Enjoy Stunning Views Ballooning Over Gillingham
Gillingham is the most northerly town in Dorset, its story stretching back to Saxon times. A charter from the 10th century records its name, while later centuries saw it become a royal hunting ground, visited by kings from Henry I to Henry III. Today, its history lingers in St Mary’s Church, where a Saxon cross shaft still stands, and in the Tudor and Victorian buildings that line the town. From just outside Gillingham, at North Dorset Rugby Football Club, hot air balloons lift into the skies above this richly varied landscape.
The launch is gentle yet unforgettable. The noise of the burners soon fades, and the balloon begins to slip free of the ground. Below, North Dorset stretches out in fields, hedges and church spires, with villages tucked into the valleys. The wind might carry you over Blackmore Vale, a wide stretch of farmland and woods that Thomas Hardy wrote about, or it might drift you east towards the chalk ridges of Wiltshire. To the east lie the borders of Wiltshire, where the downs rise in long chalk ridges, while to the west the folds of Somerset begin to take shape. On clear mornings, the views can run across several counties at once, each with its own pattern of fields, rivers and ridges.
Every flight is different. Some journeys stay low, giving close views of farmsteads and quiet villages, while others climb high to reveal a panorama that shifts with the light. The mix of calm, discovery and gentle surprise is what makes ballooning here so memorable.
A Gillingham hot air balloon ride is both a step into Dorset’s deep history and a way of seeing the county anew — an experience that feels unhurried, rooted, and quietly unforgettable.
Your Gillingham 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 Gillingham 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 Dorset!
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 Gillingham 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 Gillingham, 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 Gillingham 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 Gillingham 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 Gillingham 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.