Hot Air Balloon Flights over Hertfordshire
On the 15th September 1784 Vincenzo Lunardi landed at Standon Green End in Hertfordshire when he became the first person to fly in the UK. His flight of around 2 and a half hours duration from the grounds of the Honourable Artillery in London took him 24 miles in the company of a dog, a cat and caged pigeon.
You can emulate Lunardi with Virgin Balloon Flights and their spectacular hot air balloon rides from Hatfield House, Berkhamsted and Knebworth Park. Pets and animals cannot however be taken on modern day Hertfordshire balloon rides!
A balloon flight from Hatfield House only became possible in 2019, when this beautiful county estate teamed up with Virgin Balloon Flights to bring views of its stunning property to their passengers.
Knebworth hot air balloon rides also offer stunning country park views.
Further east of the county, you can enjoy a Hertfordshire hot air balloon ride from near Berkhamsted and Tring, with superb views in all directions.
Here are some things to do in Hertfordshire, UK:
Visit St Albans Cathedral: This historic cathedral is known for its impressive architecture and its association with Saint Alban, the first martyr of Britain.
Explore Hatfield House: This historic house was once the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth I, and offers a glimpse into the history of the area and the lives of the people who lived there.
Visit Knebworth House: This historic house 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 Roman Theatre of Verulamium: This ancient theatre offers a glimpse into the history of the Roman city of Verulamium, which was once a major center of Roman life in Britain.
Visit the Natural History Museum at Tring: This museum offers a chance to learn about the natural history of the area, and to see a variety of animals and other exhibits.
Visit the Hertford Museum: This museum offers a chance to learn about the history of the town and the surrounding area, as well as to see a variety of artifacts and other exhibits.
Visit the Cassiobury Park: This park offers a chance to take a walk and enjoy the nature, it also offers a playground, mini golf, and a splash pad.
Visit the Warner Bros Harry Potter Studio Tour: This famous studio tour offers a chance to see the sets, costumes, and other elements of the Harry Potter films, as well as to learn about the making of the movies.
Visit the Ashridge Estate: It offers a chance to explore the beautiful countryside and gardens of this historic estate, as well as to take a walk and enjoy the nature.
Visit the Bovingdon Airfield: It offers a chance to see vintage and classic aircrafts, and to learn about the history of aviation.