Balloon Rides Usk & Wye Valleys

The Usk & Wye Valleys are an area of outstanding natural beauty situated on the borders of South Wales, Gloucestershire and Herefordshire. Our hot air balloon rides take off from various launch sites through the area.

Enjoy a "bird's-eye-view" of the Welsh Border countryside at it's best, with ancient castles and Offa's Dyke. Looking towards the east view the majestic Forest of Dean and the estuary of the river Severn may be seen stretching towards Gloucestershire. To the west of the hills and mountains of the Brecon Beacons form the horizon over which some of the most spectacular sunsets may be viewed towards the end of an evening's flight.

We select the launch site on the basis of the prevailing wind direction and weather patterns, these include:

Ballooning from Monmouth

We go ballooning from the banks of the Wye, located on the site of the Monmouth Showground, just outside the City walls and close to Agincourt Square with its Georgian Shire Hall and fine old coaching inns.

Ballooning over Raglan Castle

Undoubtedly the finest late Medieval Fortress Palace in Britain. Building commenced in the 1430's and features the yellow tower and moated strong hold with gun ports and double drawbridge. Built regardless of cost by Sir William Thomas and sumptuously embellished the castle became still more splendid under William Lord Herbert's Elizabethan descendants who added the Banqueting Hall and other apartments.

Balloon Rides from Tintern

Launching from a field adjacent the magnificent 12th century Tintern Abbey which was founded by Walter Dean Clare for the White Robe Cistercian monks. The Monks austere rule dictated that they settled in remote locations but the grandeur of the principal buildings were largely due to Roger Bigod, Lord of nearby Chepstow Castle.

The Abbey is an outstanding example of elaborate decorated style gothic architecture.

The unspoilt scenery has attracted visitors since the late 18th century. Artists like Turner sketched and painted here, Wordsworth drew inspiration from here and it is a stunning location to fly from when the wind direction and speed is suitable.