With the school summer holidays upon us, here are our top tips for getting the most out of the six-week break, without spending a penny!
Whatever the weather, make this summer one you'll never forget.
Go on an adventure, make memories, and enjoy beautiful Britain in style:
1. Be at one with nature:
The Woodland Trust has loads of family activities suitable for both sunny and rainy days.
There are also plenty of free events across the UK to choose from, including picnics, ranger clubs, and volunteering days.
Balloon pilot's tip:
Visit Herman Beech Wood in West Calder, Scotland. One of the Woodland Trust's most popular sites, this beautiful, diverse woodland dates back to the 18th century. Located in West Lothian, it's also just a few miles from our Biggar and Lanark hot air balloon ride launch site - so you could see us floating by and give us a wave.
2. Make Friends with some Farm Animals:
If you live in the countryside, why not see if anyone knows your local farmer and pop in and see them one day?
Those based inner-city can take advantage of the many free city farms in the UK.
Balloon pilot's tip:
If you want to see some animals, you could even head to Notcutt's Garden Centre near our St Albans balloon ride site.
3. Go to a Free UK Summer Festival:
There's sure to be a free festival or carnival in your area at some point during the six-week break.
If you're looking for a fun, free thing to do in the South West, be sure to visit the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2017 from 10th - 13th August.
The spectacular "mass ascents," where hundreds of hot air balloons go up, up and away, offer incredible sites. Plus, there's a funfair, stalls, and other aviation fun.
Balloon pilot's tip:
See if you can spot the big red Virgin balloon at this year's Bristol Balloon Fiesta and share your pic on the Virgin Balloon Flights Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram page with #VirginFiesta for your chance to win a balloon flight for two.
4. Get Sporty:
Head down to your local recreation ground and take a bat and ball. Try your hand at cricket or make up your own mini sports day.
Take a picnic with you and make an afternoon of it. As little ones can keep busy on the playground, this really is a day for everyone.
Balloon pilot's tip:
If you're visiting or based in Surrey, head to Shalford Park - our Guildford hot air balloon site - there are football, rounders, and ultimate Frisbee clubs, plus plenty of space to relax, exercise, or walk the dog.
5. Visit the Edinburgh Fringe Festival:
Running from 27th July - 27th August, this month-long festival in beautiful Edinburgh offers loads of free fun for all the family. There are 400 shows, including comedy, music, film, dance, circus theatre and more. There's also a dedicated kids' programme.
Balloon pilot's tip:
If you're heading further north in Scotland, be sure to check out the Lomond Hills - an energetic walk, but worth it for those incredible views. You may even spot us in the skies, as our Falkland balloon experience is here.
Keep your eyes on the skies at 7 am and 7 pm every day as you could be lucky enough to spot one of our big red balloons. If you share your pic with us using #BalloonSpotter, you could win a flight for two.
Check out our hot air balloon locations and find your nearest take-off spot.
See our Easter blog for more ideas on free things to do with the kids this summer, and remember to #TakeLifeHigher.
Enjoy :)