Hot Air Balloon Rides over Herefordshire
Herefordshire, set in the Marches, is one of the most beautifully un-spoilt counties in Britain. On a hot air balloon flight you will see a patchwork quilt of fields, meadows, and woodlands, broken only by rivers, footpaths and small country roads. Herefordshire is an agricultural county with fruit farming, cider, hops, grain, it’s own breed of unique Herefordshire cattle and of course common to any such undulating countryside - sheep.
The agricultural centre of the county is the historic market city of Hereford which straddles the River Wye. Well within a balloon flight distance south of Ross lie the remains of Goodrich Castle, an English Heritage attraction and one of many in the area.
Herefordshire itself doesn't currently have a balloon ride operator flying from within the county, although Virgin Balloon Flights does fly from several locations close to the border in Shropshire and Worcesteshire.
Ludlow hot air balloon rides take place from just north of Herefordshire and can offer views across the border into the county.
Shelsely Walsh is another Virgin Balloon Flights launch site to the east of the county, just over the border into Worcestershire.
North and East along the M50 nestling in the Malvern Hills is Eastnor Castle near the market town of Ledbury and the deer park of Eastnor Castle, over the Herefordshire borders into neighbouring Worcestershire. The castle was built in the early 1800’s in the style of the “Normal Revival” and designed to emulate a mediaeval fortress guarding the Welsh borders.
Here are some things to do in Herefordshire, UK:
Visit the Hereford Cathedral: This historic cathedral is known for its impressive architecture, including the famous Mappa Mundi and the Chained Library.
Explore the Forest of Dean: This ancient forest is a great spot for hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching.
Visit the Berrington Hall: This 18th-century country house offers a glimpse into the history of the region and the lives of the people who lived there.
Visit the Ledbury Heritage Centre and Museum: This museum offers a look at the history of the town and the surrounding area, including the market town's medieval history.
Visit the Eastnor Castle: This 19th-century castle offers a chance to see the history of the building and the surrounding area, as well as to explore the gardens and parkland.
Visit the Hereford Cider Museum: This museum offers a chance to learn about the history of cider making in the area, and to taste some of the local ciders.
Visit the Herefordshire Nature Trust: It offers a chance to learn about the wildlife and habitats of the area, as well as to take guided walks and other activities.
Visit the Herefordshire Raceway: It offers a chance to see car and bike racing, as well as other events.
Visit the Hereford Museum and Art Gallery: it offers a chance to learn about the history and culture of the area, as well as to see a variety of art and other exhibits.
Visit the Herefordshire Light Infantry Museum: it offers a chance to learn about the history of the regiment and the role of soldiers in the area.