.uk/gliding-heritage-centre-tour/13178/): (Click an image to see the full gallery)
- [CC’s Experimental Ink Workshops](https://www.camgliding.uk/ccs-experimental-ink-workshops/13199/): (Click an image to see the full gallery)
- [No upper age limit!](https://www.camgliding.uk/no-upper-age-limit/13136/): Last week we had two octogenarian visitors.
- [A Surprise Silver Height](https://www.camgliding.uk/a-surprise-silver-height/13204/): I’m an early post-solo student, and I plan to practice my launching, landing, and soaring skills during my eighth solo flight in the K21. My instructor, David Williams, suggested that I could stay up longer in the afternoon as the weather improves.
- [Birthday present thanks!](https://www.camgliding.uk/birthday-present-thanks/13130/): This is a guest post from Nigel, who visited last week and enjoyed it so much he decided to submit a post to our website!!
- [New Wings, Same Sky: 3 pilots convert to new glider types](https://www.camgliding.uk/new-wings-same-sky-3-pilots-convert-to-new-glider-types/12960/): Recently we had three of our solo pilots all converting to new glider types on the same day. Converting to a new glider is an exciting step in your gliding journey, so we spoke to each pilot about how their conversion went.
- [Our newest solo pilot, CC Ling!](https://www.camgliding.uk/our-newest-solo-pilot-cc-ling/12971/): (Click an image to see the full gallery)
- [Cambridge pilots take Gold and Silver at Aerobatics competition](https://www.camgliding.uk/cambridge-pilots-take-gold-and-silver-at-aerobatics-competition/12882/): I was one of three Cambridge pilots competing at Sports level in the Saltby Open Aerobatics over the weekend of 18th July.
- [Cloud Rally Sunday](https://www.camgliding.uk/cloud-rally-sunday/12936/): (Click an image to see the full gallery)
- [4th at the Club Class Nationals](https://www.camgliding.uk/4th-at-the-club-class-nationals/12905/): Last week I flew in the Club Class Nationals Competition at Dunstable, London Gliding Club. The Club Class is a mix of older gliders, Libelles, LS4s, Discuses, ASW20s, and others of the era, flown without ballast and with scores handicapped to allow for some semblance of equality. I was flying my DG-300, and we had five contest days out of a possible nine, which is about average.
- [The Interclub League 2025: A Tale Of Land-Outs](https://www.camgliding.uk/the-interclub-league-2025-a-tale-of-land-outs/12861/): The Inter-club league (ICL) is an annual cross-country gliding competition held between local gliding clubs. We are part of the East Midlands ICL; this is held between us, The Gliding Centre - based at Husbands Bosworth airfield (12 mi S. of Leicester) and London Gliding Club - based at Dunstable airfield. Unfortunately, this year London GC was unable to take part.
- [Journey to becoming a basic instructor](https://www.camgliding.uk/journey-to-becoming-a-basic-instructor/12834/): About a year ago, one of our professional instructors David Williams planted a seed in my brain - perhaps I should aim to become an instructor myself.
- [An epic day](https://www.camgliding.uk/an-epic-day/12791/): Thursday 3rd July was widely reported to be the ‘day of the year’.  And it was.  Sort of.  But perhaps not quite as good as we had hoped - the height of convection a mere 6,500 ft and not, as confidently predicted by Skysight, the 8,300 ft we had been promised. However, we didn't know that as we excitedly declared a 754 km back and forth across middle England.  Probably a good thing we didn't - 754 kms is a long way in anyone's book, especially when it takes nearly 9 hours!  The longest flight, time wise, I have ever done.
- [My First 300Km](https://www.camgliding.uk/my-first-300km/12783/): This article is aimed at the junior XC pilot, not the sky Gods who regularly eat 300Km tasks for breakfast and spit out the pips.
- [Notes on a 750km flight on 3 July, Mosquito ‘GB’](https://www.camgliding.uk/notes-on-a-750km-flight-on-3-july-malte-grosche-mosquito-gb/12757/): Thursday 3 July had been predicted by Topmeteo and Skysight as a fantastic day – with best-in-year potential – well in advance, and so it was no surprise that a good crowd was already on the field, rigging, when I turned up around 8:10. In the spirit of incremental advances, I had planned on what to me seemed a pretty ambitious 670 km FAI triangle. Talking to Robert and Wendy, it became clear that perhaps something more aspirational should be attempted, a 750 km Yo-yo to Haye East, Bury St. Edmunds and Broadway. With my Mosquito prepared, including 50 litres of water, and waiting in the aerotow queue, I reconsidered this tricky question and went along with the majority choice to declare the 750 km Yo-yo. My determination wavered, when I realised that with an 11 am start, this would require 7.5 hours at 100 kph in my club-class glider so that I could return at a safe 6:30 pm. As it turned out, however, launch operations were very efficient and we got into the air and on task much earlier. This turned out to provide a much-needed buffer. A big thank-you goes to the club for making available two tugs and to the tug pilots, who got us all into the air promptly.
