Hickstead Hot Air Balloon Rides

Fun & Interesting Facts

Hickstead is known as the 'home of British showjumping', with the All England Jumping Course celebrating more than 60 years hosting the greatest show jumpers in the world.

About

Take flight on a West Sussex balloon ride for an experience day you will never forget.

Our beautiful big red balloon in West Sussex takes you up, up and away from the iconic Hickstead Showground, home of the All England Jumping Course and one of the world's most famous equestrian venues.

First opened in 1960, in 2021 it celebrated hosting the famous Al Shira'aa Derby for the 60th time.

Our closest launch site for those looking for Brighton hot air balloon rides, whichever way the wind takes you brings gorgeous views across beautiful English countryside.

If you look towards the South, the right wind on a very clear day could even bring views of the coast.

Take life higher with Virgin Balloon flights on a West Sussex hot air balloon flight.

Directions

Travelling South on the A23, take the exit signposted for the B2118 towards Henfield, Albourne and for Hickstead Showground.
Follow the slip road round and at the roundabout, take the second exit turning right as if to come back onto the A23 heading North.
After approximately 600 yards the entrance is on the left and clearly signposted.

Travelling North on the A23, take the exit signposted for the B2118 towards Albourne and for Hickstead Showground.
At the top of the slip road, turn left onto the B2117 and then take the next right onto the B2118 signposted for Albourne.
Follow the B2118 all the way through Albourne and Sayers Common, then at the roundabout continue straight as if heading back onto the A23.
After approximately 600 yards the entrance is on the left and clearly signposted.

Turn in and then go straight down following the wall on your left.
The launch field is at the end of the wall. Please park here, where the crew will meet you.

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