Travel bucket list idea:
Hot-air balloon flights over Bath
Bath, Somerset, United Kingdom (UK)
Last updated: 18 March, 2024
For an alternative view of Bath’s sublime architecture, and for soaking up the scenery of the rolling hills of north Somerset that surround this picturesque city, take to the sky in a hot-air balloon.
There are private and Champagne options for something more extravagant, and even piloting lessons available here for budding balloonists.
Logistics
Price from: £120
Minimum age: 7
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around
Duration: 4 hours
Getting there & doing it
Take-off is from Victoria Park – your balloon tour operator will tell you the precise location to head for. A round trip takes three to four hours, with the flight lasting around an hour.
There’s no minimum age, but children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult and must be able to stand unsupported for an hour. Children under 6 are usually too small to see over the top of the basket.
Dress as if you’re going for a country walk – your balloon may land in a field. And bring a hat as the burners are surprisingly hot.
When to do it
The ballooning season runs from March to October. Flights usually depart around 6am or 6pm.
Dawn and dusk are the most delightful times for viewing the city; they’re also the most reliable times of day for still air, which is essential.