- [G-CHEH goes to school](https://www.camgliding.uk/g-cheh-goes-to-school/12766/): (Click an image to see the full gallery)
- [Clouds to the left of me 🎶](https://www.camgliding.uk/clouds-to-the-left-of-me-%f0%9f%8e%b6/12553/): A couple of weeks ago I had a nice local flight of a couple of hours. The day wasn't good enough for me to go cross-country, due to big blue gaps in the sky like this:
- [Cambridge Gliding Centre Soars at Duxford Summer Airshow 2025](https://www.camgliding.uk/cambridge-gliding-centre-soars-at-duxford-summer-airshow-2025/12730/): The Cambridge Gliding Centre (CGC) made a strong impression at the Duxford Summer Airshow, held on the 21st and 22nd of June 2025. The club showcased two gliders: a Duo Discus (call sign 72) on static display, and an ASK21 (call sign HTV), which thrilled spectators with an aerobatic performance flown by display pilot Brendan O’Brien.
- [South Cambridge Gliders](https://www.camgliding.uk/south-cambridge-gliders/12477/): On Wednesday I was lucky enough to host a gliding evening for my very friendly running club, the South Cambridge Striders. (They were kind enough to come along despite my spotty recent appearance on their runs, which I have variously blamed on a cold, my kids' exams, and a bad knee, but we all secretly know it's because I'm probably gliding.)
- [Discover the Freedom of Silent Flight](https://www.camgliding.uk/discover-the-freedom-of-silent-flight/12463/): Ready to Fly?
- [Trainspotting](https://www.camgliding.uk/trainspotting/12400/): Earlier this week I flew from Cambridge to Bicester. This gave a beautiful view of the route of HS2 which will whisk people in comfort and speed from Birmingham to Quite Near London.
- [Friday 23rd May was a good day.](https://www.camgliding.uk/friday-23rd-may-was-a-good-day/12396/): The heat on sunny days creates bubbles or columns of rising air (thermals) that frequently become cumulus clouds at height.  Many of our members enjoy flying around the country by circling in the rising air and then gliding to the next thermal.  The picture shows the tracks of all the flights from our airfield at Gransden Lodge on the one day.
- [David Howse – Awarded Certificate of Merit by the Royal Aero Club](https://www.camgliding.uk/david-howse-awarded-certificate-of-merit-by-the-royal-aero-club/12373/): David Howse, Cambridge Gliding Club's Treasurer, has been awarded a Certificate of Merit by the Royal Aero Club.  It's "For those who have served the cause of aviation in general, or sporting aviation in particular, by their work, dedication or initiative". Please join with me in congratulating David, and expressing your gratitude for his enormous contribution to our club and our sport.
- [Gift of paintings by Edmund Miller](https://www.camgliding.uk/gift-of-paintings-by-edmund-miller/12354/): Cambridge Gliding Club was recently contacted by the family of the late Edmund (Ed) Miller FGAvA, a celebrated British aviation artist whose work has long paid tribute to the legacy, innovation, and emotion of flight.  Ed was a regular visitor to the club and featured us in a number of paintings which the family kindly offered to give to us.  They are titled "Gliding at Gransden", "Gliding at Cambridge" and "Glider Retrieval - Royston Heath".  In the Cambridge painting Ed is depicted getting into the front of the K13.  We don't think the aircraft in the Royston picture are from CGC - after all, none of our members would land out so close to home - but given the location it seems fitting for the painting to have a home here.
- [75 years and still flying high!](https://www.camgliding.uk/75-years-and-still-flying-high/12134/): Sunday, May 4th  was a cold and gusty day at Gransden Lodge but this didn`t dampen the enthusiasm to celebrate the 75th anniversary of one of the oldest club members – Slingsby T-21B, known to all as 'Bluebell'.
- [V.E. Day at Gransden Lodge](https://www.camgliding.uk/v-e-day-at-gransden-lodge/12138/): During World War Two one of the major users of Gransden Lodge airfield was the Canadian No. 405 Squadron. Throughout the conflict it had served to mark targets as part of the R.A.F.’s Pathfinder Force, but at the war’s end it took part in several operations that were decidedly less warlike in nature.
- [North Wales Expedition Flight](https://www.camgliding.uk/north-wales-expedition-flight/12014/): First day of a task week at Lleweni Parc run by Chris Gill. As the forecast weather was "iffy" Chris set a free distance task with up to 6 legs scored on WeGlide. We clocked up 247 km like that. There was a fantastic convergence running up and down the coast from Prestatyn to Conwy. The last runs up and down it were over the sea, sadly no photos of this. On the second run up the convergence we crossed onto the westerly side of Snowdonia and picked our way to just short of Dinorwig where my nerve ran out. Later in the day to the west of Ruthin it started waving between 2 and 4 knots to 8000ft. A grand day out.
- [Sightseeing tour of Cambridge](https://www.camgliding.uk/sightseeing-tour-of-cambridge/12078/): This week is a great week for gliding, by April standards. Each of the little fluffy clouds you're seeing are at the top of a thermal, so we're getting lovely long flights. Come along and try it!
- [14 year old Harry goes solo](https://www.camgliding.uk/harry-goes-solo/12003/): Air Cadet and CGC member Harry Wick has been featured in the Ely Standard having gone solo aged 14. Cambridge Gliding Club has a great track record in enabling the progress of young pilots, and it's always great to see such achievements recognised. Congratulating Harry in the photos is instructor Andy Beaty, rightly proud of yet another excellent and committed young solo pilot.
- [Birdies or eagles?](https://www.camgliding.uk/birdies-or-eagles/11924/): Sunday was a pretty good day for gliding, at least by April standards. Lots of people had multi-hour flights.
