Enjoy Stunning Views Ballooning Over Welwyn Garden City
Welwyn Garden City is one of England’s most distinctive towns, built in the 1920s as a planned garden city with broad avenues, green spaces and neo-Georgian architecture. Set on the edge of open Hertfordshire countryside yet close to London, it’s a natural base for balloon flights. The nearest launch site is at Hatfield House, just a few minutes away, where balloons lift from the historic parkland for journeys across the county and beyond.
Take-off here is unhurried, the basket rising above the trees and lawns of the estate before the view begins to open. Depending on the breeze, the balloon may drift south far enough that the outline of London appears on the horizon, or turn north towards the patchwork fields and villages that surround Welwyn Garden City itself.
To the west, the tower of St Albans Cathedral often shows above the rooftops, while to the east the waterways of the Lea Valley catch the light. Other days the balloon carries towards the ridges of the Chiltern Hills, their commons and woodland marking the edge of the county.
Every flight here is different. Some journeys keep you low, close enough to follow lanes, hedgerows and church towers; others climb high, where several counties can be seen at once. The pace is always calm, shaped only by the wind, and there’s time to take in both familiar landmarks and new discoveries.
For those in Welwyn Garden City, a balloon ride from Hatfield House offers the perfect mix of convenience and adventure — a historic launch site, a green and spacious town nearby, and the chance to see Hertfordshire from a whole new perspective.
Your Welwyn Garden City 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 Welwyn Garden City 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 Hertfordshire!
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 Welwyn Garden City 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 Welwyn Garden City, 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 Welwyn Garden City 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 Welwyn Garden City 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 Welwyn Garden City 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.