If you're looking for a city full of charm, then you can't miss Winchester. This city is known for its historical significance, as for many centuries it was considered the capital of England. For this reason, its streets look like something out of a fairy tale.

Discovering the treasures of this region on foot is not a bad idea, but we suggest you see it in a unique way. What about seeing the beautiful green landscapes from above? Yes, you read that right. This is exactly what we are suggesting: discovering Winchester by flying over it in a hot air balloon. Flying over the city is such a great plan that every October there is even a hot air balloon festival.

If you think that this activity is difficult to organise, we have to tell you that you are mistaken. It is, rather, quite the opposite: a relaxing and exciting experience that we assure you that you have to experience at least once in your life.

Where to do a hot air balloon flight in Winchester?

They always takes place on the outskirts of the city, in West Meon, as from here it is the best place to perform all the necessary manoeuvres. Don't worry, because the city is small and so it won't take you long to get to the take-off point.

During the flight you will be able to see the South Downs National Park in the distance, along with the white cliffs of Seven Sisters and the famous Beachy Head lighthouse. You can also see the picturesque city and the beautiful Winchester Cathedral from above, which is of unique historical and cultural value, and the Great Hall. This castle may ring a bell,as it is home to the legendary Round Table of King Arthur and his knights. Another place you'll see from a unique perspective is Highclere Castle, the setting for the filming of the period series Downton Abbey.

As you'll see, this place is home to some famous sites that you might not have been expecting to find there. So don't miss this opportunity to see from a bird's-eye view! We're sure you'll want to photograph everything, so don't forget to bring a camera!

How long does a ride last?

Ballooning typically lasts about 3 to 4 hours and is usually done in the early morning or early evening. In England, the skies get dark early, so don't expect to be flying too late in the evening either. If you choose to take it in the morning, you can enjoy a hearty breakfast upon landing, and if you prefer to see the colours of the sunset reflected on the city, you can enjoy a glass of champagne after touching down.

Both flight times offer different possibilities, but the programme is the same for both. When you arrive at the meeting point, you will be offered the option to set up the balloon together with the rest of the passengers who will be going up with you. We recommend that you take part in the this process, as this way you will experience the whole adventure. Once everything is assembled, the relaxing flight will begin and you will enjoy it like you were a little child. When you land, you will have the option of helping to disassemble it. We can assure you that you'll have a great time after this experience, so come and join us. Afterwards, you'll be able to celebrate and toast to the experience with your fellow passengers. Of course, it's an adventure all the way through, so don't rush and enjoy every step of the way.

When is the best time of year to go?

Although it is often thought that the summer months would be the best months for hot air ballooning, you need to keep in mind that the weather in England is completely different to other places. For this reason, the best time of year here is during the summer season, which is the driest month of the year, and in autumn. Winter is also recommended, however, if you are sensitive to the cold, it may be a little too much, as the temperatures in the sky are much chillier.

Please keep in mind that the flight will depend on the weather conditions on that day, and so if there is a lot of rain, fog or snow, the activity will be cancelled for your safety and you will have to fly on another day when the conditions are optimal. In spring we do not advise you to do it because this is when it rains the most and although the fields are greener than ever, you will typically be unable to see them due to how cloudy it is.

Requirements to do this activity

If you are thinking about organising a family outing, but don't know if your children can go up in the balloon or not, don't worry because this is really simple. Children must be at least 7 years old and must be at least 1.10 metres tall. For us the most important thing is your safety and comfort, and that's why we put these restrictions, so that everyone can fully enjoy the experience of flying.

On the other hand, if you are going on an end-of-year getaway with your friends, the only thing you should bear in mind is that you all have to be over 16 years of age, so that you can go on the adventure on your own. If one of your group is under this age, then they must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Now that you have all the information you need to book a flight, it won't seem so complicated! Don't wait any longer and get ready to experience this adventure from above and enjoy this city full of history and culture.