- [Avenues](https://www.camgliding.uk/avenues/11868/): One of our local landmarks is Wimpole Hall. It's a National Trust property with a cafe, a large kids' play area, a folly, a lake, and a farm. The farm looks like this on the inside:
- [Unusual perspectives](https://www.camgliding.uk/a-couple-of-unusual-perspectives/11842/): (Click an image to see the full gallery)
- [Pilot Profile – Olivia](https://www.camgliding.uk/pilot-profile-olivia/11833/): We recently chatted with one of our newer solo pilots at CGC about how she got into gliding, what keeps her coming back, and why she wants to pursue aerobatics. Her story shows gliding is for anyone with a curiosity for the skies—no aviation lineage required!
- [The Aerotow Launch Experience](https://www.camgliding.uk/the-aerotow-launch-experience/11687/): Ever wondered how a glider gets airborne without an engine? One of the most common and versatile launch methods is aerotow, where a powered aircraft tows the glider to altitude before releasing it to fly freely. This method allows pilots to reach lift areas, extend their flight time, and even set off on cross-country adventures.
- [City University Engineers learn the physics of flight](https://www.camgliding.uk/city-university-engineers-learn-the-physics-of-flight/11681/): At Cambridge Gliding Centre we enjoy a great relationship with City University's Aerospace Engineering programme.  We teach their students the practical aspects of aircraft performance by taking them into the air in a glider and showing them!  The aim is not to teach them how to fly, but to demonstrate and explain how the controls work and how the aircraft behaves in certain 'abnormal' situations such as when the wings stall.  The students also make measurements of the performance of the aircraft at various speeds.   We don't officially aim to have fun, but we end up doing that as well!
- [How much do I want to pay for my gliding?](https://www.camgliding.uk/how-much-do-i-want-to-pay-for-my-gliding/11601/): I don't have my own glider (yet?) so I use the club high performance single-seaters, the Pegase and Discus.
- [Spring has sprung and it looks like springs](https://www.camgliding.uk/spring-has-sprung-and-it-looks-like-springs/11594/): Yesterday I posted a map showing that the thermal season may be arriving.
- [Is spring springing?](https://www.camgliding.uk/is-spring-springing/11588/): Yesterday someone posted this on one of our gliding club chat groups:
- [Sandy’s first flight](https://www.camgliding.uk/my-first-day-gliding/11558/): During the summer the club run regular evening flying sessions that are always very popular with members but also, as in this case, new flyers like Sandy. With the heat of the day over, the conditions are usually not as good for climbing in thermals, but great for short training flights. For many, the real attraction is getting to fly as the sun goes down. Cambridgeshire often has amazing sunsets and getting to see one from the air is a different and very worthwhile experience.
- [CUGC Expedition to Lleweni Parc & Sutton Bank](https://www.camgliding.uk/cugc-expedition-to-lleweni-parc-sutton-bank/11457/): Every winter – as is traditional – a handful of Cambridge University Gliding Club (CUGC) members will gather for a week, and mimic our migratory bird counterparts; except, instead of searching for warmer climates, we seek out shiveringly-cold mountains and hills in the UK, hoping to catch some ridge or wave lift (and do some gliding over scenic airfields).
- [Denbigh Expedition: Reality!](https://www.camgliding.uk/denbigh-expedition-reality/11438/): This is a follow-up post to Part One. Read that first!
- [Lleweni Parc Expedition Report](https://www.camgliding.uk/lleweni-parc-expedition-report/11325/):                                                                                   CGC Expedition to Lleweni Parc, 4–12 January 2025
- [Visiting Falconers](https://www.camgliding.uk/visiting-falconers/11294/): It's always a pleasure to host visiting aviators at Cambridge Gliding Centre but particularly so when they look like this. All glider pilots enjoy sharing a thermal with professionals like these, so it's great to see one up close. Thanks to Dave Bishop and Andy Hollidge of the British Falconers Club for showing these amazing birds.
- [Little Gransden Lake](https://www.camgliding.uk/little-gransden-lake/11186/): As pretty as this photo is, it's not a view we like to see. That's not a lake or a river; it's standing water on the concrete perimeter track around the airfield, and it shows just how waterlogged everything currently is. Even though there's no flying going on right now, any day on the field is a good one. We enjoy seeing the progression of the seasons and taking pleasure in being connected to the natural world around us in a very direct way, and not just in the usual hunt for the next great thermal way.
- [Charlie and James](https://www.camgliding.uk/charlie-and-james/11063/): I had experienced a little gliding with the air cadets, so after university I joined CGC. In 2022 I went solo, qualified, and made my first 300km flights. Last year I acquired my highly underrated DG-300 glider and flew in my first competitions, including the Junior Nationals held here at Cambridge. This year I made my first 500km flight and flew with some great pilots at the club-class and Junior nationals. I plan to make more long flights if I can, and hope to continue learning from the best at future competitions around the country.
- [Denbigh Expedition: Expectations](https://www.camgliding.uk/denbigh-expedition-expectations/11435/): In mid-January, a dozen or so people from Cambridge gliding club are heading to Lleweni Parc near Denbigh for a gliding expedition. 
- [Landing Out](https://www.camgliding.uk/landing-out/11136/): Any time a glider is near the ground all pilots have a Plan B in mind - where will I land if I need to? Sometimes it's a case of selecting a field as height is being lost, setting up a circuit and then landing, or as in this case, after a failed aerotow launch very near to the airfield, knowing exactly what to do, even before taking off.  With an aerotow launch the glider gains height slowly, so the initial phase leaves the pilot with few options. Without the option of returning to the airfield, the best option in this case was to turn slightly and land along the large field at the end of one our runs, so that's the one the pilot took.
