Spotlight On Cotswolds Hot Air Balloon Rides

Reading Time - 9 minutes

Take Life Higher Over The Cotswolds

 

Have you ever dreamt of floating above the rolling hills, quaint villages and timeless charm of the Cotswolds? If you or someone special is ready for an adventure, a hot air balloon ride over the Cotswolds is the perfect way to experience this iconic region from a whole new perspective.

 

Picture our big red balloon lifting off from Cheltenham at dawn, gently drifting past storybook villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury. Maybe you’ll spot familiar rooftops, winding country roads or the hidden gems that make the Cotswolds so magical.

 

If you’re looking to check off a once-in-a-lifetime experience — or give a truly unforgettable gift — this is your chance. Glide peacefully through the sky, where every view is breathtaking, and every moment feels like a memory in the making.

 

Ready to take life higher?
 

Floating over paradise...nothing beats the Cotswolds | Virgin Balloon Flights

Discover Ballooning Adventures in the Cotswolds

Did you know that the Cotswolds is home to the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in England and Wales? Stretching over nearly 800 square miles, the Cotswolds encompasses a wealth of history and natural beauty.

This region is famed for its charming honey-coloured stone villages, such as Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water, which are often described as the most beautiful in England.

The Cotswolds also boasts a rich history, with landmarks such as Sudeley Castle, the final resting place of Queen Katherine Parr, and the ancient market towns like Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Campden, which have been bustling centres of trade for centuries.

Bibury, Cotswold | Canva

Flying over the Cotswolds in a hot air balloon, you can admire the intricate patterns of dry stone walls, the spires of mediaeval churches and the rolling green hills that define this quintessentially English landscape. 

This unique perspective showcases the Cotswolds' timeless beauty and historical significance, making hot air ballooning an unforgettable experience.

Soaring High Over Cotswolds

Soaring above the Cotswolds in a hot air balloon provides some of the most breathtaking views imaginable. 

From the launch site in Shipston-on-Stour, you'll drift over charming villages with their iconic honey-coloured stone cottages set against the backdrop of rolling green hills and patchwork fields. 

In Tewkesbury, you can admire the historic Tewkesbury Abbey, along with the rivers Avon and Severn meandering through the landscape.

Tewkesbury Abbey, Cotswold
Tewkesbury Abbey, Cotswold | Canva

Taking off from Cheltenham, you'll enjoy panoramic views of this Regency spa town, known for its elegant architecture and beautiful parks. 

Evesham offers a unique perspective on the lush Vale of Evesham, famous for its horticultural produce and stunning blossom trails in spring. 

And while Bath is technically just outside the Cotswolds, ballooning from here gives you an unparalleled view of its historic Roman and Georgian architecture, nestled in the surrounding countryside.

Seasonal Highlights

The Cotswolds’ scenery transforms beautifully with the seasons, making each balloon flight a unique experience. From March to October, the landscape offers a variety of sights and colours that will leave you in awe.

Spring: As the Cotswolds awakens from winter, fields and gardens burst into life with vibrant wildflowers and blossoming orchards. The sight of apple and cherry blossoms from above is truly enchanting, especially around Evesham, where the Vale of Evesham is known for its stunning blossom trails.

Summer: The lush green countryside is at its most radiant, dotted with golden wheat fields and verdant vineyards. Summer flights offer the best visibility, allowing you to see for miles in every direction. The warm weather also makes for a pleasant and serene flying experience.

Idyllic Rural Farmland In Cotswolds
Idyllic Rural Farmland In Cotswolds | Matthew Dixon

Autumn: As the leaves change, the landscape takes on warm hues of red, orange, and gold. This season provides a stunning backdrop of autumnal colours, especially over the woodlands and hedgerows around Shipston-on-Stour and Tewkesbury. The crisp air and clear skies make autumn flights particularly exhilarating.

No matter when you choose to fly, a hot air balloon ride over the Cotswolds offers a breathtaking perspective on the county’s ever-changing beauty. Each season brings its own charm, ensuring a memorable and picturesque adventure in the skies.

Cotswolds Launch Sites

Cotswolds (Shipston-on-Stour)

Shipston-on-Stour is a charming market town in the northern Cotswolds, known for its historic buildings and vibrant community. 

As a launch site, it offers stunning views of the rolling hills and quintessential English countryside. Our iconic big red balloon launches from this pretty town, right in the Lea of the Cotswolds, offering views stretching for miles across the stunning countryside in every direction.

