Enjoy Stunning Views Ballooning Near Ullswater
Ullswater is one of the most memorable sights passengers may see on a hot air balloon ride from Dalemain Estate. Long, narrow and glacial in shape, the lake lies among some of the most beautiful scenery in the North Lakes, with green fields at its northern end and the fells rising more dramatically along its shores.
From the ground, Ullswater is already impressive. From the air, its shape becomes clearer. The lake stretches for miles through the valley, catching the light in long silver-blue patches as the hills gather around it. Pooley Bridge sits at the northern end, close to where the River Eamont leaves the lake, while Howtown lies further down the eastern shore. On calm mornings or clear evenings, the whole scene can feel wonderfully still, with water, woodland and fellside layered together beneath the basket.
A balloon flight near Ullswater is never a fixed route, because the wind decides the direction of travel. Flights launching from Dalemain Estate may take in different views depending on the day’s conditions. Sometimes the experience is all about the nearer countryside: fields divided by stone walls, wooded lanes, scattered farms and the soft green sweep of the Eden Valley. On other days, the balloon may rise high enough for Ullswater to come into view, set between the surrounding hills like a ribbon of water.
The area also carries a strong literary association. William Wordsworth’s famous poem Daffodils was inspired by a spring walk with his sister Dorothy along the banks of Ullswater. It is easy to understand why the place stayed with him. The lake has a brightness that seems to shift with the weather, from soft and misty in the morning to clear and shining when the sun breaks through.
For passengers hoping to see the Lake District from a different angle, Ullswater is one of the great rewards of a Dalemain balloon flight. It brings together many of the things people imagine when they think of Cumbria: water, hills, farmland, old villages and sudden changes of light. Whether seen close and clear, or glimpsed in the distance between the fells, Ullswater gives the flight a distinctly Lake District feel.
Your Ullswater 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 near Ullswater 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 Cumbria!
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 near Ullswater 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 near Ullswater, 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 Ullswater 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 Ullswater 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 Ullswater 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.