Spotlight On Cambridgeshire Hot Air Balloon Rides

Do you know someone in Cambridgeshire who is a true adventurer at heart? It might even be you. Maybe you've spotted our big red balloons taking off from Cambridge at the crack of dawn, or drifting past the historic colleges and serene River Cam on a calm summer's evening. Maybe you've always dreamt of flying over your own home and seeing your local town from a unique perspective. Perhaps it's something a loved one has always wanted to do, and you want to treat them to something totally out of this world this year.

We're here to tell you all the best bits about checking off this unforgettable bucket list item, so join us as we glide peacefully into the sunset on a hot air balloon experience over the skies of Cambridgeshire.

Imagine soaring over the iconic University of Cambridge, with its stunning Gothic architecture and beautifully manicured lawns. You'll see landmarks like King's College Chapel and the picturesque Backs. Beyond Cambridge, marvel at Ely Cathedral rising from the fenlands, known as the "Ship of the Fens," and the scenic Wimpole Estate, a National Trust property with a grand mansion and landscaped gardens. The waterways, like the Great Ouse River, add to the county's rural charm, providing idyllic scenes of British countryside life.

Did you know that Cambridgeshire is home to one of the oldest universities in the world? Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge has shaped the history and culture of the county for centuries. Beyond academia, Cambridgeshire boasts a wealth of historical sites and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a hot air balloon adventure.

From above, you can marvel at the stunning architecture of King's College Chapel, a masterpiece of Gothic design, and the lush greenery of the Backs. The county is also known for Ely Cathedral, an impressive structure dating back to 1083, often referred to as the "Ship of the Fens" due to its prominent silhouette rising from the flat fenland landscape.

The scenic beauty of Cambridgeshire is not to be underestimated. The expansive Wimpole Estate, managed by the National Trust, features a grand mansion, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a working farm. The Great Ouse River winds its way through the county, providing idyllic views of the British countryside, perfect for a tranquil hot air balloon ride.

Embark on a hot air balloon adventure over Cambridgeshire to experience the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty from a unique vantage point. Each flight offers a new perspective on this remarkable county, ensuring a memorable experience for all who take to the skies.

Scenic Views

From the basket of our hot air balloon, the diverse and beautiful landscape of Cambridgeshire unfolds beneath you. Launching from sites such as Little Gransden and Peterborough, you'll be treated to stunning views of the county's iconic landmarks and natural beauty. As you ascend, look out for the majestic King's College Chapel in Cambridge and the serene waters of the River Cam winding through the historic city. To the north, the impressive Ely Cathedral stands tall, its unique octagonal tower visible from miles around.

The countryside offers a patchwork of fields, quaint villages, and winding rivers. In the distance, you might catch sight of the sprawling Wimpole Estate with its grand mansion and lush gardens. The fenlands, with their flat, expansive vistas, provide a stark yet beautiful contrast to the more hilly regions of the county. Each direction offers a new and breathtaking perspective on this historic and picturesque region.

Seasonal Highlights

Cambridgeshire is particularly enchanting in autumn when the woodlands turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. The county's flat fenlands often blanket in morning mist, adding a magical touch to your flight. Spring is equally delightful, with blooming flowers and lush greenery, especially around gardens and estates like the Wimpole Estate. Summer offers clear skies and warm weather, perfect for enjoying the expansive views of the countryside.

Regardless of the season, keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, sheep, and horses grazing in the fields below. The height of the balloon sometimes allows you to float above the clouds, providing a surreal and breathtaking experience. No matter the season, a hot air balloon flight over Cambridgeshire promises an unforgettable adventure, showcasing the county's rich tapestry of landscapes and landmarks.

Cambridgeshire offers three fantastic launch sites for hot air balloon rides, each providing unique and stunning views of the county's rich landscapes and historic landmarks. Whether you're floating above the iconic spires of Cambridge, the picturesque meadows of Peterborough, or the charming market town of Huntingdon, these flights promise an unforgettable adventure.

