Hot Air Balloon Rides over London City
The first flight made by man in the UK was from London in a balloon. Taking off from the grounds of the Honourable Artillery Company near Moorgate, Italian Vincenzo Lunardi rose to the skies with around 200,000 people including the prince of Wales on 15th September 1784. His flight of 24 miles and 2 and a half hours duration was about twice as long as those covered today by passengers.
These days, a hot air balloon ride over London is almost impossible due to ever increasing airspace restrictions and regulations. The chances of a balloon flight meeting all the conditions to be able to go ahead are now so low, it isn't considered fair for any balloon operator to offer it.
Instead, Virgin Balloon Flights offers plenty of lovely locations around the edges of the capital itself, some of which can offer views of the iconic London skyline with the right wind direction and a very clear day.
London's sky line is a mix of old and very new. From St Paul's Cathedral to the nearly completed Olympics 2012 development the views on London hot air balloon rides span 300 years of architectural history and variety. Depending on the wind direction on the day aerial views can include Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, Canary Wharf and the Tower of London as well as the many suburban areas laid out by the Victorians.
Here are some things to do in London, UK:
Visit the British Museum: This museum offers a chance to learn about the history of human civilization, as well as to see a variety of artifacts and exhibits.
Visit the Tower of London: This historic castle offers a glimpse into the history of the area and the lives of the people who lived there, as well as the opportunity to explore the castle grounds and gardens.
Visit the National Gallery: This art museum offers a chance to see a variety of famous paintings and artworks from around the world.
Visit the Tate Modern: This art museum offers a chance to see a variety of modern and contemporary art from around the world.
Visit Buckingham Palace: This palace offers a chance to see the residence of the British monarch, as well as to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Visit the London Eye: This large Ferris wheel offers a chance to see a panoramic view of the city from above.
Visit the West End: This area offers a chance to see a variety of famous theaters and shows, as well as to shop and explore.
Visit the Camden Market: This market offers a chance to shop for a variety of goods, as well as to see street performers and explore the area.
Visit the Science Museum: This museum offers a chance to learn about science and technology, as well as to see a variety of exhibits and interactive displays.
Visit the Natural History Museum: This museum offers a chance to learn about natural history, as well as to see a variety of exhibits and specimens.