Enjoy Stunning Views Ballooning Over Norwich
Norwich is a city with layers of history, culture, and quiet charm. Once England’s second city after London, its skyline is still dominated by the great spire of the cathedral, rising above a tangle of medieval lanes, churches, and old guildhalls. Norwich Castle sits high on its mound nearby, and between the two runs a patchwork of streets where markets, shops, and half-timbered buildings keep the centre lively. It is a place that has always embraced change — the first to print a local newspaper in 1701, the first to trial postcodes in 1959 — yet it holds tightly to its long story.
Balloon flights launch from Strawberry Fields on Bluebell Road, close to Earlham Park, giving a rare chance to see the city unfold from above. As the balloon rises, the towers and spires of Norwich soon gather into view. Look closely and you may spot some of the famous “Norwich 12” — the collection of historic landmarks that chart the city’s past, from the Norman keep of the castle to Dragon Hall, the Guildhall, and of course the cathedral itself with its soaring spire. The River Wensum winds quietly through the scene, a silver thread that has shaped Norwich since its earliest days.
Beyond the city, the Norfolk countryside opens wide. Villages scatter across fields, church towers punctuate the flat landscape, and the patchwork of farmland runs out towards the horizon. On very clear days, the waterways of the Norfolk Broads may appear faintly in the distance, their broad expanses of water and reed beds catching the light.
Every flight depends on the wind. On one morning the balloon may skim low over the city, close enough to see how the Wensum twists around rooftops and spires. On another, the air pushes you further out, and suddenly it’s fields and flat horizons as far as you can look. Sometimes you climb high, sometimes you stay close to the ground. There’s no set pattern — and that unpredictability is part of the charm. From Norwich, what you see is always shifting, but it’s always Norfolk.
Your Norwich 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 Norwich 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 Norfolk!
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 Norwich 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 Norwich, 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 Norwich 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 Norwich 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 Norwich 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.