- [Cloud Rally 2024 – Cutting the Last Umbilical](https://www.camgliding.uk/cloud-rally-2024-cutting-the-last-umbilical/11153/): Image
- [First Solo Aerobatic Flight](https://www.camgliding.uk/first-solo-aerobatic-flight/11120/): Having completed my check flight with instructor Martin, he gave me the go-ahead to fly my first solo aerobatic flight. This flight would be the final step towards earning my Standard Aerobatic Badge, a milestone I had been working towards for some time. As with everything in gliding, life and weather had delayed this moment, making the day feel even more special. It was a bright blue January day, the air cool and still—the perfect setting for this important moment. The canopy closed, sealing me into a world of anticipation and solitude. The towplane climbed steadily, and I focused on maintaining position and preparing for the manoeuvres ahead. At release height, I pulled the cable, and the towplane banked away. I was alone, with the sky stretching endlessly before me. Before starting the aerobatics, I completed my checks with a 180-degree turn, one to right then left scanning the airspace to ensure it was clear. Satisfied, I began. The loop started with a 45-degree down line to build speed. As the airspeed increased, I pulled back on the stick, and the glider responded, arcing gracefully upwards. The horizon vanished as I climbed higher and higher. At the top of the loop, I hung for a heartbeat in weightless stillness, the world inverted below me—a mosaic of fields and roads, familiar yet distant. Gravity took over as I descended, smoothly levelling out to complete the manoeuvre. Next came the humpty: another 45-degree down line to gain speed, followed by a steep climb transitioning into a controlled dive. It required precision and timing, and I felt a thrill as it came together cleanly. Then came the chandelle—a climbing turn that demanded careful coordination. The glider moved beautifully, carving a graceful arc through the sky. After the chandelle, I performed a 270-degree turn, which served as a transition to the final manoeuvre: the up line. The purpose of the up line was to bring the glider back to a safe flying speed—about 50 knots. I pulled back on the stick, feeling the glider slow as it pushed upwards. At the peak, I eased the stick forward, letting the airspeed settle back into normal range. With the sequence complete, I turned towards the airfield, descending in calm, steady silence. The landing was smooth, and as the glider rolled to a stop, I sat quietly for a moment, letting it all sink in. The flight wasn’t flawless, but it was mine—a milestone in my journey as a pilot. Solo aerobatics had shown me the beauty and precision of flight, the thrill of independence, and the joy of mastering something new. It was the kind of moment that changes you. Duncan
- [Gliding featured on BBC Radio Cambridgeshire](https://www.camgliding.uk/gliding-featured-on-bbc-radio-cambridgeshire/11087/): (Click an image to see the full gallery)
- [300km glider flight to the coast and back](https://www.camgliding.uk/300km-glider-flight-to-the-coast-and-back/10917/): The photos show Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft, the coast near Sizewell, Felixstowe docks and finally the Orwell bridge at Ipswich on the way back.
- [Thank goodness for GPS](https://www.camgliding.uk/thank-goodness-for-gps/10516/): Before the days of GPS and loggers, when flying cross-country we had to take photographs of turning points to prove that we'd rounded them. The rules were quite strict about where you had to take the photo from. I recently did a flight to Belvoir Castle (near Grantham and pronounced "Beaver") and, being a sunny day, I decided to take some photos of the castle. Like I said: thank goodness for GPS.
- [Winter Flying at Cambridge Gliding Centre](https://www.camgliding.uk/winter-flying-at-cambridge-gliding-centre/10642/): Friday brought crisp, bright skies and good conditions for some winter flying! 🛫❄️ The low winter sun painted the horizon with a stunning golden glow, adding an extra layer of magic to the views from above.
- [Remembrance Sunday](https://www.camgliding.uk/remembrance-sunday/10546/): Today, as on every Remembrance Sunday, we laid a wreath on the RAF Gransden Lodge airfield memorial by the windmill in Great Gransden.
- [What comes down … must go up](https://www.camgliding.uk/what-comes-down-must-go-up/10512/): After some deliberation, I decided to head north on this day. A late start meant that the anticipated showers were already developing to the west. That part of the sky did not look friendly! Every cloud, however... The sinking air within the showers had to come up again somewhere, and along the leading edge of the bank of showers there was plenty of lift, and I was able to cruise along without issue. I chickened out and turned back somewhere north of Peterborough, when I decided that the showers were about to cut off my retreat - and just got the glider back in the trailer before the rain started in earnest.
- [Wildlife at Cambridge Gliding Centre](https://www.camgliding.uk/wildlife-at-cambridge-gliding-centre/10277/): As you would expect of a large grass airfield in the middle of the Cambridgeshire countryside, Cambridge Gliding Centre is a home for and surrounded by all kinds of wildlife, but it was still a surprising delight to see a small group of deer running across a field behind runway 22 while the club Perkoz was preparing to aerotow launch.
- [CGC Shines at the Duxford Flying Finale 2024](https://www.camgliding.uk/cgc-shines-at-the-duxford-flying-finale-2024/10252/): On Saturday, 5th October 2024, Cambridge Gliding Centre (CGC) proudly took part in the grand finale of the 2024 Duxford Air Show season. Aerotowed from Gransden Lodge behind our Robin DR400, pilot Shaun Murdoch skillfully flew our 20M Perkoz glider, which became the centerpiece of a striking static display beside the Control Tower. Across from the Perkoz, airside, stood our trusted Robin DR400, completing the perfect showcase.
