Spotlight On Lancashire Hot Air Balloon Rides

Do you know someone in Lancashire who’s a true adventurer at heart? Maybe it’s even you. Perhaps you’ve spotted our big red balloons soaring from Chipping at the crack of dawn, or floating gracefully past Pendle Hill on a golden summer evening. Maybe you’ve always dreamt of flying above your own home, seeing your local town from a whole new angle. Or perhaps you want to surprise a loved one with something totally unforgettable this year.

Well, get ready, because we’re about to reveal all the best bits of ticking off this epic bucket list adventure. Join us as we glide into the sunset on a thrilling hot air balloon ride over the stunning skies of Lancashire!

Did you know that Lancashire is home to England’s tallest inland lighthouse? The Pharos Lighthouse in Fleetwood has guided ships safely to shore since 1840, standing as a testament to Lancashire’s rich maritime heritage. But there’s so much more to this county than its coastal history – its diverse landscapes make it a fantastic destination for hot air ballooning adventures.

Lancashire offers a mix of rolling hills, rugged moors, and picturesque villages, giving passengers a bird’s-eye view of one of England’s most fascinating regions. With its roots in the Industrial Revolution, Lancashire became a powerhouse for cotton production, earning the title of “the workshop of the world.”

While many of the iconic mills and factories still dot the landscape, they now sit alongside the county's natural beauty, from the Forest of Bowland (an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) to the serene waters of the Ribble Valley.
 

What makes ballooning in Lancashire truly exceptional is its location between three iconic national parks – the Forest of Bowland, the Lake District, and the Yorkshire Dales. This prime spot means that, depending on where the wind takes you, you could be treated to views of the Lake District’s dramatic fells, the peaceful valleys of Yorkshire, or the rolling beauty of the Bowland hills. Each flight offers a new perspective on these remarkable landscapes, giving you the rare opportunity to see these natural wonders from above.

Lancashire’s unique blend of history and nature adds even more magic to the experience. As you float over the Trough of Bowland or follow the winding Ribble Valley, you’ll spot everything from ancient castles to former industrial towns, reminders of the county’s deep historical roots. This diverse scenery, from rugged moors to rich agricultural land, makes every flight over Lancashire a journey through both time and nature.

Scenic Views

As you drift through the skies of Lancashire, the stunning countryside unfolds beneath you. From the winding River Lune to the rugged beauty of the Forest of Bowland, the landscape is dotted with historic towns, lush farmland, and rolling hills. If your balloon glides over a river or lake, you’ll witness the breathtaking sight of sunlight and clouds reflecting on the water’s surface, a truly magical moment. You may even spot farm animals or wildlife grazing peacefully in the fields below. The contrast between rural beauty and the historic architecture of Lancaster adds to the charm of the experience.

Local Attractions

Ballooning over Lancashire brings you close to some incredible landmarks. The Lancaster Canal, with its impressive 41-mile lock-free stretch, winds through the countryside, while Crook O’ Lune, famously captured by artist JMW Turner, showcases natural beauty at its finest. From certain vantage points, you may even spot Pendle Hill, known for its association with the famous Lancashire witches.

Seasonal Highlights

Lancashire’s scenery transforms with the seasons, making each balloon flight unique. In autumn, the crisp morning air often leaves the grass covered with a delicate frost, adding a mystical touch to the landscape. On cooler days, you might witness mist rising from the valleys, and as your balloon ascends through the fog, you’ll be treated to the stunning sight of sunlight piercing through, creating a vibrant and otherworldly view. In spring, fields burst into life with wildflowers, and in May, vast expanses of golden rapeseed fields add a striking splash of colour to the landscape.

Whether it’s the golden fields of summer or the rich reds and oranges of autumn, each season from March to October brings its own magic to your flight.

Lancashire is home to some truly unique launch sites, each offering its own slice of the county’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re soaring over winding rivers or ancient bridges, each location offers a memorable hot air balloon experience. Let’s explore the highlights of these launch sites:

Lancaster

Launching from one of the most picturesque spots in the North West, Crook O’ Lune is nestled alongside the scenic River Lune, offering spectacular views right from the start. This area has inspired countless artists and poets, including the legendary JMW Turner, who captured its beauty in his paintings.

