Carstairs Nr Lanark (Back-Up)

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

Monteith House, Avenue Road
Carstairs
Lanark
ML11 8QP

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Carstairs Nr Lanark (Back-Up)

About

One of our Scotland back-up sites, your flight may be moved to Carstairs on the day.

The grounds of this beautiful country house, built by the Glasgow architect William Burn between 1820 and 1823 for Henry Monteith MP, make a stunning backdrop for the launch of your Virgin Hot Air Balloon ride.

Just a few miles from Glasglow, you will likely see the impressive city in the distance as you drift up over the Lanarkshire countryside.

Although the wind is hard to predict in this area, you’ll likely see views of the moorland village of Carnwath, set in rolling countryside with views to the Pentland Hills.

To the south, you may catch a glimpse of the romantic 800-year-old Shieldhill Castle and if you drift over Biggar, known as Museum Town, you may be able to support some of its six fascinating historic museums, such as Moat Park Heritage Centre.

Drifting west, you may see the town of Carluke, which sits on a high plateau overlooking the River Clyde. In the heart of Lanarkshire’s fruit growing area, one of the town’s biggest employers is the jam company Renshaw Scott.

If the wind takes you nearer Glasgow to Langside, you will see the site of the defeat of Mary Queen of Scots forces in 1568 or you may find yourself floating as far as the picturesque Stonehill Wood to the south or Cobbinshaw Reservoir to the north. The 310 acre area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is popular with wildfowl.

Wherever your hot air balloon ride takes you, you will experience a rich and diverse landscape in all directions.

When your feet are back on the ground, why not take the time to explore the nearby countryside, where there are a variety of woods from Limewalk wood to Westwalk Wood and Junction Avenue Wood?


Directions

Carstairs is approximately 3 Miles west of Carnwath and 4 miles east of Lanark on the A70

At Carstairs turn into West View then first right into Avenue road, follow road under railway bridge, stay on this track it will take you to Monteith House.

This is the preferred route to the house, the other road from Carstairs Junction is not really suitable for most vehicles.

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Passenger Flight Information Line

Please call 01270 446646 to confirm the status of your flight.

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Your Pilot Will Be:

Graeme Houston

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