- [Carter takes to the skies: First solo flight!](https://www.camgliding.uk/carter-takes-to-the-skies-first-solo-flight/10245/): Congratulations to Carter Choi, who completed his first solo flight under the instruction of James Shaw! After working diligently through his training, Carter achieved this significant milestone. The first solo flight is a major achievement for any pilot, marking the moment they confidently take control of the aircraft on their own.
- [Riaz Takes to the Skies: First Solo Flight!](https://www.camgliding.uk/riaz-takes-to-the-skies-first-solo-flight/10201/): Exciting news from the airfield! This week, Riaz has taken the monumental step of flying solo for the first time. Under the careful instruction of David Williams, our newest solo pilot confidently soared through the skies, achieving a milestone that every aviator dreams of.
- [New Solo Pilots Take to the Skies: Congratulations to Harry and Till!](https://www.camgliding.uk/new-solo-pilots-take-to-the-skies-congratulations-to-harry-and-till/10172/): As we approach the tail end of the soaring season this August, the skies over our airfield are still buzzing with activity. While some might think the season is winding down, it's clear that the passion for flying is as strong as ever, with two of our newest pilots achieving a significant milestone.
- [CGC Returned to Little Gransden Airshow August 25th](https://www.camgliding.uk/cgc-returned-to-little-gransden-airshow-august-25th/10158/): Pip Schoobert, the overall organiser of the Little Gransden Airshow, could not have been more helpful in helping CGC return to the show – from giving us the absolute prime spot to ensuring that between both the official airside handlers and CGC we were able to display PZ and our new gazebo and feather flags to advantage.
- [The Cloud Rally Photos](https://www.camgliding.uk/the-cloud-rally-photos/10393/): IMG_2556

## Pages
- [Booking a two-seater training session](https://www.camgliding.uk/welcome-to-cambridge-gliding-club/booking-a-two-seater-training-session/): When and how to book a session with an instructor.
- [A day at the airfield](https://www.camgliding.uk/welcome-to-cambridge-gliding-club/a-day-at-the-airfield/): This page describes a typical day at the airfield so that you know how to prepare, and what to expect.
- [Accessing the club’s systems](https://www.camgliding.uk/welcome-to-cambridge-gliding-club/accessing-the-clubs-systems/): This page goes into more detail about how to access our various facilities to do things like book a flying session, read your membership documents, see your flying records and account, etc.
- [Who is who at our club](https://www.camgliding.uk/welcome-to-cambridge-gliding-club/who-is-who-at-our-club/): (If you haven’t already read it, the How our club works guide is good companion to this.)
- [Training, and training resources](https://www.camgliding.uk/welcome-to-cambridge-gliding-club/training-and-training-resources/): How to learn to fly at our club, and what's available to help you.
- [How our club works](https://www.camgliding.uk/welcome-to-cambridge-gliding-club/how-our-club-works/): Take Full Membership and your spouse pays no membership subscription until the renewal date after they go solo (they just enrol separately). They still pay the normal flying charges for aircraft time. Children of a Full Member join without a membership fee too. After solo, spouse membership continues at a reduced annual rate.
- [Welcome](https://www.camgliding.uk/welcome-to-cambridge-gliding-club/welcome/): We’re really glad you’ve joined our club. This short guide is here to help you feel more confident in your first few weeks, and to help you find the right people when questions come up.
- [Welcome to Cambridge Gliding Club](https://www.camgliding.uk/welcome-to-cambridge-gliding-club/): Here you will find information to help you get started with the club. There's no need to read it all at once - although you're welcome to try! A series of emails will arrive to guide you through the different sections over the coming weeks.
- [Simple Media Submission Form](https://www.camgliding.uk/simple-media-submission-form/): If you have photos or video you would like to be used on the club website and social media but don't want to write a blog post you can submit them here. The images are extremely useful as we can use them as part of a library of images that is available to all contributing writers for the site.
- [Join Cambridge Gliding Club In 2026](https://www.camgliding.uk/join-cambridge-gliding-club-in-2026/): Learn to glide locally, fly more often and be part of a friendly, active club next year. Whether you already know you want to join, or you’d like to try us first, this page explains how it works and how to get started.
- [Club and Airfield History Page](https://www.camgliding.uk/cambridge-gliding-centre-history-page/): https://www.camgliding.uk/233-2/
- [Thanks for visiting Cambridge Gliding Centre](https://www.camgliding.uk/thanks-for-visiting-cambridge-gliding-centre/): Thank you for your interest in Cambridge Gliding Centre! We’d love to keep you in the loop - please consider signing up for our mailing list. You’ll receive advance notice of upcoming events and open days. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
- [Temporary Membership Form Completed](https://www.camgliding.uk/temporary-membership-form-completed/): Thank you for completing the temporary membership form. We have received your form correctly.
- [Bluebell Pics](https://www.camgliding.uk/bluebell-pics/): IMG_5220
- [Posters](https://www.camgliding.uk/posters/): (Click an image to see the full gallery)
- [Content Submission Tutorial](https://www.camgliding.uk/content-submission-tutorial/)
- [Temporary Membership Application Form](https://www.camgliding.uk/temporary-membership-application-form/): This form creates legally binding obligations between you and the Club and must be completed before you fly with us. You should read it carefully before you click "Apply" at the bottom of the form. You must be aged 18 or over to complete this form. If you are not 18 or over a parent/guardian must instead complete a paper form available from the office.
