The Ultimate Guide to Hot Air Balloon Rides

Whether you’re looking for the ultimate bucket list goal, planning a special occasion or simply looking for a way to escape the noise, a hot air balloon experience is your ticket to a journey of a lifetime. Just imagine the excitement as you're lifted off the ground, gently rising higher and higher, until the outstanding natural beauty of the UK’s landscapes unfolds beneath you. With the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, every moment is filled with wonder and adventure.

From the rolling hills of the countryside to the vibrant cityscapes, the UK's landscapes will come to life in an utterly beautiful way. In this world above the clouds, there's a sense of serenity, wonder and freedom, where time seems to stand still and worries fade away. It's an entirely magical experience that will stay with you long after your feet touch the ground.

So, if you’ve got adventure on your mind, or you’re simply curious to find out more, we’re here to give you a low down on everything you need to know about hot air ballooning! And the best part? There's a balloon experience for everyone. Whether you're looking for a romantic escape with a private flight, a lively adventure with a group flight, or something a little more out of the ordinary like a glass-bottomed basket (yes, you read that right!), the options are endless and just waiting to be explored!

When Can I Fly?

If you’re not yet sold on the idea of a hot air balloon flight, there is one element that makes it truly magical, and that’s the time we fly. Because what could be more enchanting than witnessing the sunrise or sunset while floating right alongside it? Our sunrise and sunset flights offer a front row seat to nature's most spectacular show. The only question is, would you choose the quiet calm of sunrise or the cosy embrace of sunset? For both offer their own very special magic.

On our sunrise hot air balloon rides, you'll be treated to the beauty of nature as the world slowly wakes up. From the dew covered grass to the early morning chill, you’ll be amidst the first stirrings of the morning, witnessing the world below as it slowly comes to life. As you rise into the sky, you'll see the soft light of dawn rise with you, painting the landscape in gentle shades of gold, and adding a touch of wonder to the start of your day. As mornings go, you’ll be hard pushed to find a more perfect way to start the day.

With a sunset hot air balloon ride, you'll explore the skies, with the cosy rays of sunset adding a warm glow to the landscapes below. As you gently start your descent, the sun will go with you, casting a golden hue across the sky. As the day bids farewell, there's no better way to enjoy the moment than by sipping your prosecco toast as the sun slowly dips behind the horizon. It's a truly magical ending to an unforgettable journey through the skies.

So whether you're an early bird ready to start the day with a sense of adventure or someone who loves to unwind while watching the sunset, our hot air balloon rides provide a unique way to create memories and experience these magical moments from a truly unique vantage point.

Which Experience is For Me?

With a variety of hot air balloon experiences to choose from, there's something for everyone, no matter the occasion. For those seeking a romantic escape, our private flights offer an intimate journey through the skies, perfect for marriage proposals or as a wedding present. If you prefer to share the adventure with friends or family, our group flights provide a lively atmosphere filled with laughter and camaraderie. And for those looking to add a unique twist to their experience, our speciality flights, promise a truly memorable experience, unlike any other.

Hot Air Balloon Flight

Perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends, our passenger hot air balloon rides offer an unforgettable experience for all. Whether you're seeking a romantic escapade, a family adventure, or a fun outing with friends, our flights provide an hour of pure exhilaration in the sky. With breathtaking views and the camaraderie of fellow passengers, you'll create memories to treasure forever. And to top it all off, you’ll get to raise a glass of prosecco in celebration and leave with a signed flight certificate as proof of your adventure amongst the clouds.

Private Hot Air Balloon Ride for 2

Embark on a truly special experience with our private hot air balloon ride for 2. Picture yourselves floating gracefully above the stunning landscapes of Bristol or Bath, two areas renowned for their natural beauty. With just the two of you and the pilot in the private basket, you'll enjoy shared moments of wonder and elation as you glide through the sky, with beautiful views stretching out below you. From the moment you arrive at the launch site, the whole experience is tailored to create unforgettable memories and magical moments.

Seated Hot Air Balloon Flight

Experience the extraordinary with our Seated Hot Air Balloon Flight, a truly unique and special adventure that promises breathtaking views and unforgettable memories. Departing from launch sites in Bristol or Bath, this experience offers some of the most beautiful views in the UK.

What really sets this experience apart is the opportunity to enjoy the scenery in comfort and style from our specially designed seated baskets. Unlike traditional standing baskets, our seated option provides added comfort and stability, allowing you to relax and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. Plus, with the addition of a drinks package, where you can savour a glass of bubbly champagne at 5000 ft, this journey becomes even more magical and unique.

Engagement Flight

Looking to sweep her off her feet with a proposal of her dreams? Our hot air balloon Engagement Flight offers the perfect setting for popping the question in style. Take to the skies on a hot air balloon experience for 2, where you'll enjoy champagne and breathtaking views of Bristol or Bath. With a 360 video included in your experience, you’ll be able to relive your special moment as often as you choose.

