Adventure Balloons
Adventure Balloons
4
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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Adventure Balloons
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.0
428 reviews
Excellent
291
Very good
44
Average
11
Poor
14
Terrible
68
aniabierka
Oxford, UK16 contributions
Sept 2021 • Solo
It was my life dream to have hot air baloon flight as in 80 days around the world movie. It happened in Oxford last evening as my birthday gift. Justin and Bill were amazing coordinators who shared some knowledge and engaged the participants in packing and unpacking the balloon. Whole experience was very smooth, relaxing and I felt like in the movie. Flight was very pleasant offering amazing views of West Oxfordshire. Highly recommend.
Written 13 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Ania, so pleased to hear the flight lived up to your expectations. We will forward your great review onto Justin and Bill. Thanks for recommending us.
Written 20 October 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Emily S
4 contributions
May 2022 • Couples
We had an amazing experience yesterday flying with Justin and his crew, from Tring to Stone. It was both our first time in a hot air balloon (and even though I'm not always the best with heights) we enjoyed every minute of it. I couldn't have wished for a better experience. My partner bought this for my birthday over 2 years ago and it was delayed due to covid. Even though the voucher was only for a year, the company were very helpful and extended the voucher to allow for flights to reopen again and make sure it gave us enough time to book during the flying months when everything reopened. Communication by email was good and we had no problems with this. We felt safe and looked after on the flight, and kept well informed of what to do etc. I've seen on here some reviews about many cancelled bookings but that's the nature of this experience, and people should understand that when booking, you have to be flexible. We only had 1 cancelled flight and the next flight we booked in the same month, May 2022, went ahead.
Written 9 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JoshArnold1
Portsmouth, UK212 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
After 14 failed attempts due to weather, it was 15th time lucky this morning! We were treated to a perfect sunny morning over Hampshire and Surrey with incredible views over Hook, Farnham and Farnborough. The pilot, Kim, and Steve were both super friendly and organised, and removed any nerves that we had pre-flight. We were particularly impressed by Kim’s landing skills and we had heard of bad experiences from others! Can’t recommend this highly enough - Thanks so much Adventure Balloons; we’ll use you again!
Written 13 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cookies44
Hertfordshire, UK29 contributions
Aug 2022
We had an amazing balloon trip yesterday evening in Buckinghamshire. It was well organised and it was great to watch the balloon be prepared for flight. There was not much of a wind, so unfortunately we did not travel a huge distance but the views were amazing and and the weather and light perfect.
We felt in good hands and it was a good experience to be involved in helping to pack away the balloon when we landed an hour and a half later.
The experience was ended with champagne and orange juice if preferred. It was good to see that eco friendly cups were used. A nice touch.
A group photo was also available to buy if required.
Transport was organised to take us back to the start where our cars were parked.
Would be happy to use this Company again and the Pilot and his Colleague were helpful and friendly.
We felt in good hands and it was a good experience to be involved in helping to pack away the balloon when we landed an hour and a half later.
The experience was ended with champagne and orange juice if preferred. It was good to see that eco friendly cups were used. A nice touch.
A group photo was also available to buy if required.
Transport was organised to take us back to the start where our cars were parked.
Would be happy to use this Company again and the Pilot and his Colleague were helpful and friendly.
Written 28 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
NMorris81
Watford, UK3 contributions
Aug 2021
After a long wait due to Covid, we managed to get our balloon ride yesterday and it was amazing. Bill & Justin were fantastic and looked after everyone expertly. I would highly recommend this company to anyone who is thinking about booking a balloon ride
Written 12 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello, thanks for your review, great to hear it was worth the wait!
Written 20 October 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MandyABG
Portsmouth, UK33 contributions
Aug 2022 • Family
Adventure balloons
Yesterday we had a completey amazing experience on our balloon fligt across Hampshire. The ground staff were very nice, the best being Steve the ex fireman. He was very reassuring with me , as I was a bit nervous, especially the way I had to enter the basket, I had to shuffle in on my back while the basket was on its side. This should be highlighted when you book so you can be prepared for that.
Unfortunately my family was a 10 minutes late getting to the field in hartney Whitney, as we travelled up from Portsmouth, and the venue wasn't signed up very well. Some sinage would be a good idea. There's just a small dirty sign on the entrance gate , The pilot was shouty and demanding throughout the flight. He needs to sort his people skills if he's going to offer a great experience. We were told to stop talking at several points. The landing was very frightening. As we landed, the basket tipped over and we were dragged sideways across the field, bouncing of the ground several times. It was terrifying. I had my granddaughter & 11 year old great grandson with me & we were all midly injured in some way. We all had to crawl out of the basket and were very shaken. The pilot was shouting at us and could have handled the situation better. This was a champagne & fruit flight but we had no fruit and a tiny drop of champagne in a large plastic glass. Bit of a let down as the whole experience is not cheap. We then waited over an hour for the mini bus to take us back to our relatives who had been waiting in a hot dry field with no facilities for over three hours. I'm glad I did it & like I said I did enjoy it but I doubt I would do it again 😕
Yesterday we had a completey amazing experience on our balloon fligt across Hampshire. The ground staff were very nice, the best being Steve the ex fireman. He was very reassuring with me , as I was a bit nervous, especially the way I had to enter the basket, I had to shuffle in on my back while the basket was on its side. This should be highlighted when you book so you can be prepared for that.
