The Ultimate Guide to Northumberland Balloon Festival 2024

Brand new in 2024, the Northumberland Hot Air Balloon Festival is set to make its debut in style. Whether you’re a die-hard balloon festival goer or new to the scene, we’re here to make sure your weekend at the Northumberland Festival is nothing short of amazing. So if live entertainment, street food, and the chance to soar above the Northumberland landscape sounds like your idea of a perfect weekend, you've come to the right place.

This guide has everything you need to know, about one of the best things to do in Northumberland! With a lineup of exhilarating activities and breathtaking sights, the Northumberland Hot Air Balloon Festival promises an unforgettable experience for all ages. Get ready to create lasting memories and discover the magic of ballooning at this exciting new event.

Key Takeaways

• Find out how to book tickets to the Northumberland Balloon Festival

• Practical tips for making the most of the festival

• How to book a hot air balloon ride and take part in the mass ascents

• Discover other hot air balloon ride locations near this festival

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend, the Northumberland Balloon Festival takes place this year from:

Friday 12th July 2024 - Sunday 14th July 2024 at Tynedale Rugby Club

Join us for three days of hot air balloons, live entertainment and endless fun for all the family.

What Time Does the Festival Start?

The festival kicks off on Friday, 12th July 2024, from 17:00 to 22:00. On Saturday and Sunday, from 12:00 to 22:00, giving you plenty of time to soak in all the fun and excitement.

Booking your tickets for the Northumberland Balloon Festival is easy and essential since no tickets will be sold at the gate. Prices are straightforward: £5 for Friday, £15 for Saturday, and £10 for Sunday. There’s no price difference for children or adults—everyone comes under one ticket cost. And the good news is, children under 2 years old go free! Just remember to buy your tickets in advance to make sure you secure your spot for a fantastic weekend.

Booking Car Parking at the Northumberland Balloon Festival

Yes, parking is available for £5 per day at the Northumberland Balloon Festival. However, due to limited space and environmental concerns, we encourage attendees to consider using public transport. If you are travelling by car, we recommend booking your parking pass online in advance, as spaces are limited and will sell out quickly. This ensures you have a spot and can enjoy the festival without any hassle.

The Northumberland Balloon Festival is held at Tyne Dale Rugby Club in Corbridge, a picturesque and easily accessible location nestled amidst the stunning Northumberland countryside. Getting there is a breeze, with several transport options available:

By Car

Driving to the festival is straightforward. Enter Tyne Dale Rugby Club, Corbridge, into your sat-nav or follow the A69 if you're coming from the west or east. While there is parking available on-site, spaces are limited. It's recommended to buy a parking pass ahead of the event as spaces sell out quickly. Follow the festival signs as you approach Corbridge for the easiest route.

By Bus

Several bus routes serve Corbridge, making it accessible for those using public transport. Routes 685 and X85 run regularly and stop near Corbridge. Check your local bus schedule for exact times and stops. From the bus stop, it’s a short walk to Tyne Dale Rugby Club. Be sure to plan your journey in advance to avoid any delays.

By Train

Corbridge has a well-connected train station, served by Northern Rail. If you’re coming from Newcastle, the train ride takes about 30 minutes. From Carlisle, it’s around an hour. Once you arrive at Corbridge station, it’s a quick taxi ride or a pleasant 15-minute walk to Tyne Dale Rugby Club. Trains run frequently, but check the schedule for the best times.

By Foot

If you’re staying locally, walking to the festival is a great option as you’ll avoid the stress of traffic and long queues. The scenic route through Corbridge adds to the experience, and it’s only about a 15-minute walk from the village centre to Tyne Dale Rugby Club. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful surroundings as you make your way to the festival.

We are thrilled to offer the opportunity to book a hot air balloon ride from the Northumberland festival with any of our vouchers, giving you the chance to join the mass ascent alongside up to 25 other balloons.

Our balloon ride vouchers unlock the option to fly from over 100 locations throughout the UK, including Northumberland Balloon Festival.

Bookable slots will open up closer to the date of the balloon fiesta.

These rides typically take place early in the morning or early evening, providing breathtaking views of the Northumberland landscape. With the wild landscape before you and a sky filled with colourful balloons, flying in the mass ascent is a truly magical experience that you won't want to miss.

Hot Air Ballooning and the Weather

While flying from a hot air balloon festival is a unique and exciting experience, there is always a chance that your flight may not go ahead due to unfavourable weather conditions. Ideal conditions for a hot air balloon ride include clear skies, calm winds, and good visibility. Our pilots constantly monitor the weather to ensure the safest and most enjoyable flight experience for all passengers.

Hot Air Balloon Launch Sites Near Northumberland

If your flight is affected, don’t worry. Vouchers purchased with Virgin Balloon Flights are flexible and not limited to festivals or specific launch sites. They are valid nationwide and can be used throughout our flying season at any other hot air balloon festival we participate in, as well as at any of our bookable launch sites. This ensures you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy your ballooning adventure when the weather is perfect.

