Wellington (Back-Up Site)

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

Sampford Moor, Wellington
Somerset
TA21 9QL

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Wellington (Back-Up Site)

About

Sampford Moor near Wellington is the back-up site for our main Tiverton and Taunton launch sites and your flight may be moved here on the day if the wind direction is not suitable to fly from the main sites.

Sitting in the spectacular Vale of Taunton Deane, between the Quantock and Blackdown Hills, the skyline is dominated by several impressive churches including that of St James, which towers over the Somerset County Cricket Club’s ground.

You may drift over beautiful Vivary Park, home of the annual Taunton Flower Shower, and Taunton Castle, which dates back as far as the Anglo Saxon times of 710.

The Bridgewater and Taunton Canal is a fantastic sight to see, as colourful barges wend their way along the waterway.

Whichever way the wind takes you, you’ll find some of the most quintessentially English countryside passing below the basket on one of our unforgettable hot air balloon rides from Taunton in Somerset.

Soon after you launch from Wellington, the 175ft column built to honour the Iron Duke, Arthur Wellesley – the Duke of Wellington himself - will come into view.

To the east, the historic market town of Yeovil, Yeovil Country Park, and the unusual Barwick park follies beckon.

Directions

The launch site is close to the The Blue Ball Inn, nine miles southwest of Taunton. Please ensure that you use the postcode rather than the name, as there are several pubs called “Blue Ball Inn” around Taunton and if you select the wrong one in your sat nav, you may miss your flight.

From Junction 26 of the M5, take the exit signposted A38 Taunton. After just under a mile, at the first roundabout follow A38 signed-posted to Exeter. Drive down the A38 for 2.5 miles, heading south.

Turn left signposted Sampford Moor. After 1.25 miles you will pass the Blue Ball Inn on your left.

The launch site is then in the second field on the right hand side of the road. Please drive into the field and park against the hedge next to the road.

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Passenger Flight Information Line

Please call 01725 530190 to confirm the status of your flight.

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Your Pilot Will Be:

Steve Vining

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