Spotlight On Surrey & Hampshire Hot Air Balloon Rides

Do you know someone in Surrey or Hampshire with an adventurous spirit? It could be you. Perhaps you’ve seen our big red balloons lifting off from Farnham at dawn, or gently floating past the majestic South Downs on a warm summer’s evening. Have you ever dreamed of soaring above your own home, taking in a bird’s eye view of your local town? Maybe there’s someone special who’s always wanted to experience something truly extraordinary, and you’re ready to make that dream come true this year.

We’re here to share all the reasons why this unforgettable bucket list adventure is a must-do. So, come along with us and glide into the sunset on a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the stunning skies of Surrey & Hampshire.

Did you know that Hampshire is home to England’s ancient capital, Winchester, a city steeped in history, and once the seat of Alfred the Great? Or that Surrey’s Guildford Cathedral was the haunting backdrop for scenes in the classic 1976 horror film The Omen? Surrey and Hampshire are two counties rich in both history and natural beauty, offering a diverse landscape that’s nothing short of spectacular.

In Surrey, you’ll find the stunning North Downs, a stretch of chalk hills that have inspired poets and painters for centuries. These rolling landscapes are dotted with historic villages and grand estates, creating a picturesque patchwork that’s even more breathtaking from the sky. Hampshire, on the other hand, is renowned for its lush woodlands and ancient forests, including parts of the legendary New Forest, a royal hunting ground established by William the Conqueror. This region also boasts connections to literary greats, such as Jane Austen, who spent much of her life in Hampshire, drawing inspiration from the tranquil countryside around her.

When you soar above these counties in a hot air balloon, you’re not just taking in the scenery; you’re floating through centuries of history and culture. Whether it’s the sight of Guildford’s historic landmarks or the serene beauty of Hampshire’s countryside, a balloon ride here offers a unique perspective on two of England’s most captivating counties.

Scenic Views

Soaring above Surrey and Hampshire offers a visual feast of some of England’s most charming landscapes. As you gently rise from Guildford, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the North Downs, with its patchwork of fields, ancient woodlands, and historic villages. Guildford Cathedral’s towering spire might catch your eye, along with the remnants of William the Conqueror’s castle, hinting at the rich history embedded in the landscape. On exceptionally clear days, you might even glimpse the distant urban sprawl of London or the South Coast’s shimmering coastline.

In Hampshire, launching from Alton, your flight may take you over the lush expanses of the New Forest National Park, revealing a stunning panorama that stretches as far as Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight. Look out for the majestic Winchester Cathedral, standing proudly in the county town, or the quaint thatched cottages that dot the surrounding countryside. Whichever direction the wind guides you, each flight promises unforgettable vistas.

Seasonal Highlights

In Surrey and Hampshire, the landscapes are particularly stunning in autumn, when the countryside is painted in warm hues of red, orange, and gold. The South Downs and New Forest National Park are especially beautiful during this season, offering a vibrant contrast to the often clear blue skies.

If your hot air balloon drifts over rivers or lakes, the sunlight reflecting off the water, coupled with the autumn colours, creates an incredibly picturesque scene. This mesmerising view, where the clouds and sky are mirrored on the water's surface, adds an extra layer of magic to your flight. Each season in Surrey and Hampshire brings its own charm, but there's something truly enchanting about the autumn skies.

Guildford (Surrey)

Launch into a sky-high adventure from Guildford, one of Surrey’s most picturesque locations. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of rolling landscapes, ancient woodlands, and charming villages. Keep an eye out for iconic landmarks such as Guildford Cathedral, the Guildhall, and the ruins of William the Conqueror's castle. Depending on the wind direction, you might even catch a glimpse of the distant London skyline or the sparkling waters of the South Coast.

Imagine the thrill as your hot air balloon drifts gently over the Surrey countryside, with the wind guiding your journey. On rare occasions, when the wind blows just right—from the southwest to the northeast—you might find yourself landing at Dunsfold Aerodrome, right alongside some of the iconic British Airways aircraft. It’s an extraordinary experience to touch down next to these massive planes, offering a unique perspective of both aviation worlds. Although such landings are infrequent, happening just a few times each season, they add an extra layer of excitement to your flight, making an already unforgettable adventure even more extraordinary.

