Ballooning in Yorkshire FAQ

When do you fly?

Our hot air balloon flights take place from April to September everyday in the early evening,( subject to the weather being suitable).We also fly mornings at weekends.

Where do you fly from?

We fly from our own launch site near the village of Arkendale, near Knaresborough in North Yorkshire. We are 5 minutes from junction 48 on the A1.

When is the best month to fly?

Every flight offers a unique experience and every month of our flying season can be recommended. April and May offer you a view of the blossoming countryside with the bright greens of new spring growth and the vibrant yellows of fields of rape seed. The summer months offer a view of a lush landscape, with trees in full leaf and the warm colour of the summer harvest. The autumn months often offer a golden light quality and the autumnal tones in the landscape beneath you.

How far do we fly?

We travel at the same speed as the wind. As the hot air balloon can only safely be inflated and flown in winds below 10 mph, our average distance is usually 7-10 miles "as the crow flies".

How high do we go?

We usually fly at an altitude of between 500 -1000 feet, but on occasions we may climb to an altitude of 5000 feet - around a mile high!

Do we fly back?

The balloon travels with the wind and it is not possible to steer it, so this makes it impossible to make a round trip. After an hour's flight, the balloon will land in a suitable field and you will be collected and transported back to the launch site by road.

What should I wear?

It is not cold in the hot air balloon, so you do not need to wear extra layers. We recommend that you wear casual clothes; such as those you would wear if going for a walk. Long trousers, long sleeves in natural fibres and sensible shoes or boots, without a heel. You should also bring along a hat to protect your head from the radiant heat from the burners.

Can I bring a camera?

Yes, you will be able to take many wonderful pictures to capture your experience. Please make sure you can stow away your camera for landing.

Do you have an upper or lower age limit?

We have a lower age limit of eight years and passengers must be at least 4 feet 6 inches tall. Children under the age of sixteen will not be carried unless accompanied by an adult. We do not have an upper age limit, but passengers must be medically fit to fly.

Can family and friends watch?

Family and friends are very welcome to come and watch you take off and take photos. We recommend that they do not follow the hot air balloon or enter a landowner's property. There are a couple of local pubs/restaurants, which offer hospitality whilst you have your balloon flight. Friends and family can meet up with you after your flight at the launch site while you sip your glass of chilled champagne.

Book a hot air balloon flight and treat yourself to the experience of a lifetime. Or purchase one of our gift vouchers for someone special.