- [Bus Photos](https://www.camgliding.uk/bus-photos/): IMG_8416
- [Submit a news story](https://www.camgliding.uk/submit-a-news-story/): Do you have exciting updates, interesting news, or fun stories related to our club's activities? We'd love to hear from you.
- [Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.camgliding.uk/join/new-members-faq/): Within a few days of joining you will receive more information via email.  You will receive your login details for the members area of the website which includes club information, aircraft status, meeting notes, operations manuals, a who’s who gallery, noticeboard etc.
- [All Products](https://www.camgliding.uk/all-products/)
- [Standard Courses](https://www.camgliding.uk/standard-courses/): Cambridge Gliding Centre offers a wide range of flying courses and experiences for all ages and abilities
- [Enquiry Cart](https://www.camgliding.uk/enquiry-cart/):     Product Price SKU Quantity Message CountryAfghanistanÅland IslandsAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelauBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire, Saint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBruneiBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCanadaCape VerdeCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos (Keeling) IslandsColombiaComorosCongo (Brazzaville)Congo (Kinshasa)Cook IslandsCosta RicaCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzech RepublicDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyIvory CoastJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKosovoKuwaitKyrgyzstanLaosLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorth KoreaNorth MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalestinian TerritoryPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarReunionRomaniaRussiaRwandaSão Tomé and PríncipeSaint BarthélemySaint HelenaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint Martin (Dutch part)Saint Martin (French part)Saint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia/Sandwich IslandsSouth KoreaSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwedenSwitzerlandSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTürkiyeTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited Kingdom (UK)United States (US)United States (US) Minor Outlying IslandsUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVaticanVenezuelaVietnamVirgin Islands (British)Virgin Islands (US)Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabwe
- [Facilities](https://www.camgliding.uk/facilities/): Airfield 100 Acre Grass Airfield 3 runways allowing operation in all wind directions Club House Licensed Bar Members’ Kitchen Briefing Rooms Accommodation Heather suite Bedrooms Small double bedroom Twin bedroom Twin bedroom Caravan Park (members only) Camping Area Shower Block Other Workshop Club Hangar Trailer Parking / T-Hangars with water ballast points
- [About](https://www.camgliding.uk/about/): Cambridge Gliding Centre was founded as Cambridge University Gliding Club in 1935 and has been at Gransden Lodge Airfield since 1991. Now the premier Gliding Club in East Anglia, we are a not-for-profit organisation and a registered Community Amateur Sports Club dedicated to helping people learn to fly and enjoy the sport of gliding. We have received generous support from Sport England to update our launching facilities.
- [Local Residents Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.camgliding.uk/frequently-asked-questions/): We try to avoid overflight of built up areas at low altitudes whenever possible, but this may be necessary when aircraft are taking off or landing, particularly if your property is close to our airfield. This is perfectly legal and permitted under the Air Navigation Order (ANO) which regulates flight by civil operated aircraft.
- [My account](https://www.camgliding.uk/my-account/): Login Username or email address *Required Password *Required Remember me Log in Lost your password?
- [Checkout](https://www.camgliding.uk/checkout/)
- [Basket](https://www.camgliding.uk/basket/): You may be interested in… Your basket is currently empty! New in store
- [Shop](https://www.camgliding.uk/shop/)
- [Membership, Launch and Flying Charges](https://www.camgliding.uk/flying-prices/): We offer a range of membership options including full flying, young person, young adult, temporary. Current rates are shown below. For full details of each membership and how to join, see our membership page.
- [Members Links](https://www.camgliding.uk/members-links/): Events Calendar
- [Buy an experience voucher](https://www.camgliding.uk/buy-an-experience-voucher/): We offer a range of courses and flying experiences, from multi-day courses to short experience flights that make ideal gifts. During the summer months flying takes place seven days per week, weather permitting are available April to October. Availability is very limited during late Autumn and Winter as flying is restricted by weather and daylight hours.
- [Information for Local Residents](https://www.camgliding.uk/information-for-local-residents/): Cambridge University Gliding Club which subsequently became Cambridge Gliding Club and now Cambridge Gliding Centre moved from Duxford Airfield to Gransden Lodge Airfield in 1991.
- [Arriving at Gransden Lodge by Air](https://www.camgliding.uk/arriving-at-gransden-lodge-grl-by-air/): This page is for pilots who may wish to visit Gransden Lodge.
- [Club Management](https://www.camgliding.uk/board-of-directors/): Tom BrandJem DaviesWendy Head
- [Gransden Lodge Airfield History](https://www.camgliding.uk/233-2/): When Gransden Lodge first became operational in 1942, the two units that were initially assigned to the new station were both involved in top-secret work related to radar. The first of these, No. 1418 Flight (later the Bombing Development Unit), carried out trials of some of the inventions that were constantly being produced to assist the R.A.F., including new radar equipment that was to be vital to the success of the Allied bombing campaign against the Axis. The other, No. 1474 Flight (later No.192 Squadron), flew many hazardous missions across Europe, attempting to unlock the secrets of Germany’s radar systems.
- [Airfield Safety Video](https://www.camgliding.uk/airfield-safety-video/): If you have booked an introductory flight, please take the time to watch our short airfield safety video before arriving.
- [Mintel gliding simulator](https://www.camgliding.uk/mintel-gliding-simulator/): https://www.camgliding.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/IMG_1144.mp4
- [My account](https://www.camgliding.uk/my-account-3/): Login Username or email address *Required Password *Required Remember me Log in Lost your password?