Fun Fact: Several scenes from the 1976 horror classic The Omen were filmed in Surrey, with Guildford Cathedral being one of the most notable locations.

Alton (Hampshire)

Soar above the beautiful countryside of Hampshire from our launch site at Anstey Park in Alton. This flight offers panoramic views of one of England’s most charming counties. As you glide through the air, take in the sights of the New Forest National Park, the Isle of Wight, and the historic city of Winchester with its magnificent Gothic cathedral.

Fun Fact: Chawton House, visible on your Alton balloon ride, was once owned by Jane Austen’s brother. The nearby cottage where Austen lived is now the Jane Austen’s House Museum, celebrating the life and work of one of England’s greatest authors.

Whichever launch site you choose, a hot air balloon ride over Surrey or Hampshire promises a journey filled with stunning scenery, rich history, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're drifting over Surrey’s rolling hills or Hampshire’s lush countryside, every flight is a chance to see these beautiful counties from a unique and breathtaking perspective.

Experiencing a hot air balloon ride with Virgin in Surrey and Hampshire is nothing short of magical. Each flight offers a unique blend of adventure, breathtaking views, and the unmatched tranquillity of floating above the countryside. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned balloonist, our passengers continually share stories of how these flights exceeded their expectations—from the stunning landscapes below to the camaraderie on board.

Glowing Reviews from Our Happy Customers

"It’s hard to put this experience into words as it was beyond perfect! Chris and the team were amazing and made the whole experience fantastic! We got to help set the balloon up before the flight and pack it away afterwards, it was great to be part of the whole experience. The flight itself was breathtaking and Chris was the perfect pilot! I cannot recommend this highly enough!" — michellefolder89

"From start to finish the whole experience was perfect. All of the flight team were so friendly and informative. We felt involved with the process. I have highly recommended it to all of my friends and family." — dcdcdeb

“With some help of the sat nav we found the field at 5am. Received a warm welcome and were soon chatting. We then climbed into the vehicles and drove to our launch field. Fascinating seeing the balloon set up, with some help from us too. The crew work so quickly and the balloon was ready for us to climb in. Not very elegantly I was soon very cosy and comfortable in my compartment. The views and how far we could see was astounding but what I didn’t anticipate was how relaxing it is flying in a balloon. Landing, the bit I was most anxious about was gentle too. Then we helped to pack it all away. That was fun and the glass of bubbly was a perfect way to end. Our pictures taken in the air and videos are brilliant too. I would fly away every weekend if I could.” — sarah.corbett262

"Well organised from start to finish, we had a super day with sunny weather and calm winds. The team of Ed and Chris was outstanding, balancing humour and reassurance. They were so knowledgeable and put us at ease from start to finish. A once-in-a-lifetime experience, recommend to everyone, even those nervous of heights!" — hanzb1973

Real Experiences from Our Passengers

“Unbelievable and surreal experience, so peaceful. The perfect escape from reality”

“So many photos to choose from - had an amazing balloon flight on 31st March from the Four Seasons hotel in Dogmersfield, Hampshire. Professional, experienced and very friendly pilot made the experience all the better. Recommended! If anyone wants to do it, do it!”

“Loved our trip to the sky over Hampshire!#floatface”

“We had an excellent flight for our wedding anniversary last Thursday. Big thank you to the team who looked after us from Guildford, hope to maybe see you again for a rerun sometime!!”

A Sky-High Proposal

For many couples, a hot air balloon ride is the perfect setting for a proposal. Imagine popping the question surrounded by stunning landscapes, with the world far below and only the clouds above. The intimate, serene atmosphere creates a moment that’s as unforgettable as it is unique. Proposing in the sky transforms a romantic gesture into an extraordinary memory that you’ll cherish forever.

