Enjoy Stunning Views Ballooning Over Shrewsbury
Shrewsbury is a town shaped by the River Severn, almost completely encircled by its great loop of water. Within that bend lies a place rich in history: narrow lanes known as “shuts,” black-and-white timber buildings, and churches that mark centuries of change. Charles Darwin was born here in 1809, and it is easy to imagine him wandering the same winding streets. On the northern edge of town stands the Flax Mill, built in 1797 and often called the world’s first skyscraper — not for its height, but for its pioneering iron frame that set the pattern for buildings to come.
Balloon flights launch from Battlefield 1403 Farm, just outside Shrewsbury, close to the site of the 1403 Battle of Shrewsbury. As the balloon rises, the first views are of the town itself: the castle, red sandstone and commanding, still guarding the narrow landward approach; the abbey, with its tower catching the light; and the pattern of medieval streets clustered tightly within the river loop. From above, Shrewsbury’s historic street plan is clear in a way that is hard to see from the ground.
Beyond the town, the countryside of Shropshire unfolds in all directions. To the south and west, fields and hedgerows stretch towards the border hills of Wales, with the ridges of the Long Mynd and Stiperstones sometimes visible on clear days. To the north and east, the land opens into gentler farmland, with villages, market towns, and church spires dotting the view.
Every flight is unique, shaped only by the wind. Some mornings you may drift slowly across the Severn, seeing its broad curves glint in the light. On other days the air may carry you further afield, towards the border hills or deeper into rural Shropshire. However it unfolds, a launch from Shrewsbury combines the intimacy of a medieval townscape with the wide horizons of one of England’s most beautiful counties.
Your Shrewsbury 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 Shrewsbury 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 Shropshire!
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 Shrewsbury 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 Shrewsbury, 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 Shrewsbury 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 Shrewsbury 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 Shrewsbury 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.