Bristol is one of the largest cities in the UK, and the most populous in Southern England outside of London. This community lies in the South West of the country, with the River Avon running through the heart of the city.
As one of the biggest cities in the area, many people are drawn to Bristol. It has many historical roots, with first references to the area being mentioned from around 1000AD. Since then, many historical landmarks have been created, from the city’s cathedral to Bristol Castle.
It’s not only the area’s natural beauty that draws people to the city and inspires them to take a hot air balloon ride. For example, the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is an annual event that takes place in the city every August. It brings ballooning enthusiasts from all over and treats them to a four-day extravaganza. It can be quite a spectacular occasion, with visitors able to witness mass ascents filling the Bristol sky with colourful characters.
It is events and festivals such as this one that inspires people to take to the skies of Bristol. This desire, when combined with the lovely surrounding areas, make hot air balloon rides very popular in this region. There are many wonderful things that can be seen from a different point of view, but what exactly will you be able to look at from above?
One of the most notable sights to see from a hot air balloon in Bristol is its harbour. This area covers 70 acres of space and was initially built in the 13th Century. The harbour has become more of a tourist attraction in recent years and is home to many museums, galleries, bars, and nightclubs. This means that the area is very picturesque and makes for great viewing from above, especially when the ferry boats are in action.
The Clifton Suspension Bridge was built in 1864 and crosses the River Avon, connecting Clifton, on the north side of Bristol, to Leigh Woods in North Somerset. The bridge is a grade I-listed building and has been the backdrop for many film and television programmes. It has even seen an Olympic torch relay pass over it in 2012. This structure can really be appreciated from above, as it is not that often that you get to see the top of a bridge. This setting also makes for a stunning photo opportunity.
Those who take to the skies of Bristol can be fortunate to spot many different landmarks across the city, including the Wills Memorial Building, Cabot Tower, St Mary Redcliffe’s harbour side church, and the remains of Bristol’s Norman castle. Bristol Cathedral has been one of the city’s most notable attractions since its establishment in 1140, and its iconic west front makes for spectacular viewing from a hot air balloon.
With annual ballooning events and picturesque surroundings, it is no wonder that people come from all over to Bristol to embark upon their very own hot air balloon flight.
