Braintree

Alternative Launch Site

This is an alternative location for our main bookable launch sites. For bookable launch sites, see suggestions below or search all locations.

Launch Site Address

Blake House Craft Centre, Blake End
Rayne, Braintree
Essex
CM77 6RA

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Braintree Hot Air Balloon Ride

Fun & Interesting Facts

The oldest timber-framed barn in the world can be found at Cressing Temple, near Braintree and was built by the Knights Templar around 1206. It stands alongside a more ‘recent’ barn, built in 1256.

About

Breath-taking views of the stunning south east of England wait when you take to the skies for an unforgettable Essex hot air balloon ride.

Experience a picturesque panorama of rolling fields, dotted here and there with the iconic windmills for which the county is known.

Whichever way the wind takes you, you will drift majestically over incredible landscapes stretching out to the horizon.

Your balloon flight experience of a lifetime starts from just outside Braintree, with views of the town almost guaranteed as you take flight.

To the east lie the vast and beautiful gardens of the Marks Hall Estate, while to the south is Great Notley Country Park.

Nothing compares to the incredible feeling and memories you get when you go up, up and away in our beautiful big red Essex hot air balloon.

Directions

Blake House Craft Centre is situated approximately three miles to the Stansted side of Braintree, well sign posted off of the A120 with brown tourist signs.
If the gates are closed, please wait in small un-gated car park, otherwise proceed straight through the gates and straight through the farmyard.
The launch field will be found on your left, park against the fence.

Coming from the Braintree direction using the A120: Take the Felsted B1417 and Stebbing (B1256) exit approximately 2.5 miles from the A131 interchange, then follow the brown tourist signs over the A120 the Craft Centre.

Coming from the M11 and Stansted direction: At Great Dunmow, take the old A120 (now B1256) for about 4 miles and turn left at the Palm Trees restaurant (previously known as The Saling Oak) in the direction Great Saling. You will find the Craft Centre half a mile down on the right hand side.

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Passenger Flight Information Line

Please call 01376 317027 to confirm the status of your flight.

Hints & Tips:

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Your Pilot Will Be:

William Wood

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