Bath: Hot Air Balloon Flight

Imagine floating high above one of England’s most charming cities—Bath, with its honey-colored Georgian buildings and Roman ruins—without any noise, just the whisper of the breeze. That’s what a hot air balloon ride offers. This experience, offered by Fly Away Ballooning, is an elegant way to take in the sights from a completely new angle. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just looking for a memorable adventure, this flight promises a peaceful, exhilarating escape above the rolling countryside.

What we really like about this tour is how special the views are—seeing Bath from above transforms the familiar into something extraordinary. The serenity of the balloon drifting with the breeze is another big plus, making it feel like a truly calm and reflective moment. However, it’s worth noting that weather conditions can impact your flight, which could mean some unpredictability. This experience is best suited for those who love unique perspectives and aren’t expecting a high-energy adventure but rather a relaxed, scenic journey.

If you’re someone who appreciates picturesque landscapes and a touch of thrill, this tour could be just right. It’s also great for travelers who enjoy small-group settings, ensuring a more intimate experience. Just remember, this isn’t suitable for children under 7 or pregnant women, and you’ll need to bring your sense of adventure—and a camera!

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of Bath reveal the city’s Georgian elegance and Roman ruins from a fresh perspective.
• Peaceful yet exhilarating: floating high in the sky offers a calm but exciting experience.
• Flexible scheduling: choose between morning or afternoon flights to fit your plans.
• Weather dependent: your flight is subject to weather conditions, so flexibility is key.
• Small group setting: limited to 8 participants, making it a more personal experience.
• Landing in a field provides a gentle, memorable finish to your sky-high journey.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Hot Air Balloon Experience

When we think about hot air balloon rides, the first thing that comes to mind is the sense of calm and wonder. This tour, lasting about three hours, is designed to give you that feeling while showcasing Bath in all its glory. From initial meet-up with your pilot and crew to the final gentle bump of the landing, every moment is crafted for a memorable, scenic experience.

Your adventure begins with watching the balloon being inflated—a spectacle in itself as the fabric billows and the burners roar. The crew’s professionalism and the anticipation in the air are contagious. Once you’re in the basket, the takeoff is smooth, and you’ll be surprised by how gentle the ascent feels. It’s the perfect way to transition from the bustling streets below to the quiet, panoramic views above.

What to Expect During the Flight

First off, you’ll meet your pilot and crew in a designated spot in Bath. After a quick safety briefing, you’ll watch the balloon inflating, which is quite a spectacle—expect bright fabric unfurling and a bit of a warm-up from the burners. When you’re ready, you’ll step into the basket, which feels surprisingly sturdy and spacious for such a small group.

The flight itself lasts approximately 45-60 minutes, and during this time, you’ll drift with the breeze over Bath and the surrounding countryside. The views are what make this experience stand out—looking down at the honey-colored Georgian architecture, the Roman baths, and the undulating Cotswolds in the distance. Many reviews highlight how stunning the views are, mentioning that you can see details like tiny cars and winding streets from above.

The silence in the balloon is absolute, broken only by the occasional burst of the burners. It’s a peaceful moment, perfect for photography or just soaking in the landscape. As you glide along, you’ll wave at people below, feeling a sense of connection with the world beneath you. The flight ends with a gentle descent and a land in a field, which is usually a smooth and controlled bump. Some reviews mention the landing site might vary, which adds an element of unpredictability but also keeps things interesting.

The Landing and Post-Flight Experience

Landing in a field might sound a bit rustic, but it’s part of the charm of ballooning. You’ll often feel a slight bump, but it’s nothing to worry about—more like a gentle nudge. The crew is experienced and ensures a safe landing, often in a spot you likely wouldn’t find on your own.

After landing, there’s typically a small celebration with a traditional champagne toast or a friendly chat with your pilot and fellow passengers. It’s a great opportunity to share your impressions and ask questions about the flight. Since the entire experience is limited to small groups—maximum of 8 participants—you’ll find it feels intimate and personal.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts about three hours, including setup, flight, and landing. You can choose between morning or afternoon flights, depending on your schedule, giving some flexibility. The flight is weather dependent, so if conditions aren’t ideal, your pilot may reschedule or cancel, offering a full refund if needed—something we appreciate for peace of mind.

What to bring? Pack sunglasses (sun glare can be strong at altitude), a camera to capture those incredible views, and comfortable clothing suitable for the weather. It’s worth noting that the experience isn’t suitable for children under 7 or pregnant women, aligning with safety guidelines.

Pricing and value: While not cheap, the cost reflects the quality of the experience—small groups, expert pilots, and the breathtaking scenery. Considering the uniqueness of floating above Bath and the memories created, many travelers find the price justified.

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What the Reviews Say

Travelers consistently praise the stunning views and the serene, slow pace of the flight. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the city looked from above, drifting quietly over the rooftops was magical.” Others mention how smooth the takeoff and landing were, with comments like “The whole experience was well-organized and felt very safe.”

Of course, some mention the unpredictability of weather, so it’s wise to keep your schedule flexible. A few pointed out that the landing site can vary, which adds a little adventure to the final moments, but overall, the experience is well-received for its peacefulness and stunning scenery.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This balloon ride is perfect for anyone looking for a scenic, tranquil adventure. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy panoramic views, peaceful moments, and small-group experiences. Since it’s not suitable for small children or pregnant women, it’s best for adults and older children who can appreciate the quiet and the novelty of flying.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, this is a rare chance to get aerial shots of Bath’s architecture and countryside. It’s also a beautiful option for couples or small groups wanting a memorable, Instagram-worthy moment. However, if you’re after an adrenaline rush or a high-energy activity, this might not be the right fit.

The Sum Up

A hot air balloon flight over Bath offers a calm, stunning perspective of one of England’s most beautiful cities. The experience balances gentle thrill with breathtaking scenery, making it a travel highlight for those who enjoy quiet, scenic adventures. The small-group setting ensures a personal touch, and the flexible scheduling allows you to fit it into your trip comfortably.

While weather can impact the flight, the professionalism of the crew and the safety measures in place provide reassurance. The views of Bath’s Georgian elegance, Roman ruins, and the surrounding countryside are truly special—something you’ll remember long after you’ve landed. It’s a perfect activity for travelers craving a peaceful yet awe-inspiring experience that elevates their visit.

This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate scenic beauty, unique perspectives, and memorable experiences that don’t rely on adrenaline but on simple awe. If you’re open to the weather’s whims and looking for a peaceful way to see Bath, this hot air balloon ride could be just the thing.

FAQ

Is this tour weather dependent? Yes, the flight relies on suitable weather conditions. If the weather isn’t right, the flight may be canceled or rescheduled, but you can get a full refund if that happens.

How long does the flight last? The actual flying time is about 45-60 minutes, but the entire experience, including setup and landing, is around three hours.

What should I bring? Pack sunglasses, a camera, and comfortable clothes suited to the weather. It’s best to dress in layers since temperatures can vary.

Is this experience suitable for children? No, children under 7 years old and pregnant women are not advised to take part.

What is the group size? The flight is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate and relaxed experience.

Can I choose my flight time? Yes, you can select a morning or afternoon flight depending on your schedule.

What happens if the flight is canceled? If weather conditions aren’t suitable, the flight will be canceled, and you’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Where do I land? The landing site may vary, but it is typically in a field, and the landing is usually smooth with a gentle bump.

If you’re after an experience that combines tranquil beauty with a dash of adventure, this hot air balloon ride over Bath might just be your perfect escape. It promises views that stay with you long after descending, and a sense of calm that’s hard to find elsewhere.

You can check availability for your dates here: