Imagine the thrill as you soar majestically skywards in the basket of a huge balloon with beautiful Lake Windermere stretching away before and beneath you…Well, this dream can now be a reality, because with Virgin Balloon Flights you can take off right beside England’s largest and most famous natural lake. Found at the southern tip of the lake in the heart of the Lake District, Newby Bridge takes its name from the five-arched bridge built across the river Leven in 1651 and is arguably one of the most spectacular balloon launch sites in the world.
As you admire the 12-mile-long expanse of water, formed thousands of years ago during the last ice age, you’ll see jetties, islands and boats of all kinds. Keep an eye out for a giant eel-like creature which is said to roam the lake!
You’re sure to enjoy the panoramic views of the tree-clad hills and hollows, whilst towns such as Bowness-on-Windermere and Windermere itself may come into view to the north. You may also catch a glimpse of Hawkshead, a picturesque village known for being the home of children’s author Beatrix Potter.
You may see one of Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway’s chugging steam trains, which once carried passengers and freight from Lakeside to Lancashire. This line was closed by British Rail in the 1960s, and now the only part remaining is the 3.5 miles from Haverthwaite, through Newby Bridge to the terminus at Lakeside.
Drifting east may take you over The National Trust’s Fell Foot Park and Gardens. The attractive seven hectare grounds just across the southern end of Windermere are a popular playing ground for picnicking and relaxing.
At a high altitude, Coniston Water to the north west, shimmering Morcambe Bay to the south and even the Irish Sea could come into view. Now that’s what we call sightseeing!directionsNewby Bridge (Lake Windermere) launch site:- Rusland Pool Hotel Haverthwaite Ulverston Cumbria LA12 8AA Approaching from the M6: Exit M6 at junction 36 and proceed westbound along the A590 towards Kendal. Take first exit onto the A590 towards Newby Bridge, Ulverston and Barrow in Furness. Continue through Newby Bridge towards Ulverston, passing through Backbarrow and Haverthwaite. The Rusland Pool Hotel is situated on the right hand side of the A590, one mile west of Haverthwaite. flight information linePlease call 0844 576 7527 to confirm the status of your flight. |
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