A Hot Air Balloon Ride From York

From the Gothic architecture of York Minster to the patchwork fields surrounding the city, the city of York is filled with timeless charm and historic tales at every turn. Imagine experiencing this enchanting city from a hot air balloon ride, where the landscape spreads out below in a stunning mix of history, architecture, and greenery.

Floating above York gives you a unique perspective on its rich heritage, iconic landmarks, and diverse scenery. Join us as we explore what you can expect on a hot air balloon ride over this beautiful city, from the breathtaking sights to the unforgettable moments that await.

Key Takeaways

• Breathtaking Views: Enjoy unique aerial perspectives of York's landmarks like York Minster, Clifford's Tower, and the River Ouse.

• Memorable Experience: Find out what our past fliers have to say. From friendly staff to fun preparation activities, every moment of the hot air balloon ride is enjoyable and offers a great way to create unforgettable memories.

• Explore More: Discover nearby launch sites in Leeds and Wetherby, and experience vibrant festivals like the York Balloon Fiesta and Doncaster Hot Air Balloon Festival.

From the peaceful heights of a hot air balloon, York's landscape spreads out below in a stunning mix of history, architecture, and greenery. As you float above, you’ll see some of the city's most famous sights from a whole new angle. York’s rich history, dating back to Roman times, is visible in its ancient walls, medieval buildings, and winding streets.

The diverse landscapes range from the bustling city centre, with its iconic landmarks, to the serene countryside and riverbanks that surround the city. This aerial view offers a unique perspective on York’s blend of historic charm and natural beauty, making a hot air balloon ride over York a truly unforgettable experience.

What You Could See from the Sky:

York Minster

This grand Gothic cathedral, built over 250 years starting in the 13th century, is a showstopper from the sky. Its spires and stained glass windows highlight centuries of religious history. You can even see the intricate roofline and buttresses that support this architectural marvel.

Clifford's Tower

Sitting proudly on its grassy hilll, this sturdy stone tower dates back to the 11th century. It’s a key piece of York’s medieval past and offers a glimpse into the city's turbulent history. Once part of York Castle, it has served as a royal mint and a prison over the centuries.

The River Ouse

The River Ouse winds through the heart of York and has been a vital trade route since Roman times. From above, you can see the boats gently sailing along the river, with people enjoying walks and picnics along its scenic banks.

Skeldergate Bridge

This elegant bridge, completed in 1881, crosses the River Ouse. It links York’s historic centre with its lively southern areas, reflecting the city’s blend of old and new. Its ironwork and design are a testament to Victorian engineering.

The Shambles

This historic street, with its timber-framed buildings dating back to the 14th century, looks like a quaint maze from above. It’s one of the best-preserved medieval streets in the world. Originally home to butchers, the overhanging buildings almost touch above the narrow lanes.

York City Walls

These ancient walls, originally built by the Romans and later expanded by the Normans, encircle the city. From above, you can trace their path and see the gates and towers that have stood for centuries. They are the longest medieval town walls in England, offering a continuous circuit around the city.

Rowntree Park

This green park by the river was opened in 1921 as a memorial to employees of Rowntree who died in World War I. From the air, its gardens and ponds create a lovely patchwork of greenery. The park also features a lake, play areas, and tennis courts, making it a local favourite for relaxation and recreation.

Museum Gardens

Home to the Yorkshire Museum and the ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey, these gardens are a blend of history and nature. The abbey ruins date back to the 11th century and offer a glimpse into York’s monastic past. The gardens also house several Roman artefacts and are a haven for local wildlife, making them a serene spot in the city.

"Absolutely AMAZING experience. This has to be one of the best experiences of my life… Dave and the York team were amazing and made packing the balloon away as much fun as the actual flight. I will be recommending this experience to everyone I know. Well done Team York, you made our day” - Gillian Gun

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or you just want to tick something extraordinary off your bucket list, a hot air balloon ride over York promises an unforgettable adventure through the Yorkshire skies. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff like Dave and the York team, who create an atmosphere of excitement, wonder and fun.

Here’s what you can expect:

Pre-Flight Preparation

Get involved in the fascinating process of inflating the balloon. The crew makes this interactive, ensuring you feel part of the experience from the start.

Take off

Experience the gentle ascent as the balloon lifts off, giving you a smooth and serene start to your journey.

Incredible Views

Enjoy panoramic views of York’s iconic landmarks, rolling countryside, and the River Ouse from a unique vantage point.

