SOTA Activation Reports

Allt y Main is a peaceful 356m Marilyn west of Welshpool. I followed forest tracks to a summit bench with panoramic views. First of five activations today.

Penycloddiau hosts one of Wales' largest Iron Age hillforts. I walked through forest and heather moor to the summit. A busy 27-contact activation.

Mynydd Rhyd Ddu is a quick 1-point Marilyn in Denbighshire. I approached from the northwest via farm tracks. A handy stopover en route to Snowdonia.

Carnmenellis is a Cornish Marilyn with notoriously difficult access. Cattle blocking the path and an unwelcoming local made this a challenging activation.

Brown Willy is Cornwall’s highest point on Bodmin Moor. I approached via Rough Tor Road in steady rain, navigating around cattle and wild ponies.

Watch Croft is the highest point in West Penwith. A quick roadside activation with sea views, though gorse bushes complicate antenna setup.

Pico do Arieiro in Madeira is an accessible volcanic peak offering stunning views. I took a taxi to the summit and activated on 20m HF. A scenic trip.

Botley Hill is marked by radio masts and accessible by road. Activated in the rain using EFHW antenna. Not scenic but easy to combine with Leith Hill.

Crowborough summit lies within the town itself. Park at the golf club, operate from adjacent woodland. Quick activation, not a hillwalking highlight.

Detling Hill is the most easterly G/SE summit. Drive-on access with good facilities for portable operation.