Enjoy Stunning Views Ballooning Over Ashton Court
Ashton Court is one of Bristol’s great green landmarks, a broad sweep of parkland, woodland and deer country rising just beyond the Avon Gorge. At its heart stands Ashton Court Mansion, a historic house shaped over centuries and set among formal gardens, old trees and open grassland.
The estate is closely tied to Bristol’s ballooning identity, becoming internationally known as the home of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, when the skies above the park fill with colour.
Balloon flights from Ashton Court begin in surroundings that feel surprisingly rural for somewhere so close to the city. As the basket rises above the estate, its lawns, woodland paths and grazing deer fall away beneath you. The view soon opens towards the limestone cliffs of the Avon Gorge, with the Clifton Suspension Bridge stretching between them and the River Avon winding below towards Bristol’s harbour.
Beyond the gorge, the city’s landmarks begin to appear. Church towers and Georgian terraces climb the hills, Cabot Tower stands above Brandon Hill, and the harbourside reveals its mix of historic docks, converted warehouses and modern buildings. On a clear morning, the SS Great Britain may be picked out beside the waterfront, while farther east the rooftops of Bristol spread towards the countryside separating the city from Bath.
The wind decides what comes next. A flight may drift west towards the Severn Estuary, with the Mendip Hills, Severn Bridges and the coast opening across the horizon. Other breezes carry the balloon south over Somerset farmland or east towards Bath and its surrounding hills. Wherever the route leads, a balloon ride from Ashton Court combines the calm of open parkland with remarkable views across Bristol, countryside and distant coast.
Your Ashton Court Balloon Ride Experience
Arrive &
Welcome
Inflate &
Fire Up
Take Off &
Enjoy the Views
Photos &
Memories
Landing
Adventure
Celebration
Toast
At The Launch Site
Your unforgettable balloon ride in Ashton Court will start with a full safety briefing, then comes the thrill of inflating the balloon! Join in, or sit back and soak up the atmosphere. When it’s time, there is no escaping the collective excitement as the burners fire up and the balloon starts to prepare itself for taking you up, up and away on a ballooning adventure over Somerset!
The Experience
When it is time to get on board, you will wonder what you have gotten yourself into perhaps, but it won't be long before your worries are swept away by the glorious views of the Ashton Court countryside unfolding beneath you. You will get to enjoy them too, as you will have around an hour to drink it all in. Amazing memories you will get to keep for a lifetime!
The Perfect Gift
Finding a gift for someone who already seems to have everything is never easy. A hot air balloon flight offers something a little different: peaceful views, a sense of adventure and the chance to see the world from a whole new (and stunning!) perspective. Although this page highlights balloon flights from Ashton Court, gift vouchers can be used at locations throughout the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the experience last?
The flight itself usually lasts around an hour, but you should allow approximately four hours for the full experience, including briefing, inflation, landing and return transport.
When do balloon flights take place?
Balloon flights usually take place around sunrise or sunset, when the air is most stable and the light is often at its best.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable outdoor clothing and flat shoes. Launch fields can be damp or uneven, so it is best to dress for a countryside walk.
Where will we land?
The landing spot depends on the wind direction on the day. The balloon crew follows during the flight and returns passengers to the original meeting point afterwards.
Can children take part?
Children can take part in hot air balloon flights provided they are aged seven or over and at least 4ft 6in (1.4m) tall. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Requirements can occasionally vary, so it is always worth checking the latest voucher terms before booking.
What happens if my flight is cancelled?
Balloon flights are weather dependent and may occasionally need to be cancelled if conditions are not suitable for flying. If this happens, you can easily rebook for another date under the voucher's extension policy. These precautions are taken to help ensure your safety and the best possible balloon flight experience.
On the Day
Every balloon flight is a little different, but here's a glimpse of what you can expect from arrival through to landing and celebration.
Meet the Crew
Arrive at the Ashton Court launch site and receive a detailed and informative safety briefing from an experienced ace pilot or crew member.
Light her up
Participate in inflating the balloon or just enjoy the atmosphere as the burner lights up and the balloon envelope begins to fill.
Take Off
Climb aboard and drift gently away from the Ashton Court launch field. Experience a true sensation of getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Enjoy the Views
Take in spectacular scenery surrounding Ashton Court from a unique perspective. With 360° views you will fill your hour's flight with pointing, oohing and ahhing.
Touch Down
Every landing is part of the adventure. This is how balloons have been landing for 200 years+ and the balloon is designed for it to be safe and comfortable.
Inside the Balloon
Celebrating the adventure before everything gets packed away. Say goodbye to the marvellous invention that carried you and your companions through the air.
Join the Fun
Many passengers enjoy helping the crew pack away the balloon after landing. This is an entirely optional activity but loads of fun.
Toast Your Experience
Enjoy a celebratory glass of bubbly or soft drink if you prefer. A toast to you and your companions on completing your airborne adventure.