Discover Beautiful Balloon Flights in the Lake District & Cumbria
Few places in Britain suit a hot air balloon adventure quite like the Lake District and Cumbria. Four launch sites offer wonderfully different ways to experience the region from above: Carlisle in the north, Dalemain beside the Ullswater countryside, Kirkby Lonsdale on the south-eastern fringe, and Graythwaite Estate close to Windermere. From rugged fells and shining lakes to river valleys, historic estates and wide Cumbrian farmland, every location provides a memorable setting for take-off.
Each launch point has its own character. Graythwaite places Windermere and the southern fells close at hand; Dalemain looks towards Ullswater and the northern Lake District; Kirkby Lonsdale combines the Lune Valley with easy reach of both the Lakes and the Yorkshire Dales; and Carlisle opens onto the broad landscapes of northern Cumbria.
Carlisle
Cumbria
Cumbria’s Historic Border City
Carlisle flights begin at the racecourse on the city’s southern edge. The historic border city, Eden Valley and broad Cumbrian farmland create a varied panorama, with the northern Lake District fells and Pennines rising in the distance on clear days.
Dalemain
Cumbria
Explore Ullswater
Dalemain begins in the grounds of one of Cumbria’s most beautiful historic estates, close to Penrith and Ullswater. Parkland, the Eden Valley and the northern fells surround the launch site, creating a wonderfully scenic introduction to the Lake District.
Kirkby Lonsdale
Cumbria
Gateway to the Lake District
Kirkby Lonsdale launches beside the River Lune at Devil’s Bridge. The town’s stone buildings, winding river and green valley lie between the southern Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, giving the flight a distinctive blend of Cumbrian landscapes.
Graythwaite Estate
Cumbria
Windermere Lakeside
Graythwaite Estate offers a magical southern Lake District setting close to the western shore of Windermere. Woodland, parkland, lake water and surrounding fells combine to create one of Cumbria’s most memorable places to take to the skies.
From Windermere’s wooded shores and Ullswater’s mountain country to the Lune Valley and Cumbria’s historic border city, these four launch sites show just how varied ballooning around the Lake District can be. The breeze chooses the route on the day, so every flight reveals a slightly different side of the county — and that sense of discovery is all part of the magic.
Your Balloon Ride Experience in the Lake District
Arrive &
Welcome
Inflate &
Fire Up
Take Off &
Enjoy the Views
Photos &
Memories
Landing
Adventure
Celebration
Toast
At The Launch Site
Your balloon ride in the Lake District begins at one of four established launch sites across Cumbria. After a full safety briefing, you can watch the crew prepare and inflate the envelope before the burners fire and the basket lifts gently away from the field.
The Experience
Lakes, fells, historic estates, river valleys and open Cumbrian countryside unfold beneath the basket. With around an hour in the air and a route chosen by the breeze, every Lake District balloon flight offers its own remarkable perspective.
The Perfect Gift
A Lake District hot air balloon ride makes an unforgettable gift for someone who values experiences over possessions. Vouchers highlighted on this page can also be used at suitable launch locations across the UK, giving the recipient flexibility as well as an extraordinary view of Cumbria.
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 one of the launch sites in and around the Lake District 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 your chosen launch field in Cumbria. Experience a true sensation of getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Enjoy the Views
Take in spectacular Lake District and Cumbrian scenery 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 Cumbrian airborne adventure.