Check out some of our locations near the Northumberland Balloon Festival below.

If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Northumberland, The Northumberland Balloon Festival offers a vibrant lineup of exciting activities, including mass balloon launches, live entertainment featuring local bands and singers and most spectacular of all the after dark hot air balloon shows!

Mass Balloon Launches

The festival kicks off with a spectacular display as colourful hot air balloons take flight together, painting the Northumberland skyline with a vibrant display. It's a sight that never fails to capture the imagination and bring joy to all who witness it. And for those eager to be part of the magic, our balloon rides are available to book in advance, offering the unique opportunity to get involved in this unforgettable experience!

Night Glow

As darkness falls, the festival takes on a magical aura as hot air balloons are lit up in sync with music, casting a mesmerising glow against the night sky. It's a breathtaking sight that truly captures the imagination and leaves a lasting impression on all who experience it.

Live Entertainment

Throughout the day, a wide selection of talented local musicians and bands will provide the perfect soundtrack for a day of relaxation and enjoyment. So, whether you’re sitting back and soaking in the atmosphere or getting up and dancing with friends, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Derek the Dinosaur Walkabout

Keep an eye out for Derek the Dinosaur as he roams the festival grounds, spreading cheer and posing for photos with delighted visitors. His playful antics and friendly demeanor make him a hit with both children and adults alike.

Funfair Rides

Thrill-seekers of all ages will find plenty to get their hearts racing with a variety of funfair rides to choose from. Whether you're spinning, looping, or soaring through the air, each ride promises an exhilarating experience you won't soon forget.

Street Food

Indulge in delicious gourmet street food from various stalls, offering flavours from around the world. From juicy burgers to tasty tacos and fragrant curries, there's something to satisfy every craving. So grab a bite, find a comfy spot, and enjoy a taste of your favourite cuisine while soaking up the festival atmosphere.

At the Northumberland Balloon Festival, accessibility is a priority to ensure that everyone can enjoy the festivities, including wheelchair users and families with pushchairs.

Disabled Toilets

Plentiful disabled toilets are strategically located throughout the venue, ensuring convenience and accessibility for all attendees. These facilities are designed to accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities, providing a comfortable and accessible experience for all.

Disabled Parking

While disabled parking spaces cannot be guaranteed, attendees can pre-purchase disabled parking permits to ensure ease of access upon arrival. Simply inform a car parking attendant upon entry, and they will assist you in finding a suitable parking spot.

Concessions for Carers

Although concessions specifically for carers are not available, ticket prices for the Northumberland Balloon Festival have been deliberately kept affordable to make the event accessible to all.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned balloon festival goer, these helpful tips will ensure you make the most of your experience at the Northumberland Balloon Festival.

• Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the mass balloon launches.

• Bring a blanket or folding chairs for comfortable seating during live entertainment.

• Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning sights of the illuminated balloons during the Night Glow event.

• Pack a picnic or enjoy the delicious food stalls available on-site.

• Dress in layers as the weather can change throughout the day.

• Stay hydrated throughout the day.

• Check the festival's website or social media for any updates or schedule changes before heading out.

Something else you’re curious about? Hopefully these frequently asked questions will provide the answers you're looking for.

When are the balloon flights scheduled?

Balloon flights typically occur at sunrise and sunset, with planned launches between 6pm and 7:30pm on Saturday and Sunday. Additionally, there's a morning ascent on both Saturday and Sunday from 6am to 7:30am. On Friday, expect a balloon launch around 10pm.

What happens if the weather is unfavourable?

All balloon activities are dependent on weather conditions. Updates will be shared on our Facebook page following the pilot's briefing. While the event will proceed, timing adjustments may occur.

Where can I find updates about balloon activities?

For the latest updates on balloon-related events, please refer to the Northumberland Balloon Festival Facebook page.

Can I bring my own food and drink?

Yes, picnics are allowed, but kindly refrain from bringing glass items or alcohol. Bag checks will be conducted at the entrance.

Are dogs allowed at the festival?

Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead. Please note that during extremely hot weather conditions, dogs may not be permitted onsite for their safety.

Is re-entry allowed if I leave the festival grounds?

Absolutely! Just make sure to obtain a hand stamp from security upon exiting for hassle-free re-entry.

What are the rules regarding gazebos, BBQs, and security?

Unfortunately, gazebos, large umbrellas, and portable BBQs are not permitted onsite. However, small shade tents for children and portable chairs are allowed. Our security team will be monitoring the area, and individuals found with prohibited items or engaging in disruptive behavior will be asked to leave without a refund.

So if you’re looking for things to do in Northumberland this summer, look no further than the Northumberland Balloon Festival. This unmissable family-friendly event promises an unforgettable experience filled with awe-inspiring sights and thrilling adventures. From the mesmerising mass balloon launches to the lively entertainment and night glow performance, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

If you’re eager to discover more ballooning fun, be sure to check out our guide to hot air balloon festivals across the UK, where you can explore even more family friendly days out and plan your next festival escapade!