Depending on the wind direction, you could spot some of the Cotswolds' most captivating sights:

Hidcote Gardens – The National Trust's stunning Arts and Crafts-style gardens.

The Rollright Stones – An ancient, mysterious stone circle that's shrouded in legend.

Chastleton House – A Jacobean masterpiece with timeless charm.

Each flight from Shipston-on-Stour offers a unique and breathtaking view of the Cotswolds' rolling hills, charming villages, and picturesque landscapes.

Fun fact: Shipston-On-Stour was once a major wool trading town. Its name derives from the Old English, which means "sheep-wash town".

Tewkesbury

Tewkesbury is a medieval town known for its well-preserved abbey and historic architecture. From this launch site, you'll take in stunning bird's-eye views of:

Tewkesbury Abbey – A masterpiece of mediaeval design.

The rivers Avon and Severn – Winding gracefully through the landscape.

Floodplain meadows – Stretching out below, creating a peaceful and picturesque scene.

Fun fact: Tewkesbury is known for its annual mediaeval festival, which is the largest free mediaeval reenactment event in Europe, commemorating the Battle of Tewkesbury in 1471.

Tewkesbury Virgin Hot Air Balloon
Tewkesbury | Virgin Hot Air Balloon

Cheltenham

Cheltenham is a Regency spa town celebrated for its elegant architecture, gardens and vibrant festivals. Launching from here offers panoramic views of the town’s historic buildings, scenic parks and the surrounding Cotswold hills.

Depending on the wind direction, you might spot:

Sudeley Castle – A stunning historic landmark nestled in the countryside.

The Royal Forest of Dean – Known for its natural beauty and ancient woodlands.

To the southwest, you’ll see the cathedral city of Gloucester, framed by the lush Severn Valley and overlooked by the Cotswold Hills. 

To the north, the medieval town of Tewkesbury awaits, with its iconic timber-framed buildings and rich history.

Fun fact: Cheltenham is famous for the Cheltenham Festival, a major national hunt racing event held every March at Cheltenham Racecourse, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Evesham

Adventure awaits above Evesham! Take to the skies for a spectacular hot air balloon ride over beautiful Worcestershire. As you drift peacefully, keep an eye out for:

The dramatic Malvern Hills to the west, creating a stunning backdrop.

The winding River Avon gracefully curving around the town.

Fairytale-perfect villages nestled among the lush landscapes.

A patchwork of fields and orchards showcasing the region’s rich agricultural heritage.

Every view from above promises a picture-perfect moment you’ll treasure forever.

Fun fact: Evesham is well-known for its annual Asparagus Festival, which celebrates the local asparagus harvest.

man looking over a hot air balloon basket at the sunrise
Evesham sunrise balloon flight | Julia Husband

Bath

Although just outside the Cotswolds, Bath offers a launch site like no other. 

As you lift off, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of its iconic Roman and Georgian architecture, including landmarks like the historic Roman Baths and the sweeping Royal Crescent. All of this is set against a stunning countryside backdrop that makes the experience truly unforgettable.

Fun fact: Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its natural hot springs and its rich architectural history, from well-preserved Roman baths to grand Georgian terraces. The city has been a spa destination since Roman times and continues to enchant visitors today.

Each of these launch sites offers a unique perspective on the Cotswolds' rich history and stunning landscapes, ensuring an unforgettable hot air balloon adventure.

Passenger Perspective

Flying with Virgin in the Cotswolds means breathtaking views, peaceful moments, and memories that last a lifetime. 

Passengers often talk about the calm of drifting over rolling hills and the thrill of seeing iconic landmarks from above. Their reviews highlight the magic of experiencing the Cotswolds from the sky.

We've gathered some of their most memorable stories and reflections below, offering a glimpse into what makes a Virgin Balloon Flight so special.

Glowing Reviews from Our Happy Customers

"My experience was very good and the weather was excellent" holder_fiona

"Wow! Balloon flight was incredible and so peaceful and calming. Russell with very informative, and I felt safe the whole time. Breathtaking and a must for anyone who wants an experience to remember!"jgar549

"Enjoyable experience from start to finish. Well worth the wait!"johnpill

"Everything I'd hoped it would be and more"jen-sands

“Looking out over the Cotswolds.....Awesome!”

