Spotlight On Essex Hot Air Balloon Rides

Looking for the ultimate adventure in Essex? Whether it’s for you or someone with a thirst for excitement, a hot air balloon ride in Essex is the experience dreams are made of. Picture this: our iconic big red balloons lifting off from the picturesque countryside near Chelmsford at sunrise, or gently drifting over the lush green landscapes around Colchester as the sun sets on a perfect summer evening. Fancy spotting your hometown from a bird’s-eye view or surprising a loved one with a truly magical gift they’ll never forget?

Hot air balloon rides in Essex UK offer a breathtaking way to explore the county like never before. From the thrill of takeoff to the serene glide through the clouds, every moment is unforgettable. So why wait? Join us and make memories together as we soar over Essex’s stunning skies, ticking off that bucket list in style!

Did you know that Essex is home to one of England's oldest recorded towns, Colchester? This historic gem dates back to Roman times and boasts a wealth of fascinating sites, including the remains of a Roman wall and the stunning Colchester Castle, built on the foundations of a Roman temple. Essex’s rich history doesn’t end there; the county is also known for its picturesque villages, mediaeval churches, and grand country estates.

The county's diverse landscape ranges from the rolling hills of the countryside to ancient woodlands and beautiful river valleys. Essex is also renowned for its unique salt marshes and expansive estuaries, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
 

When you take to the skies in a hot air balloon over Essex, you’ll witness these historical and natural wonders from a breathtaking vantage point. Imagine floating peacefully above the sprawling Hylands House and Estate near Chelmsford, or admiring the intricate patchwork of fields and forests that stretch out as far as the eye can see. Each flight offers a new perspective on Essex’s beauty and heritage, ensuring a memorable adventure in this enchanting county.

Scenic Views

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Essex from above, with its rich tapestry of landscapes and landmarks. As you take off from one of our launch sites, such as Feering or Chelmsford, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the county’s diverse scenery. Float above the historic town of Colchester, with its ancient castle and Roman walls, or drift over the tranquil countryside surrounding Brentwood and Gosfield. The sprawling Hylands House and Estate near Chelmsford offer a stunning vista, while the picturesque villages and patchwork fields of Essex create a mesmerising sight from the skies.

As you soar, you might spot deer gracefully bounding through the woodlands, or see sheep and horses grazing in the pastures. Even from high up, the sight of these animals adds a magical touch to your flight, making the landscape come alive beneath you.

Seasonal Highlights

Essex’s scenery is particularly stunning in autumn, thanks to its diverse landscapes. The county’s numerous woodlands, such as Epping Forest and Hainault Forest, transform into a vibrant tapestry of red, orange, and gold, offering a picturesque backdrop for your flight. Autumn mornings often bring mist that blankets the fields and valleys, adding a magical touch to the experience. Spring is also enchanting, with blooming flowers and lush greenery, especially around the county’s many gardens and estates. Summer offers clear skies and warm weather, perfect for enjoying the full expanse of Essex’s beautiful countryside. Each season provides a unique and captivating experience, ensuring no two flights are ever the same.
 

Essex, with its stunning landscapes and historic towns, is a popular location for our Essex hot air balloon rides. We have 5 launch sites that cover the area and all offer fabulous views of this southeastern county. Its proximity to the capital also makes it a good choice for those living in London and looking to take in the gorgeous scenery the UK has to offer.

Feering (Essex)

Begin your airborne adventure from the picturesque Prested Hall launch site in Feering. As you ascend, the stunning Essex countryside unfolds beneath you. On a clear day, with the right wind, you might even spot the Blackwater Estuary National Nature Reserve in the far distance.

Fun fact: Prested Hall is a magnificent 16th-century manor set on 75 acres of beautiful grounds, making it a perfect backdrop for your ballooning adventure.

Chelmsford

Experience an unforgettable sky-high adventure from our Chelmsford hot air balloon launch site. From here, enjoy glorious views in every direction. Look out for the picturesque Hanningfield Reservoir to the south and the historic Hylands House to the west. Another landmark to spot is the 15th-century Tudor Manor House with its own moat, picturesque gardens, lakes, and over 100 acres of grass and woodland.

Fun fact: Newland Hall, our Chelmsford launch site, is a 15th-century Tudor Manor House, adding a historical touch to your flight experience.
 

Brentwood

Soar over the beautiful country parks and historic sites of Brentwood. Drift over stunning landscapes, including Ingatestone Hall, a 16th-century mansion, and admire the scenery that inspired artist John Constable. Brentwood is one of the closest launch sites to London, offering a unique perspective on the Home Counties.

Fun fact: Brentwood is also home to the hit ITV show "The Only Way is Essex" (TOWIE), showcasing Essex’s modern vibe with bustling centres and chic café culture.

Gosfield

Launch from the enchanting village of Gosfield, rich in history and natural beauty. Gaze down upon Gosfield Hall, a Georgian mansion that once hosted French royalty. The sprawling estate and serene Gosfield Lake create a breathtaking view. To the north, you might catch a glimpse of the ancient town of Halstead, and to the west, the historic city of Colchester may come into view.

Fun fact: Gosfield Hall is a magnificent Georgian mansion that has hosted French royalty, adding a regal touch to your balloon flight.
 

Colchester

Take off from one of Britain’s oldest Roman towns, Colchester, and embark on a hot air balloon adventure like no other. Spot the historic Colchester Castle and the Roman Circus Centre, the only one known in Britain. Enjoy breathtaking views across this stunning part of the southeast as you drift with the wind.

