This the only way to fly. A hot air balloon ride may not get you as far as an aeroplane, but it is a far more satisfying experience. To see the world from a bird's eye view must be a truly awing experience.
If you fancy trying something different, then hot air ballooning will be a unique experience that you will carry with you for the rest of your life. Just imagine being so close to a cloud that you can almost touch it. And with those breathtaking views, a camera is a must (just be sure not to drop it).
Taking a hot air balloon ride is a bit like being an old time sailor. You are at the mercy of the winds, and will go wherever it takes you. That does sound a little scary, but with experienced pilots, there's no need to worry. Just look at the beauty of your surroundings and you'll soon be put at ease.
There are a remarkable number of companies that offer hot air balloon rides, each providing a different experience.
Virgin
1. A 3-4 hour ride.
2. The chance to help inflate and deflate the balloon
3. Champagne
4. A certificate
5. Over 100 launch sites to choose from
Packages start from £119 per person, but there is also a special £89 Christmas offer.
Go Ballooning
1. A 1 hour ride
2. The chance to help inflate the balloon
3. Champagne
4. A certificate
5. Over 100 launch sites to choose from
6. Professional taken photo of you in the air
Both normal and Christmas packages start from £110.
Balloons Over Britain
1. A 1 hour ride
2. Choice of balloons
Packages star from £89 per person and flights are available between March and October.
British School of Ballooning
1. Professional taken photo of you in the air
2. Sunset and Sunset rides
3. A certificate
4. 15 launch sites to choose from.
Packages start from £99 and flights are available between March and October.