- [My account](https://www.camgliding.uk/my-account-2/): Login Username or email address *Required Password *Required Remember me Log in Lost your password?
- [Checkout](https://www.camgliding.uk/checkout-2/)
- [Cart](https://www.camgliding.uk/cart/): What to bring
- [Shop](https://www.camgliding.uk/shop-2/)
- [Our Fleet](https://www.camgliding.uk/122-2/): The Cambridge Gliding Centre boasts one of the finest and most diverse fleets of aircraft nationwide, offering members the flexibility to book any aircraft within their qualification range. This expansive fleet ensures comprehensive training opportunities for members at every stage of their journey. Whether seeking to learn, progress, or simply revel in the joy of flying, there's consistently ample availability across a variety of gliders.
- [Instagram](https://www.camgliding.uk/instagram/)
- [Contact Us](https://www.camgliding.uk/contact-us/)
- [News](https://www.camgliding.uk/news/)
- [Home](https://www.camgliding.uk/): As bucket list ambitions go, flying in a glider is one of the best. You'll experience the world from a perspective most people never see, from a quiet aircraft with amazing panoramic views.
- [How Gliding Works](https://www.camgliding.uk/how-gliding-works/): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uzJWxm54Uo
- [CCTV Privacy Notice](https://www.camgliding.uk/privacy-policy-gdpr-cctv-privacy-notice/): This notice sets out how Cambridge Gliding Club uses your personal information which may be recorded on our CCTV system. This notice explains how we comply with the law on data protection and what your rights are. For the purposes of data protection laws we will be the controller of any of your personal information recorded on our CCTV system.
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.camgliding.uk/privacy-policy-gdpr/): Version 1.3 - November 2021
- [How to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)](https://www.camgliding.uk/how-to-use-an-automated-external-defibrillator-aed/): The AED is beside the main east door to the clubhouse
- [Hertfordshire Scouts](https://www.camgliding.uk/hertfordshire-scouts/): The Cambridge Gliding Centre, in conjunction with Hertfordshire Scouts, operates a Falke motorglider, previously belonging to the Faulkes Flying Foundation, to offer air experience flights to Scouts. 
- [Terms and Conditions](https://www.camgliding.uk/try-gliding/terms-and-conditions/): Gliding is suitable for all ages from 14 upwards You need to weigh less than 102kg (224lb). You cannot fly if you are subject to sudden disabling health attacks such as epilepsy. If you satisfy the medical requirements for a normal UK driving licence you should be fine. Trial flights need to be booked in advance. Gliding is a weather dependent activity and subject, on occasions, to other operational restrictions. Where flights cannot be taken on the intended day a fresh booking will be willingly offered without any penalty. However if an alternative date is not possible for your reasons a refund will normally be possible subject to a handling charge of 15% of the voucher face value. All participants should wear practical clothes and shoes for the trial flight day. Sunglasses and a shaded hat can be useful too, especially during the summer months. We suggest that you contact the club office before leaving home on the big day to confirm that we are flying. Rain, high winds and poor visibility can restrict our activities.
- [Check Out](https://www.camgliding.uk/basket-2/check-out/): Terms & Conditions
- [Cart](https://www.camgliding.uk/basket-2/): Your basket is currently empty. Return to shop
- [Environmental, Health and Safety Policy Statement](https://www.camgliding.uk/environmental-health-and-safety-policy-statement/): As chair of the Cambridge Gliding Centre (CGC), I am ultimately responsible for all Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) issues related to all CGC employees and members on the airfield, and for the protection of others who may be affected by our activities.
- [Child Protection Policy](https://www.camgliding.uk/child-protection-policy/): Cambridge Gliding Centre follows the British Gliding Association (BGA)'s child protection policy.
- [Bursaries and Scholarships](https://www.camgliding.uk/join/bursaries-and-scholarships/): The fund was set up in 2012 following the untimely death of Alex in a cycling accident. Alex had been gliding with the Cambridge Gliding Centre, initially as part of the Cadet scheme and subsequently to a high level of cross country and competition flying.
- [Group Bookings and Introductory Flight Evenings](https://www.camgliding.uk/try-gliding/group-bookings/): Looking for a fun activity for a group of friends, colleagues or members of a club? Introductory flight evenings at Cambridge Gliding Centre are a popular way to experience flight with instructors in the club’s two-seater aircraft. A friendly and relaxed evening with the fun and thrill of tasting flight and admiring the views across Cambridgeshire.
- [Young Person Membership](https://www.camgliding.uk/cadet-scheme/): There is a thriving Young Person scene, both at Cambridge Gliding Centre and throughout the UK. Join our under 18 group and we can teach you:
- [Launch Methods](https://www.camgliding.uk/about-gliding/launch-methods/): Once a gilder is in the air it's the thermal energy in the air and the pilots skill that allows for long and high flights, but to get into the air a glider requires a little help, and this comes in two common forms, a tow from another aircraft or being pulled into the air by a very long cable attached to a winch. CGC offers both these methods. Both are extremely safe, but have different advantages and drawbacks.
- [Join Cambridge Gliding Club as a member](https://www.camgliding.uk/join/): If you want to learn to fly, membership gives you both the greatest flexibility and the best value for money. Membership of the Cambridge Gliding Centre provides a range of benefits including:
- [Competitions](https://www.camgliding.uk/gliding-competitions/): Annually, the Cambridge Gliding Centre hosts the Cloud Rally, an informal  competition designed to accommodate newer cross country pilots as well as the more experienced ones.
