Drones at the Wittenham Clumps
Drones offer new ways of experiencing and recording our incredible landscape. They have provided vital information about our sites and created amazing images — but they can also interfere with visitors’ safe enjoyment and disturb wildlife.
Our sites include Sites of Special Scientific Interest, rare farmland birds, and memorial areas which people visit to remember loved ones. For these reasons, we ask that all drone flying is carried out safely, respectfully and only with prior permission.
Applying for permission
We do not routinely grant permission, but we will consider requests on a case-by-case basis (for example for educational, research, or agreed commercial purposes).
If you wish to apply, please contact us in advance at [email protected] with details of your proposed flight. We will ask you to provide:
- Evidence of Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) registration and insurance
- A risk assessment covering the flight location and timing
- Confirmation that flights will avoid disturbance to wildlife, livestock, and other visitors
We will not give permission for recreational or unlicensed drone operators to use our land for take-off and landing.
Visitor concerns
If you see a drone being used in a way that causes a public nuisance or feels unsafe, Thames Valley Police recommend contacting them in the first instance. We may also ask drone operators to stop flying if activity is unsafe or inappropriate.
Thank you for helping us keep Earth Trust spaces safe and enjoyable for everyone.