Glass Bottomed Hot Air Balloon

Introducing our Glass Bottomed Hot Air Balloon experience—not for the faint-hearted! This thrilling adventure takes excitement to new heights, quite literally. Perfect for thrill-seekers and adventurers looking to add a dash of daring to their day, this unique journey offers an unparalleled perspective of the world below. With a transparent floor providing a bird's-eye view of the landscape passing beneath you, every moment is filled with wonder and a big dose of adrenaline. Whether you're gifting it to a daredevil friend or treating yourself to an unforgettable experience, our Glass Bottomed Hot Air Balloon ride is the perfect present for those looking to elevate their sense of adventure to new heights. Get ready to laugh, scream, and marvel at the view—all at the same time!

Where Can I Fly From?

Wondering where you can take flight with us? Our passenger flights are available from over 100 locations across the UK, making it convenient for you to experience the thrill of hot air ballooning wherever you are. However, if you're looking to embark on one of our speciality flights, such as our Engagement or Glass Bottomed Hot Air Balloon experiences, you'll want to head to Bristol or Bath. These picturesque locations provide the perfect backdrop for your unique adventure, ensuring that your journey with us is nothing short of extraordinary. So whether you're soaring over the countryside or admiring the cityscape from above, get ready for an unforgettable ride with us.

What Can I Expect on the Day?

A hot air balloon adventure is an experience like no other, filled with anticipation, wonder and a tonne of excitement. Here's what you can expect on the day of your unforgettable journey:

Arrival
Your adventure begins with an early start for a sunrise flight or a late afternoon arrival for a sunset flight. Arrive at the launch site between 5 am to 8.30 am for sunrise or 4 pm to 6.30 pm for sunset, all dependent on the time of year.

Balloon Inflation
Upon arrival, you’ll get to witness or even participate in the inflation of the balloon.

Take Off
Climb aboard and prepare for liftoff as the balloon reaches full inflation. Experience the thrill of take off as the balloon gently sweeps you up into the sky.

Hot Air Balloon Experience
Spend the next hour immersed in the wonder of the skies as you drift effortlessly through the air. Marvel at panoramic views of the landscape below, taking in the beauty of the world from the best seats in the house.

Gentle Landing
Your experienced pilot guides the balloon back to Earth for a gentle landing.

Balloon Deflation
After landing, you’ll have the opportunity to join in the team effort of deflating and packing away the balloon, ready for its next adventure.

Celebration
To celebrate your hot air balloon adventure, you’ll enjoy a shared moment of reflection as you raise a glass of prosecco to the incredible experience.

What Should I Wear On a Hot Air Balloon Flight?

When it comes to dressing for your sky high adventure, we've got you covered with some top tips to keep you both stylish and comfortable. First and foremost, layering is key—choose clothing that allows you to adjust to changing temperatures throughout the flight. Opt for warm, comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting a little dirty, as you’ll have the exciting opportunity to help with inflation and deflation of the balloon. For footwear, go for flat and sturdy shoes that make climbing into the basket and walking across potentially muddy fields a breeze. A hat is always a good idea as this will protect your head from the heat of the burner, and if it’s a sunny day, you can’t go wrong with a pair of sunglasses to keep the sun out of your eyes.

How Long is the Hot Air Balloon Flight?

Ever wondered how long your hot air balloon adventure lasts? Get ready for an hour of pure exhilaration as you soar through the skies, taking in breathtaking views from above. The whole experience is a whirlwind of excitement that can span up to 4 hours. You'll have the chance to roll up your sleeves and help inflate and deflate the balloon, adding to the thrill of the journey. Once you touch down, it's time to raise a glass with a prosecco toast, celebrating your incredible hot air balloon ride.

Hot Air Ballooning and The Weather

When it comes to hot air ballooning, safety always comes first. Our priority is to ensure the safety and enjoyment of our passengers, which is why we closely monitor weather conditions. We'll never fly if the weather isn't just right—it needs to be a clear, dry day with minimal winds for the best possible experience. While we understand that waiting for perfect weather can be disappointing, your safety is our top concern. So rest assured, when you take to the skies with us, you'll be in good hands, and we'll make sure your ballooning adventure is nothing short of fantastic.

Is Hot Air Ballooning Safe?

Worrying about the safety of hot air ballooning? Don’t be, it's an incredibly safe activity. In the UK, hot air ballooning is tightly regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority, and our pilots all hold full commercial pilot’s licences, ensuring they're highly trained and experienced. We adhere to strict safety guidelines and protocols to ensure the safety of every flight.

Unlike other forms of aviation, there are no sudden movements or turbulence to contend with. Instead, flights are gentle and serene, allowing passengers to relax and enjoy the breathtaking views without worry. So sit back, relax, and let us take care of the rest—your safety is our top priority, and we'll ensure you have a memorable and worry-free experience from start to finish.

Hot Air Balloon Festivals

Hot air balloon festivals are enchanting events where the skies come alive with a colourful display of balloons, creating a magical experience for everyone. A major highlight of these festivals is the mass launch, where dozens of balloons ascend together, filling the sky with vibrant colours. For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the experience, there’s even the opportunity to participate in a flight during the mass ascent, offering a breathtaking view and a chance to feel the magic firsthand. As night falls, the festivities continue with the night glow, where balloons light up in sync with music, creating a dazzling light show. Held in beautiful locations across the UK, these festivals provide a unique and unforgettable experience. To find the nearest event, explore our ultimate guide to hot air balloon festivals.