As you drift along the winding path of the River Lune, you might also spot the city of Lancaster with its stunning historical landmarks, including Lancaster Castle and the grand Ashton Memorial in Williamson Park.

Beyond the city, the view opens up to the Forest of Bowland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with its rolling hills and sprawling woodlands. On particularly clear days, you can even catch sight of the distant Lake District fells. This launch site is truly a gateway to some of the North West’s most breathtaking and varied landscapes.

Fun Fact: The Lancaster Canal, which runs near the area, boasts the longest lock-free stretch of any manmade waterway in the country, with a 41-mile stretch weaving through the picturesque Lancashire countryside. It’s one of those sights that’s best appreciated from the skies!

Devil's Bridge (Kirkby Lonsdale)

This Kirkby Lonsdale launch site, set on the border of Lancashire and Cumbria, offers the perfect blend of historic charm and breathtaking natural beauty, making it a must-visit for any ballooning enthusiast.

Located beside the historic Devil’s Bridge, this charming launch spot is steeped in folklore dating back to the 12th or 13th century.

As you rise into the skies, you’ll drift over the picturesque landscapes of the South Lake District, with rolling hills and stunning views unfolding in every direction. The River Lune flows gracefully below, reflecting the sky and clouds, creating a mesmerising view from above.

On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, with its dramatic limestone cliffs and peaceful villages.

You'll also glide over the town of Kirkby Lonsdale, with its cobbled streets and historic landmarks like Ruskin’s View, an iconic panorama of the Lune Valley, once described by artist John Ruskin as “one of the loveliest scenes in England.”

Fun Fact: The folklore surrounding Devil’s Bridge is as captivating as the views. Legend has it that the devil himself built the bridge in exchange for the soul of the first living being to cross it – though thankfully, the local folk tricked him by sending a dog over instead! Today, it stands as one of the most photographed spots in the area.

With its blend of rivers, national parks, and charming towns, the Devil’s Bridge launch site offers a truly unforgettable hot air balloon experience.
 

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of soaring through the skies over Lancashire in a hot air balloon, and our passengers would agree! Whether it’s the awe-inspiring landscapes or the thrill of the adventure, flying with Virgin Balloon Flights leaves an impression that lasts a lifetime.

From first-time flyers to seasoned adventurers, our passengers share stories of unforgettable moments and breathtaking views. But don’t just take our word for it—here’s what some of our happy passengers have to say.

Glowing Reviews from Our Happy Customers

“Having waited for almost 5 years to fly due to covid and cancellations our 6th attempt didn't disappoint. From the initial meeting with pilot and ground crew, to the flight and post flight fizz, the experience was truly amazing. I want to do it again and again. Best experience ever.” — josiesmith09

“The balloon ride was great From start to finish, and we had a great pilot who kept us informed all the time.” — brianbhewitt

“From start to finish the whole experience was fantastic. The Balloon team were brilliant and very friendly. We enjoyed being involved in setting the balloon up. Once in the air, there was a wonderful feeling of stillness and calm. All in all a fabulous experience.” — pevito19

Real Experiences from Our Passengers

“Hello everyone - thought I'd share this pic with you all. I took this a few weeks back when I was at a meet in Lancaster. I saw this heart shadow of your lovely virgin balloon and thought it summed up the beautiful flying morning and the wonderful experience of flying 🙂 Soft landings”

“We went flew over Kirkby Lonsdale on Friday night - it was amazing - thank you!”

“Fantastic flight today with superb pilot Chris over Kirkby Lonsdale. AMAZING!!!”

“Amazing Virgin Balloon Flights this morning over the Lake District 🥰🌅. Our first ever one and waited almost 18 months for it. Stunning scenery at 3000ft and fly by of the bridge. Ended with some visitors from a nearby field 🐮😂. #virginballoon #hotairballoon #lakedistrict”

A Sky-High Proposal

For some couples, there’s no better place to pop the question than floating high above Lancashire’s stunning countryside. With serene skies, breathtaking views, and a sense of adventure, a hot air balloon proposal is pure magic. It’s a memory that will last a lifetime, making it the perfect setting for one of life’s biggest moments.