Cambridge (Little Gransden)

Adventure awaits when you take to the skies for an unforgettable Cambridge hot air balloon ride. Launching from the heart of the historic city, your journey will offer unparalleled views of iconic landmarks. Depending on which direction the wind takes your adventure, see if you can spot King's College Chapel, with its magnificent Gothic architecture, and the expansive grounds of Cambridge University Library. The Fitzwilliam Museum, with its dramatic facade and extensive art collections, may also come into view. Whether you drift over the city's ancient colleges or the rolling countryside that surrounds it, every angle provides a 360-degree panorama that's truly spectacular.

Fun Fact: Cambridge University is over 800 years old and has produced more Nobel Prize winners than any other institution in the world.

Peterborough

Our spectacular Peterborough hot air balloon rides launch from Ferry Meadows, at the heart of the beautiful Nene Park. Hop on board our iconic big red balloon for the experience of a lifetime, as you travel wherever the wind takes you over some of the UK’s most stunning landscapes. Get your camera ready or simply relax and take in the 360-degree panorama of picturesque lakes, meadows, and woodlands, with the city skyline to the east. You might even spot one of the miniature steam trains puffing along the Ferry Meadows Railway as you launch. Surrounded by gorgeous natural habitats and patchwork fields, nothing compares to the wondrous feeling of a Peterborough hot air balloon ride.

Fun Fact: Ferry Meadows is part of Nene Park, a 1,725-acre country park created in 1978 to provide recreational space for the residents of Peterborough.

Huntingdon

Whichever way the wind takes you, an unforgettable balloon ride from our Huntingdon Racecourse launch site will leave you on cloud nine. Keep an eye out for the pretty market town of Huntingdon itself, just a couple of miles to the west and set right in the heart of the stunning Cambridgeshire countryside. The waterways of Godmanchester may also come into view, along with some of the largest water meadows in the UK. To the east lies miles upon miles of unspoilt green countryside, with a dramatic aerial view of Grafham Water to the south east if you drift in that direction. On a clear day, you may even see as far as The Fens and Ely Cathedral to the north west. A Huntingdon hot air balloon ride is the perfect way to appreciate the beautiful South East of England from the air, with memories to talk about for years to come.

Fun Fact: Huntingdon was once home to Samuel Pepys, the famous diarist whose writings provide a detailed account of life in the 17th century.

Flying with Virgin in Cambridgeshire offers an unforgettable experience, combining breathtaking views, historical landmarks, and a sense of adventure. But don’t just take our word for it—hear from our passengers who have taken to the skies and lived to tell the tale.

Our glowing reviews highlight the magic of drifting over the scenic Cambridgeshire countryside, capturing moments that last a lifetime. From the excitement of takeoff to the serene beauty of floating above iconic landmarks, our passengers’ stories are filled with wonder and joy.

Glowing Reviews from Our Happy Customers

"Thoroughly enjoyed the whole evening, the ride itself was everything I hoped it would be but the friendliness, welcoming, and all over pleasant crew team made it an even better experience. Gary our pilot was not just great at the job but also created lots of laughter." – sam_otterspocket

"Everything was just perfect thank you. Felt extremely safe with pilot who was friendly, professional, educational & all round great guy. The ground staff were amazing & work so very hard. Great experience & great fun - everyone should try it!" – draytonlane

“The feeling of floating in complete peace, even though from 1000 feet up you could hear a dog barking.” – mikemayn59

Real Experiences from Our Passengers

"Such an amazing experience, I was on a high all day! We flew with Peter, Tim, Keith & Matthew who were all fantastic from the moment we arrived til the moment we left! Thank you."

“Did ours end of August in Peterborough, it was our 2nd attempt which was great. Our Pilot Rebecca Cains and her team were superb it really was the most amazing experience.”

"The feeling of floating in complete peace, even though from 1000 feet up you could hear a dog barking."

