Enjoy Stunning Views Ballooning Over Windermere
Windermere is the best-known lake in the Lake District: a long, shining stretch of water running between wooded slopes, quiet bays, and some of Cumbria’s most loved villages. Although the launch point sits just to the south-west of the lake, within the Graythwaite Estate, it feels naturally tied to Windermere. From the lawns of Graythwaite Hall, balloons rise from a peaceful country-house setting close to the southern reaches of the water.
This is one of the great attractions of flying here. A Windermere balloon flight does not begin from a busy lakeside promenade, but from a more private and rural corner of the landscape. Graythwaite Hall is surrounded by gardens, parkland, woodland, and old stone boundaries, giving the start of the flight a quiet, almost hidden quality. There is time to watch the balloon take shape on the grass before the basket lifts gently above the estate and the wider Lake District begins to open out.
As the balloon climbs, Windermere may appear as a silver-blue ribbon below, stretching northwards towards Bowness, Ambleside, and the central fells. Depending on the wind, the flight may drift towards the lake itself, across wooded slopes and scattered farms, or away over the softer countryside of south Cumbria. To the west lie Grizedale Forest and the higher ground beyond; to the east, the landscape falls towards the Lyth Valley and the approaches to Kendal.
Every flight is shaped by the breeze, so no two Windermere balloon rides follow the same path. Some journeys bring wide lake views, with boats and steamers moving far below; others reveal the quieter patterns of fields, tarns, lanes, and villages. However the route unfolds, launching from Graythwaite Hall gives you the sense of rising from one of Windermere’s quieter thresholds — close to the water, rich in scenery, and surrounded by the kind of landscape that makes the Lake District feel timeless.
Your Windermere 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 Lake Windermere 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 Lake Windermere 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 Lake Windermere, 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 launch site near Lake Windermere 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 launch site grounds near Lake Windermere. Experience a true sensation of getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Enjoy the Views
Take in spectacular scenery surrounding Lake Windermere 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.