Many couples have shared their unique proposal stories from across the UK, and you can find inspiration from real-life sky-high proposals by visiting this collection of love stories.

Wherever you fly from in Lancashire, every hot air balloon ride offers stunning views and memorable moments. It’s more than just a ride—it’s a memory to cherish forever.

Once you’ve landed, Lancashire has even more to explore. From historic landmarks to charming countryside escapes, there’s plenty to fill your day after your flight. Let’s dive into the best things to do in Lancashire!

After an awe-inspiring hot air balloon flight, why not make a full day of exploring the hidden gems of Lancashire? Whether you’re flying at sunrise or sunset, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the county’s diverse offerings. From charming cafés for breakfast to stunning sights and cosy pubs for a relaxing evening, here’s how you can plan a perfect day trip around your balloon adventure.

Morning: Cosy Breakfasts & Coffee

For those catching an early morning flight, there’s nothing better than starting the day with a hearty breakfast or a warming coffee after your balloon adventure. Here are a few top-rated places to grab a bite:

Plato’s, Kirkby Lonsdale
Located in the heart of Kirkby Lonsdale, Plato’s offers a delightful menu of breakfast options, including everything from freshly baked pastries to a full English breakfast. Known for its cosy atmosphere and quality local ingredients, it’s the perfect post-flight spot to unwind with a coffee and a hearty meal. Highly rated for both its food and warm service, Plato's is a must-visit for anyone exploring the area.
Opens at 9:00 AM (Mon-Sat)

The Cornmill Café, Lancaster
This café, set within the Crook O’ Lune picnic site, offers traditional English breakfasts alongside scenic views of the surrounding countryside. It's a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy a well-earned coffee after a sunrise flight.
Opens at 10:00 AM (Mon-Fri), 9:00 AM (Sat)

Afternoon: Exploring Lancashire

Once you’ve had your breakfast, it’s time to explore some of Lancashire’s best sights. Whether you prefer historical landmarks or natural beauty, there’s plenty to see and do.

Lancaster Castle
Just a short distance from the Lancaster launch site, Lancaster Castle is a historic landmark that dates back almost 1,000 years. Take a guided tour of the castle to learn about its rich history, including its role in the Lancashire Witch Trials.

Ruskin's View, Kirkby Lonsdale
This breathtaking view of the Lune Valley, famously praised by the artist John Ruskin, offers one of the most picturesque spots in the area. A gentle walk along the river takes you to Devil’s Bridge, another must-see landmark in Kirkby Lonsdale.

Leighton Hall (National Trust)
If you're up for a short drive from Lancaster, Leighton Hall is an impressive stately home surrounded by beautiful gardens and woodland walks. It's a great spot to enjoy a leisurely afternoon stroll.

Evening: Local Pubs & Dining

After a day of adventure, wind down with a visit to one of Lancashire’s top-rated pubs or restaurants for a delicious meal and a relaxing evening.

The Sun Hotel & Bar, Lancaster
A local favourite, this pub serves up an excellent menu of locally sourced dishes and a wide selection of craft beers. It’s the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring.

The Highwayman Inn, Kirkby Lonsdale
This charming countryside pub offers a cosy setting and an impressive menu of seasonal dishes. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, it’s a great spot to enjoy a hearty meal after a sunset balloon flight.

With plenty to see and do, Lancashire offers the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation to complement your hot air balloon ride. Whether you're starting the day with a sunrise flight or ending it with a sunset adventure, there's no shortage of ways to make the most of your visit!

Lancashire hot air balloon rides offer a truly unforgettable experience, where breathtaking landscapes, historic landmarks, and stunning natural beauty come together. From soaring over the winding River Lune and spotting the Yorkshire Dales, to catching the sunrise over the Forest of Bowland, every flight is an adventure that will stay with you forever. It’s the perfect bucket list item – a moment etched in your memory for years to come.

Ready to make your dream flight a reality? Book your Lancashire hot air balloon ride today and start creating memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t forget to join our Big Red Balloon Club to see other passengers' stunning photos and stories of their own magical experiences.

We can’t wait to welcome you on board and share the beauty of the skies with you – let’s take life higher!