- [Find Us](https://www.camgliding.uk/find-us/): Cambridge Gliding Centre is at Gransden Lodge Airfield off the B1046 and is within a short drive of Cambridge, Huntingdon, St Ives, St Neots, Bedford, Biggleswade, and Royston.
- [About Gliding](https://www.camgliding.uk/about-gliding/): Gliding is a recreational activity and competitive air sport, in which pilots fly unpowered aircraft known as gliders. Using naturally occurring currents of rising air to remain airborne, gliders can fly for hours and travel hundreds of kilometres.
- [Try Gliding](https://www.camgliding.uk/try-gliding/): Whether you are looking for an exciting day out for you or a friend or loved one, or you want to take up an incredible new hobby, Cambridge Gliding Centre has a package to suit.

## Calendars
- [CGC Events Calendar](https://www.camgliding.uk/calendar/cgc-events-calendar/): See more details

## Products
- [Simulator introduction to gliding](https://www.camgliding.uk/product/simulator-introduction-to-gliding/): Short introduction text
- [Group Booking](https://www.camgliding.uk/product/group-booking/): Looking for a fun activity for a group of friends, colleagues or members of a club? Introductory flight evenings at Cambridge Gliding Centre are a popular way to experience flight with instructors in the club’s two-seater aircraft. A friendly and relaxed evening with the fun and thrill of tasting flight and admiring the views across Cambridgeshire.
- [Three Month Membership](https://www.camgliding.uk/product/three-month-membership/): Not sure if you are ready to commit to full membership? Three Month Membership lasts for 3 months and includes all benefits of full membership. A great way to make progress learning to fly over a summer or if a five day course doesn't suit you.
- [‘Lite’ Membership](https://www.camgliding.uk/product/lite-membership/): Cambridge Gliding Club Ltd. is a Community Amateur Sport Club (CASC) and has a policy that cost should not be an insurmountable barrier to participation in gliding. We therefore offer a class of membership called ‘Full Flying Lite’ that provides the benefits of a full flying member at reduced cost. It is available to those people who are on low or modest income and are able to show that they cannot afford the normal club fees.
- [Young Person Membership](https://www.camgliding.uk/product/young-person-membership/): Young people up to the age of 18 can join and benefit from heavily discounted membership and flying rates. Cambridge Gliding Centre also operates an annual bursary award scheme aimed at providing financial support for young persons wanting to progress in gliding.
- [Young Adult Membership](https://www.camgliding.uk/product/young-adult-membership/): Young Adult Membership offers full access to the club and its facilities at much-reduced prices. To join you must be over 18* years old, or up to 30* if in full-time education.
- [Full Membership](https://www.camgliding.uk/product/full-membership/): Cambridge Gliding Centre is a large club with a wide range of facilities available for members to use. As a full member you will have access to everything the club has to offer plus the opportunity to get involved with the active social calendar and day to day running of the club. ***Please contact us using the ENQUIRY button below, before purchasing***
- [‘Made For You’ Course](https://www.camgliding.uk/product/experienced-pilot-training/): This is a tailored course for those who have previous flying experience and will be tailored to your specific needs.
- [Five Day flying course](https://www.camgliding.uk/product/five-day-flying-course/): Five days of intensive flying is the best way to rapidly improve your flying, whatever level you are at, but especially as an absolute beginner. Your course will start on a Monday and end on a Friday and during that time you'll be flying with our professional instructors who'll help you advance as quickly or as slowly as you require. As it's a five day course, you'll have time to see all aspects of the club and get to know many of the other members and staff. If you are coming from far away, there's basic bunk room accommodation or camping available on site at member rates, there are also good hotels and B and B accommodation less than 10 miles away.
- [Two Day flying course](https://www.camgliding.uk/product/two-day-flying-course/): This two-day course is specifically designed to get you started on the road to becoming a licensed glider pilot! During your flights the focus will be on learning to control the glider and becoming familiar with the fascinating world of soaring flight. Gliding is a social, participation sport which requires the help of others to get airborne so for your course you will usually be partnered with another beginner and a dedicated instructor.
- [Gold flying course](https://www.camgliding.uk/product/gold-one-day-flying-course/): If you or a friend are keenly  interested in learning to fly a glider, this extended course is a great way to give you a real taste of training to fly solo! Included is a ground briefing session, and flights with an instructor who can teach you the basics of how to fly a glider.  Then a debrief to discuss what you have experienced and next steps, and maybe a simulator session to consolidate if time allows!
- [Silver Introductory Flights](https://www.camgliding.uk/product/silver-introductory-flights/): If you or a friend are interested in learning to fly a glider, but you’ve never tried it before, this is a great way to give you a taste of learning to fly. Included is a ground briefing session, before having two aerotows to 3000ft with an instructor who can teach you the basics of how to fly a glider. Then a debrief to discuss what you have experienced and next steps, and maybe a simulator session to consolidate if time allows! Great for yourself or as a gift. Buy a voucher online, download and print it. You can then call the office to arrange a suitable date..
- [Bronze Introductory Flight](https://www.camgliding.uk/product/bronze-introductory-flight/): An ideal introduction to flying gliders and experiencing silent flight, you will be taken on an aerotow launch to 2500ft with one of our fully trained Flight Pilots in one of our modern high performance two seat sailplanes. Great for yourself or as a gift.