Hit book and film the Da Vinci Code has everyone talking about the Holy Grail, what it is and where it may be found. So, not wanting to be left out, Virgin Balloon Flights have joined the quest and so can you.
There are few better places to start than Hawkstone Park (www.hawkstone.co.uk), home to our new launch site. Set in miles of beautiful north Shropshire countryside between Shrewsbury and Whitchurch, the Historic Park and Follies are steeped in myth and mystery.
As you soar into the sky, you’ll spy several weird and wonderful sights below like the Gothic Arch perched on a cliff high above the park and golf course.
It is below here, in a grotto carved deep inside the rock that local legend conjures up images of King Arthur addressing his troops in the Middle Ages.
And, in his acclaimed book The Search for the Grail, historian and author Graham Phillips claims this network of caves is where a cup called the Marian Chalice – possibly the vessel that started the legend of the Grail – was found.
Other landmarks at Hawkstone Park (www.hawkstone.co.uk), the backdrop for the BBC’s Chronicles of Narnia series, hold intrigue of their own. The Red Castle is said to have been built and inhabited by two giants, Tarquin and Tarquinus. Look out for a tall tower, the Obelisk, which emerges from the tree-capped hills, and Swiss Bridge which spans a treacherous ravine.
Wind-willing, you’ll enjoy views to the Wrekin, the Breiddons and Wales, down to Cannock Chase and across the plains of Shropshire and Cheshire from the basket. Other local delights, including Hodnet Hall, might also catch your eye.
We wouldn’t like to say how much of Hawkstone Park’s (www.hawkstone.co.uk) story is fact, and how much is fairytale, but join us for a journey in the clouds and you never know what secrets you might unlock.
directionsHawkstone Park Hotel
Weston-Under-Redcastle
Shrewsbury
Shropshire
SY4 5UY Weston-Under-Redcastle is just off the A49 north of Shrewsbury towards Whitchurch.
Please park in the hotel car park where the balloon crew will meet you to check you in for your flight. flight information linePlease call 0844 576 7529 to confirm the status of your flight. |
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