Enjoy Stunning Views Ballooning Over Gosfield
Gosfield is a small Essex village, but one with more history than you might expect. Gosfield Hall, the Georgian mansion on its edge, once sheltered the exiled French king Louis XVIII. Just outside the village, Gosfield Lake stretches out in a long curve of water, and in the surrounding fields there are still traces of a wartime airfield. Balloons launch from farmland here, lifting you quickly into open country.
As the basket rises, Gosfield Hall soon appears below, its long front and gardens easy to pick out among the fields. On some days the balloon drifts towards the lake, where the surface reflects the sky like a sheet of glass. The view has a quiet mix of detail and space — villages, hedgerows, woodland and fields, all laid out in shifting patterns as you move.
To the north lies Halstead, a market town with timber-framed houses and a history of weaving and cloth-making. To the south, the skyline may reveal Colchester, Britain’s oldest recorded town, with its castle keep still standing above the rooftops. Between them lies the patchwork of rural Essex: church towers, farmsteads and winding lanes that seem to gather themselves into a different pattern on every flight.
Flights from Gosfield rarely feel alike. One day the balloon might edge over the lake, the next it may carry you north towards Halstead or south where Colchester appears on the horizon. Sometimes you’ll drift low and notice the shapes of gardens and hedgerows; other times you’ll rise high enough to take in miles of countryside at once. However the wind sets your course, the simple act of lifting off here leaves you with views — and memories — that stay long after you land.
Your Gosfield 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 Gosfield 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 Gosfield 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 Gosfield, 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 Gosfield 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 Gosfield 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 Gosfield 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.