This season, as well as welcoming pilot Peter Philpot aboard to fly our balloon rides over Cumbria, Carlisle Racecoursewe’ve also added a fantastic new launch site at Carlisle Racecourse. Placed on the path of Hadrian’s Wall, Carlisle sits on the border of Scotland and the Lake District. The county town holds many tales surrounding the famous Carlisle Castle and Carlisle Cathedral. Whilst maintaining its historical feel, Carlisle has grown to be a very vibrant, cultured city. Taking off directly from Carlisle Racecourse, this launch site provides the perfect starting point for your balloon flight over Cumbria. Carlisle provides plenty of interesting sights to witness below the basket. You may enjoy a unique perspective of the beautiful gardens of Bitts Park, containing colourful Carlisle Bitts Park flowerbedsflower beds, green lawns and a statue of Queen Victoria. Or you could possibly float over Talkin Tarn Country Park, giving you a complete view of the 65-acre lake where you may see visitors sailing, windsurfing, canoeing and even pike fishing.Carlisle Castle A likely spot from the sky is Carlisle Castle which sits on the border of England and Scotland. Built during the reign of William II of England, it has survived many attacks over its 900 years of history. Just two minutes away from the castle, your balloon may drift over the Carlisle Cathedral which was constructed with fine carved wood and stonework, with delicate stained glass added to it between the 14th and 20thc. You can experience hot air ballooning from Carlisle or any of our other launch sites with Virgin Balloon Flights from as little as £99pp, simply call our office on 0844 844 8080 or visit our website.