Enjoy Stunning Views Ballooning Over Brentwood
Brentwood sits on the edge of London’s orbit yet keeps a distinctly Essex character — a market town surrounded by woodlands, parks and historic houses. It has become famous in recent years as the filming base of The Only Way Is Essex, but its past runs deeper, from medieval chapels to Tudor mansions. Just north of town, at The Brentwood Centre, hot air balloons lift into the sky and reveal how easily city and countryside meet here.
The launch is gentle at first, the basket lifting clear as Brentwood’s rooftops slip away. Soon the green spaces that fringe the town begin to stand out: country parks, commons and stretches of woodland that once inspired artists such as John Constable, whose sketches captured the light of this part of Essex. Depending on the breeze, flights may carry you further across the county or towards the skyline of London itself.
Among the landmarks to watch for is Ingatestone Hall, a 16th-century mansion built by Sir William Petre, once Secretary of State to four Tudor monarchs. From above, its gabled roofs and formal gardens are framed by acres of parkland. Other winds may open wider views — west towards the Thames Valley, or north across the patchwork of villages and farmland that make up the Essex countryside.
No two journeys are alike. Some days the balloon drifts low, close enough to follow lanes and fields; other times it climbs higher, revealing the outer edges of London on one horizon and the rolling fields of Essex on the other. The mix is what makes Brentwood special: part of the commuter belt, part of a rural county, and from the air, a seamless meeting of the two.
A Brentwood hot air balloon ride offers a rare perspective — close to the capital, yet calm, unhurried and entirely shaped by the wind.
Your Brentwood 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 Brentwood 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 Essex!
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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood, 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood 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.