Tranquil Atmosphere

Relish the peacefulness of floating above the city, away from the hustle and bustle below.

Expert Guidance

Benefit from the expertise of experienced pilots who share insights about the landscape and the history of York.

Post-Flight Fun

Just like Gillian mentioned, packing the balloon away is made into a fun activity, making sure every moment is enjoyable.

Celebration

End your flight with a traditional champagne toast, celebrating a memorable adventure with your fellow passengers.

A hot air balloon ride over York isn’t just about seeing the sights; it’s about experiencing the magic of flight, the camaraderie with fellow adventurers, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. It’s no wonder it’s considered a top bucket list activity, offering a unique blend of thrill, tranquillity, and breathtaking beauty.

Our passengers rave about their hot air balloon experiences over York, sharing stories of breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.

Here’s what some of them had to say:

Amazing wish I was up there again right now!…

"We had to wait a while due to unsuitable weather conditions but when the time came it was totally worth the wait. Dave the pilot and his team were friendly and welcoming and soon had us all helping out to prepare the balloon for the flight. The take off was magical and floating peacefully over the city of York and surrounding countryside was just stunning." - H Moore

Worth the wait

“Worth the wait. Amazing early morning balloon flight over York. The York team are very professional and safe but also extremely friendly, a great team. All so well organised and would definitely do this again.” - Miss Vickers

Flight from York Race Course

“Amazing experience on the 30/09/2023 setting of from York Race Course. The flight over the centre of York was spectacular. Watching the deer leap across the field on the edge of the city, was just an added bonus. The landing was just as smooth as the take off. Can't put into words, how great the overall experience was!!!!!” - David Haslam

These testimonials reflect the magical and well-organised adventures our passengers enjoy, from the stunning aerial views to the friendly and professional team.

Call the Flight Line: Confirm your flight is going ahead by calling the flight line.

• AM & Day Flights: Call from 11pm the night before your flight.

• PM Flights (September to March): Call from 12 noon on the day of your flight.

• PM Flights (April to August): Call from 2pm on the day of your flight.

Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to meet the crew and participate in the pre-flight briefing.

Wear Appropriate Clothing: Wear warm and comfortable clothing. Layers are recommended, as the temperature can change when you’re up in the air. We also advise wearing clothes you don’t mind getting a little dirty, as you will have the opportunity to help inflate and deflate the balloon. Flat, sensible shoes, such as boots or trainers, are essential. A hat and sunglasses are also a good idea, as it can get quite warm near the burner, and the sun can be quite bright.

Bring a Camera: Capture the stunning views and unforgettable moments, but don't forget to enjoy the moment. Be conscious not to watch the whole experience through your phone camera.

Listen to the Crew: Pay attention to safety instructions and follow the crew's guidance.

Be Flexible: Bad weather can affect flight schedules, so be prepared for potential changes or delays.

Enjoy the Experience: Relax, take in the views, and enjoy creating unforgettable memories as you float above York.

If you're searching for "hot air balloon rides near me," you'll find several fantastic launch sites near York. Popular locations include the vibrant city of Leeds and the charming town of Wetherby. Each site offers a unique perspective of Yorkshire’s diverse scenery, from rolling hills and lush countryside to bustling urban landscapes.

Whether you’re looking to float over scenic villages or iconic city landmarks, these nearby launch sites have something special to offer. If you'd like to search further afield, check out our guide to hot air balloon rides in Yorkshire.

Hot air balloon festivals are vibrant events filled with colourful displays and thrilling activities, making them a perfect day out for all ages. Near York, you can experience the magic of the York Balloon Fiesta and the Doncaster Hot Air Balloon Festival.

These festivals feature mass balloon launches, where dozens of balloons take to the sky in a breathtaking spectacle. One of the highlights is the night glow performance, where balloons are illuminated against the night sky, creating a stunning visual display. With food stalls, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities, these festivals should be on your summer bucket list for an unforgettable experience.

Curious about what to expect on your hot air balloon adventure over York? We've compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you prepare and make the most of your experience. Here are the answers to some common queries from our passengers.

A hot air balloon ride over York is truly one of the best things to do in York. It offers a unique and breathtaking way to experience the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful landscapes. Whether you're admiring York Minster from above, floating over the serene River Ouse, or enjoying the friendly and professional service of the York team, every moment is magical.

As you plan your visit, remember to explore nearby launch sites and consider attending one of the exciting hot air balloon festivals.

So, add this memorable experience to your summer bucket list and discover why hot air ballooning is one of the best York experiences!