“Fantastic flight on Easter Sunday from The Four Seasons Hotel, Hampshire. Perfect weather, perfect flight and to top it all off, I am now engaged! Thank you to the lovely man who managed to capture this moment for us. We will never forget our flight!”

These shared moments from our passengers highlight why flying with Virgin in Surrey and Hampshire creates memories that last a lifetime. Each flight is a unique adventure, waiting to unfold across the beautiful landscapes of these historic counties.

Morning Itinerary:

The Boathouse Café, Millbrook, Guildford: Located close to the Guildford launch site and the River Wey, The Boathouse Café offers the perfect spot to fuel up before your flight. Enjoy a delicious breakfast with fantastic views of the river, setting a serene tone for your upcoming adventure. Please note: Opening hours may vary depending on the season, so it's recommended to check ahead before your visit.

The Parlour Tea Room, Guildford: Start your day with a quintessentially British experience at The Parlour Tea Room. Located in the heart of Guildford, this charming spot offers a range of delicious breakfast options, from full English breakfasts to freshly baked pastries. Opening Hours: 10 am (Tue-Sat)

The Ivy House, Alton: Located in the heart of Alton, The Ivy House is a delightful café and tearoom that exudes charm and warmth. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious homemade offerings, this spot is perfect for fuelling up before your hot air balloon adventure. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast or just a cup of expertly brewed coffee, The Ivy House has you covered. It’s also a fantastic place to relax and soak in the quaint surroundings, with a menu that caters to all tastes. Opening Hours: 8 am

Afternoon Itinerary:

Polesden Lacey, Surrey (National Trust): Spend your afternoon exploring Polesden Lacey, a beautiful Edwardian estate with stunning gardens and panoramic views of the Surrey Hills. It's a perfect place to unwind after an early morning flight.
 

Jane Austen’s House, Chawton: For those flying from Alton, a visit to Jane Austen’s House is a must. The former home of one of England’s greatest writers, it offers a fascinating glimpse into her life and work.

Winchester Cathedral, Hampshire: One of the largest and most historic cathedrals in Europe, Winchester Cathedral is an awe-inspiring site. After a serene balloon ride, wandering through this stunning Gothic structure is a great way to continue your day.

Loseley Park, Guildford: Explore the beautiful gardens and historic house at Loseley Park, just a short drive from Guildford. The estate, still family-owned, offers a peaceful retreat with its well-tended gardens and parkland.

Pubs and Fine Dining:

The Ivy Castle View, Guildford: Offering a sophisticated dining experience with stunning views of Guildford Castle, The Ivy Castle View is a fantastic choice for those seeking upscale cuisine in a relaxed setting.

The Thomas Lord, Petersfield: A traditional country pub located near Alton, The Thomas Lord is known for its seasonal menus and locally sourced ingredients. It’s the perfect spot for a hearty meal after a morning in the skies.

The Greyfriar, Chawton: Just a stone’s throw from Jane Austen’s House, this charming pub offers a range of classic British dishes. It’s a wonderful spot to relax and soak in the historic atmosphere of the area.

These selections provide an excellent mix of historical exploration, natural beauty, and culinary delights, ensuring your hot air balloon experience is complemented by memorable activities and meals.

Surrey and Hampshire offer some of the most picturesque and memorable hot air ballooning experiences in the UK. From the breathtaking views over the rolling hills and historic landmarks to the serene moments floating above ancient woodlands and charming villages, a hot air balloon flight in these counties is truly a bucket list experience. This is more than just a flight—it’s a journey that will leave an indelible mark on your memory, something you’ll cherish for years to come.

Ready to tick off that unforgettable bucket list item? Book your flight with Virgin Balloon Flights today and be sure to join our Facebook Group, where you can see the incredible experiences shared by other passengers.

There’s nothing quite like the exhilaration and tranquillity of a hot air balloon ride over Surrey and Hampshire. From the moment you lift off to the gentle landing, every second is filled with wonder and awe. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard and help you create memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready to embark on your next great adventure with us—up in the skies!