Enjoy Stunning Views Ballooning Over Guildford
Guildford lies at the foot of the Surrey Hills, a historic market town framed by the chalk ridge of the North Downs. Its steep High Street climbs past Georgian façades and medieval gates, while Guildford Castle, built soon after the Norman Conquest, still crowns the hill. The modern cathedral, consecrated in 1961, rises in striking brick above the town, a landmark visible for miles around. Despite its proximity to London, Guildford feels both self-contained and green, a town where the countryside comes almost to the edge of the centre.
Balloon flights launch from Shalford Park, just to the south of the town. The take-off is calm, the River Wey and the fields of the park slipping away as the balloon lifts into the air. At once the North Downs stretch out beneath you, a rolling ridge of woodland and open slopes. Depending on the breeze, you may drift over Guildford itself, with the castle ruins, the Tunsgate Arch, and the cathedral all easy to pick out from above.
To the south, the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty spreads away in a quilt of woodland and villages, punctuated by church spires and winding lanes. To the north, on very clear days, the horizon sometimes reveals the distant outlines of London — a faint line of towers beyond the edge of the Downs. Westward, the countryside leads towards Hampshire, with long horizons and pockets of heathland.
Every flight here is guided only by the wind. Some mornings you may float low over the ridges and valleys of the Downs, where every curve of the land is picked out by shadow. On other days the air carries you higher, until Surrey spreads like a patchwork beneath you. However it unfolds, ballooning from Guildford offers the rare chance to see one of England’s most beautiful counties from above, balanced between town, ridge, and horizon.
Your Guildford 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 Guildford 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 Surrey!
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 Guildford 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 Guildford, 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 Guildford 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 Guildford 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 Guildford 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.