Fun fact: Colchester is reported to be the oldest Roman town in Britain, offering a rich tapestry of history and sights from above.

By launching from one of these picturesque sites, you'll experience Essex from a unique perspective, taking in the beauty and history of this remarkable county.
 

Flying with Virgin in Essex promises an unforgettable experience filled with stunning views, exceptional service, and lasting memories. But don’t just take our word for it—hear from those who have soared above Essex with us and see their incredible photos and quotes.

Glowing Reviews from Our Happy Customers

Here are a few testimonials from past customers who couldn’t stop raving about their Virgin Balloon Flights in Essex:

"Fantastic from start to finish. Team very welcoming and friendly. After a 2 year wait and 12 attempts we finally took to the sky and - wow! What an experience that was worth waiting for. Hearing the cows mooing in the field was just the best! Would highly recommend to anyone." – bevtown1

"A wonderful morning from start to finish. Watching the sun appear while the balloon was inflating increased the sense of excitement. Beautiful views across the fields towards the estuary as we gently drifted over the countryside. A soft landing ended a fabulous flight." – sue.thornett4

"An amazing experience! Great pilot, who inspired great camaraderie among the passengers and was very knowledgeable about the area we flew over. Very efficient backup team too." – Jeanhockley

Real Experiences from Our Passengers

We love seeing our passengers’ photos and quotes from their flights. Here are some highlights shared by those who’ve soared above Essex with us:
 

"Late 30th birthday present from my dad...a balloon flight over Essex on a beautiful day. Not too bad 😊 #FloatFace"

“#floatface This time last week, in Essex! Well worth the early start.”

“Fantastic balloon flight on 16th May over Essex with my sister for my 40th Birthday - thank you Virgin!#FloatFace”

“Had a wonderful balloon ride this morning over the beautiful landscape of Essex, it was amazing, wow, wow, wow, it's up there with one of the best things I have done, thank you Tim and the ground crew you were fab xxx”

Flying with Virgin in Essex offers not only breathtaking views but also a top-notch experience that leaves our passengers raving. Join us for a journey through the skies and create your own magical memories.

Planning a day trip around your hot air balloon ride in Essex is a wonderful way to explore the county’s diverse attractions. Whether you're flying at sunrise or sunset, there's plenty to see and do to make your visit truly memorable. Here are some top recommendations for places to eat and visit, all highly rated and popular among locals and tourists alike.

Morning Itinerary

Cafe No.11, Rayleigh: Known for its outstanding food and amazing service, Cafe No.11 offers a cosy spot to enjoy a hearty breakfast for your adventure.

Opening times:

• Monday-Sunday: 9 am

Petals Tearoom, Great Yeldham: A charming tearoom offering delightful breakfasts and a perfect setting to relax and refuel.

Opening times:

• Monday-Sunday: 10 pm

Maxwells, Southend-on-Sea: Famous for its fantastic sandwiches and friendly atmosphere, Maxwells is a great place to start your day.

Opening times:

• Tuesday-Saturday: 9:30 am

Afternoon Itinerary

Hylands House and Estate, Chelmsford
Explore this beautiful 18th-century country house set within 574 acres of historic parkland. The estate offers gardens, woodlands, and lakes to enjoy a leisurely afternoon stroll.
 

RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Chelmsford
A stunning garden managed by the Royal Horticultural Society. It features a variety of themed gardens, including the Hilltop Garden and the Dry Garden, perfect for a relaxing visit before your flight.

Colchester Castle Museum
Step back in time and explore the history of Britain's oldest recorded town. The museum offers interactive displays and fascinating exhibits about Roman Colchester.
 

Promenade Park, Maldon
Ideal for a relaxed afternoon, this park offers riverside walks, ornamental lakes, and plenty of green spaces to unwind.

Paper Mill Lock Tearooms, Little Baddow
Enjoy a peaceful afternoon tea by the canal. This charming tearoom offers a lovely selection of cakes and sandwiches in a picturesque setting.

Pubs and Fine Dining

Haywards, Epping
A fine dining restaurant offering contemporary British cuisine. Highly recommended for a special meal.

The New London Restaurant & Lounge, Chelmsford
Renowned for its excellent European cuisine and elegant atmosphere.

The Magic Mushroom, Billericay
A popular spot offering a mix of British and European dishes in a stylish setting.

The Anchor, Danbury
This charming country inn is perfect for a traditional British pub experience, complete with a beautiful garden and warm atmosphere.

Talbooth Restaurant, Dedham
A renowned fine dining restaurant located on the River Stour, offering a beautiful setting and exquisite dishes.

No matter how you choose to spend your day, Essex offers an array of activities and sights to complement your hot air balloon adventure.
 

An Essex hot air balloon ride offers an unparalleled experience with stunning views, rich history, and diverse landscapes. From the picturesque countryside to historic landmarks, each flight provides a unique perspective of this beautiful county. A hot air balloon ride over Essex is a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list experience that will leave an indelible mark on your memory.

Ready to embark on your own Essex adventure? 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 serenity of a hot air balloon ride over Essex. From the moment you lift off to the gentle landing, every second is filled with wonder and excitement. Most passengers are amazed by the entire experience, finding it indescribably fun and exceeding their expectations, especially with the feel of the breeze on their face high above the ground. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard and help you create memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s make your next adventure truly sky-high!