Enjoy Stunning Views Ballooning Over Stanford Hall
Hot air balloon flights from Stanford Hall lift off within the parkland of one of Leicestershire’s most impressive country estates. The Hall stands close to the River Avon, surrounded by broad lawns and mature trees that provide a memorable setting for take-off. Stanford Hall also has an unusual place in aviation history: the 19th-century inventor Percy Pilcher tested his flying machines here and came close to achieving powered flight before the Wright brothers.
As the balloon climbs, the estate opens out below. The house, sweeping grounds and belts of woodland form a striking pattern around the river as it curves away to the east. Beyond the parkland, nearby villages come into view, with church spires rising above the fields. In gentle winds, the flight may trace part of the Avon, passing over waterside meadows and reservoirs that catch the morning or evening light.
Greater height reveals a much broader landscape. Northamptonshire farmland stretches southwards, while to the west the view may reach Rugby and the Warwickshire hills beyond. Other country houses are scattered through the surrounding countryside, including Kelmarsh Hall and Kilworth House, whose formal gardens and long, tree-lined approaches are particularly distinctive from the air.
The flight brings together the heritage of Stanford Hall and the peaceful sensation of travelling with the breeze. In the quiet pauses between bursts from the burner, there is time to notice the smaller features below: hedgerows dividing the fields, winding lanes, village greens and perhaps even a cricket match in progress.
No two flights from Stanford Hall follow exactly the same route. One breeze may carry the balloon along the Avon meadows, while another leads towards the neighbouring counties. Wherever the wind takes you, the unhurried pace leaves plenty of time to enjoy both the far-reaching panorama and the details of the countryside below.
Your Stanford Hall 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 from Stanford Hall 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 Leicestershire!
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 countryside surrounding Stanford Hall 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 Stanford Hall, 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 Stanford Hall 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 Stanford Hall 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 Stanford Hall 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.