Welcome to Hot Air Ballooning

Join us in one of our beautiful balloons for a flight over the lovely countryside. If you live near the area we may even drift over your house. You’ll be surprised how different everything looks from the air, it’s sure to be an experience you will never forget. 

How do I book a flight?

To book a flight please ring 01242 675003 or complete the form and book directly from our site!!

General information

When booking, passengers may, if they wish, request to fly on some specific dates and we will endeavour to meet their wishes.
Passengers are welcome to bring friends and family to see them off and anyone wishing to track the progress of the balloon can do so by following our retrieve vehicle.

How long will the flight last?

A flight usually lasts about an hour although you should plan to be away for three to four hours.
Throughout the year we fly soon after dawn and at least an hour before sunset. In the winter it is possible to fly at any time during the day, however, balloons are not flown when it is wet or windy. The decision to fly always rests with the pilot.

Where will we land?

No-one knows! That’s the beauty of ballooning  - drifting with the wind. The pilot will choose a suitable place in which to bring you back to earth.
Our crew will follow the flight in the retrieve vehicle to collect the balloon and return you to the launch site.

How high and how far will we go?

This depends on the weather and the topographical conditions and is at the pilot’s discretion, but we usually fly between 500 and 2,000 feet.
Balloons can only travel at the same speed of the wind, therefore, the distance we travel will depend on the wind speed at the time of our flight.

What will I learn?

Your first flight will be an insight into this magnificent sport, which is enjoyed by people the world over.
You will see the balloon prepared for flight, the pilot carry out his pre-flight checks and will be able to ask him questions during the flight.
If the pilot considers the conditions suitable, you may be able to try your hand at a little “burner time” and experience the sensation of flying a hot air balloon yourself.

 What should I wear?

For your safety and comfort we suggest you wear outdoor clothing suitable for the time of year. Long trousers, long sleeves, and preferably natural fibres.
Warm and waterproof footwear and no high heels. A hat if you are thin on top will protect you from the burners.

 May I bring a camera?

Please do! Balloons are an excellent platform for photography. Their flight is steady and gentle the views can be spectacular on a clear day

A voucher for a balloon flight is an ideal gift for Christmas, Birthday, Valentine’s Day, Easter, that special occasion or as a treat for a special person.

1st Choice Balloon Flights Ltd.

Flight Operations Office
Bushcombe Lane
Woodmancote
Cheltenham
Gloucestershire
GL52 4QJ

 Telephone: 01242 675003