A Sky-High Proposal

There’s something truly magical about a proposal in the skies. Over the years, several of our passengers have chosen to pop the question while floating above the picturesque Cambridgeshire landscape, with the golden hues of the sunset providing the perfect backdrop. These romantic moments captured during the flight remind us that a hot air balloon ride with Virgin isn’t just an adventure—it’s a memory that lasts a lifetime.

From breathtaking views to unforgettable proposals, a hot air balloon ride with Virgin in Cambridgeshire offers an experience that stays with you forever. Each moment in the sky is unique, filled with wonder and joy. Ready to continue the adventure? Let’s explore the best things to do in Cambridgeshire before or after your flight.

Cambridgeshire is brimming with attractions and activities to make your hot air balloon adventure even more memorable. Whether you're taking a sunrise flight and looking for a breakfast spot or ending your day with a sunset flight, here are some highly recommended places to visit and dine in around the launch sites.

Morning Itinerary

Fitzbillies, Cambridge: Start your day at Fitzbillies, a Cambridge institution known for its legendary Chelsea buns and hearty breakfasts. With its historic charm and delicious menu, it's the perfect place to fuel up before your flight.
Opening times:

• Monday to Friday: 8 am

• Saturday and Sunday: 9 am

The Old Bridge Hotel, Huntingdon: For those near Huntingdon, The Old Bridge Hotel offers a delightful breakfast menu in a beautiful setting by the River Great Ouse. It's an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a meal before your hot air balloon adventure.
Opening times:

• Monday to Friday: 7 am -10 am

• Saturday and Sunday: 8 am - 10 am

Lakeside Kitchen & Bar, Peterborough: Located in the heart of Nene Park, Lakeside Kitchen & Bar offers a delicious breakfast menu with serene views of the lake. It's the perfect place to start your day before taking to the skies.
Opening times:

• Monday to Friday: 9 am

• Saturday and Sunday: 8:30 am

Afternoon Itinerary

Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge: After your flight, immerse yourself in art and antiquities at the Fitzwilliam Museum. With collections spanning centuries and cultures, it's a cultural treasure trove in the heart of Cambridge.

Nene Park, Peterborough: Spend a relaxing afternoon exploring Nene Park's beautiful landscapes. Take a leisurely walk around the lakes, enjoy a boat ride, or simply bask in the natural beauty of this expansive park.

Houghton Mill (National Trust), Huntingdon: Visit Houghton Mill, a working watermill on the River Great Ouse. Enjoy a riverside walk, explore the mill, and perhaps even sample some freshly baked goods from the mill’s own flour.

Pubs and Fine Dining

Midsummer House, Cambridge: For a fine dining experience, Midsummer House in Cambridge is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite dishes crafted from the finest local ingredients.

The Crown Inn, Broughton: A charming countryside pub near Huntingdon, The Crown Inn offers a delightful menu featuring locally sourced produce. It's perfect for a post-flight lunch or dinner.

The Fitzwilliam Arms, Marholm: Close to Peterborough, The Fitzwilliam Arms provides a cosy pub atmosphere with a menu full of traditional British dishes and locally brewed ales.

Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast to start your day or a fine dining experience to cap off your adventure, Cambridgeshire has something for everyone. Enjoy exploring the best of what this historic county has to offer before or after your hot air balloon ride.

Flying over Cambridgeshire in a hot air balloon is an unforgettable bucket list experience that combines breathtaking views, rich history, and serene beauty. From the iconic spires of Cambridge and the tranquil waters of the River Cam to the stunning landscapes of Peterborough and the charming market town of Huntingdon, each flight offers a unique and captivating adventure.

Ready to create memories that will last a lifetime? Book your flight with Virgin Balloon Flights today and join our Facebook Group to see the amazing experiences shared by fellow passengers.

There’s nothing quite like the thrill and tranquillity of a hot air balloon ride over Cambridgeshire. From the moment you lift off to the gentle landing, every second is filled with wonder and excitement. Most passengers find the experience awe-inspiring and beyond their expectations, particularly the sensation of the breeze on your face high above the ground. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard and help you create memories that will stay with you forever. Let’s make your next adventure truly sky-high!