Formalities aside, it's then time to prepare the balloon. Inflation is one of the most exciting aspects of the ballooning experience. You may be invited to assist with the inflation but, if you prefer, you can stand back and watch in wonder as the colourful balloon billows as it fills and expands with air. Once everyone has climbed aboard and the balloon is fully inflated the pilot will complete the final checks.

The balloon will begin to gently rise as our voyage commences, nobody knows where they are going, and for once, it does not matter!! The basket seems almost stationery, the ground falling slowly away as the spectacle of the flight begins to unwind for you. From the air you will see towns and villages, woodlands, rivers, farms and fields, all laid out below like a decorative map. One moment you might be hovering just above the treetops, gently brushing over the leaves, minutes later you might be soaring aloft. While you drift on the breeze the ground crew will be having their own adventure - the challenge of anticipating your landing spot.