“Thank you Virgin Balloon Flights for our fantastic experience of flying over The Cotswolds yesterday! 😍 Check out our #FloatFace 😀 #TakeLifeHigher #Adventure #VirginBalloonFlights#hotairballoon#VirginBalloons#upupandaway#flyinghigh

“An absolutely awesome flight from Cheltenham on Sunday 13th May - we lifted at 0645 and had Russell Collins as a fantastic pilot 🙂 ”

 

These reviews and real-life stories highlight the unique allure of taking to the skies with Virgin in the Cotswolds. Ready to create your own sky-high memories? Let’s take a look at what else you can explore in this beautiful region.

Things To Do In Cotswolds

Planning a day trip around your hot air balloon ride in the Cotswolds is a fantastic way to explore the region’s rich offerings. Whether you’re flying at sunrise or sunset, there’s plenty to see and do to make your visit truly memorable.

Cotswold village
Cotswold village | WonderDays

Morning Itinerary

If you're taking an early morning flight, treat yourself to a delicious breakfast after your adventure at one of these highly-rated local cafés:

The Bakery on the Water, Bourton-on-the-Water: This delightful café is known for its freshly baked pastries, artisan bread, and excellent coffee. Perfect for a post-flight treat.
Opening times: 8:00 am

The Coffee Dispensary, Cheltenham: A cosy café offering a range of hearty breakfast options made with locally sourced ingredients.
Opening times: 9:00 am (Monday–Saturday), 10:00 am (Sunday)

The Old Prison, Northleach: A unique and historic spot offering a variety of breakfast options, from traditional English breakfasts to lighter choices.
Opening times: 9:00 am

After your flight and breakfast, explore some of the Cotswolds' top attractions:

Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens: Located near Burford, this park offers a fantastic day out for families and nature enthusiasts. Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens and see a variety of exotic animals.

Sudeley Castle and Gardens: Visit the historic home of Katherine Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII. The castle and gardens are stunning, and there's a fascinating exhibition about the castle's history.

Blenheim Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this magnificent palace offers beautiful grounds to explore, a rich history and stunning architecture.

Afternoon Itinerary

For those flying at sunset, spend your afternoon discovering the charm of the Cotswolds before your flight:

Broadway Tower: This iconic tower offers breathtaking views of the Cotswolds countryside. It's the perfect spot for a scenic walk with some great photo opportunities.

Chipping Campden: Explore this historic market town, known for its beautiful high street lined with traditional Cotswold stone buildings. There are plenty of quaint shops and tea rooms to enjoy.

Chedworth Roman Villa: Step back in time and explore one of the best-preserved Roman villas in Britain. The site includes impressive mosaics and a fascinating museum.

Chipping Campden, Cotswolds
Chipping Campden, Cotswolds | Canva

Evening Relaxation

If your sunset flight leaves you hungry for more exploration, consider dining at one of the Cotswolds’ cosy pubs or restaurants. Many offer locally sourced food and stunning views, making for a perfect end to your day.

Local Pubs: Try The Wild Rabbit in Kingham or The Bell at Sapperton for a hearty meal and a welcoming atmosphere.

Fine Dining: For a more upscale experience, book a table at The Feathered Nest Inn in Nether Westcote. This renowned restaurant offers an exquisite menu with locally sourced ingredients and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

No matter how you choose to spend your day, the Cotswolds offers an array of activities and sights to complement your hot air balloon adventure.

Your Cotswolds Adventure Awaits

The Cotswolds, with its sweeping views, rich history and picture-perfect villages, is the perfect place for a hot air balloon adventure.

Glide over the rolling landscapes of Shipston-on-Stour, take in the mediaeval charm of Tewkesbury Abbey or admire Cheltenham’s elegant Regency architecture. Every flight offers its own unique perspective and breathtaking scenery.

Ready to embark on your own Cotswold adventure? Book your flight with Virgin Balloon Flights today and join our Virgin Hot Air Balloon Flight Facebook Group to see the amazing experiences shared by fellow passengers.

There’s nothing quite like the mix of thrill and tranquillity on a hot air balloon ride over the Cotswolds. From the moment you lift off to the gentle landing, every second is filled with wonder. We’re ready to welcome you aboard and help you create memories you’ll treasure forever.

Let’s make your next adventure sky-high as you take life higher!

Related Posts

Get your stamps ready, these flights are worth writing home about