Unfortunately my family was a 10 minutes late getting to the field in hartney Whitney, as we travelled up from Portsmouth, and the venue wasn't signed up very well. Some sinage would be a good idea. There's just a small dirty sign on the entrance gate , The pilot was shouty and demanding throughout the flight. He needs to sort his people skills if he's going to offer a great experience. We were told to stop talking at several points. The landing was very frightening. As we landed, the basket tipped over and we were dragged sideways across the field, bouncing of the ground several times. It was terrifying. I had my granddaughter & 11 year old great grandson with me & we were all midly injured in some way. We all had to crawl out of the basket and were very shaken. The pilot was shouting at us and could have handled the situation better. This was a champagne & fruit flight but we had no fruit and a tiny drop of champagne in a large plastic glass. Bit of a let down as the whole experience is not cheap. We then waited over an hour for the mini bus to take us back to our relatives who had been waiting in a hot dry field with no facilities for over three hours. I'm glad I did it & like I said I did enjoy it but I doubt I would do it again 😕
Written 11 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Christine and family, thank you for your comments, it seems overall you enjoyed your flight and we have received a couple of emails from you in the last few days saying: ‘’I am writing to say , the balloon flight we had on 10th aug, Wednesday, was amazing, really enjoyed it immensely’’. You also flew on your first attempt which is great. We would like to comment on some of the issues you have raised in your review. Your family were not 10 minutes late, they turned up so late that the pilot nearly told them they couldn’t fly because they missed all the passenger safety briefing. The pilot and crew went to the field at 5.15, pax meet was 5.45, all the other passengers were either on time or early and found the site no problem. Your family arrived at 6.08. With regards to getting into the basket before it was upright, on your arrival the pilot called you over, showed you the pre load position and made sure you were not at risk because of the late arrival. To preload is perfectly normal for passengers who the pilot thinks may have difficulty climbing into the 1.2 metre high balloon basket. There were two others on the other side of the basket who were also preloaded. In your map pack (instructions were emailed in February how to download a copy) you will find the following information: TAKE OFF & FLIGHT ''Your pilot will tell you when to enter the basket. Some passengers may be pre-loaded into the basket before the inflation begins.'' Your late arrival also meant you missed the part of the safety briefing where the pilot told passengers he would need silence on landing, as you were talking during the landing he asked you to be quiet. We landed at Lasham airfield, the landing was firm because the ground is dry and rock hard. Your map pack informs you: LANDING - ''Your pilot will advise when landing is likely and will instruct you to stow away all loose items such as cameras. All our large balloons (8 passenger or bigger) have seats for you to sit on for landing. Hold firmly with both hands to the inside handles and keep your head and upper body upright and supported by the padding behind it. Be prepared for the basket to bounce more than once, and lean over on its side and sometimes drag along the ground. Please pay attention to your pilot’s instructions at all times, especially during the landing. Your pilot may ask for silence during the landing.'' Passengers were able to use all the facilities at Lasham café and toilets, tables and parasols etc while we waited for the minibus, which was delayed by 30 minutes due to a serious road traffic accident on the A339 Alton to Basingstoke road. We kept the passengers informed at all times and the majority then used the café to have breakfast or a coffee.
Pre Covid we served Champagne in silver goblets, but since the pandemic to reduce the risk of transfer of Covid, we have used disposable cups which are compostable and made from plants, not plastic. They are made by Vegware. We also offer fruit juice, we do not say anywhere that we offer fruit.
We are not sure what facilities your relatives expected at the launchsite as it is just a field. Perhaps they could have gone to have a coffee or breakfast nearby while you were away.
Written 19 August 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
richyrich75
Oxford, United Kingdom67 contributions
May 2022
Absolutely brilliant, really beautiful and peaceful way to see the city of Oxford. Justin the pilot was great fun too. Worth the early start. We flew from North Oxford to just past Abingdon. I'm a little scared of heights but so glad I did this.
Do be warned though, I had booked about 20 flights that had been cancelled due to weather (obviously no one's fault) so be prepared for that. Several other people on the day had the same, but then some booked and went at their first booking. I am glad I persevered. The more flexible you can be with days you can fly the easier it will be, I could only really do weekends. .
Do be warned though, I had booked about 20 flights that had been cancelled due to weather (obviously no one's fault) so be prepared for that. Several other people on the day had the same, but then some booked and went at their first booking. I am glad I persevered. The more flexible you can be with days you can fly the easier it will be, I could only really do weekends. .
Written 31 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kahren G
6 contributions
May 2022 • Couples
What an amazing experience we have just had. Perfect conditions, lovely bunch of people and all made fantastic by our hosts, Richard and Ian.
We didn’t know what to expect with a hot air balloon ride and the experience was more than we had hoped for.
Would definitely recommend Adventure Balloons for an experience not to forget
Once again thank you to Richard and Ian
Thanks very much
Kahren and Stewart
We didn’t know what to expect with a hot air balloon ride and the experience was more than we had hoped for.
Would definitely recommend Adventure Balloons for an experience not to forget
Once again thank you to Richard and Ian
Thanks very much
Kahren and Stewart
Written 6 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Charlotte M
4 contributions
Aug 2022 • Friends
We were lucky enough to be able to fly on the first date booked Although did have to wait for about 90 minutes before the wind dropped enough- but worth it once we got going. Richard our pilot and Alex who drove after us on the ground on our Petworth flight were both really great. Couldn’t have asked for a better takeoff flight and landing!
It would be nice to have more information when booking on what to expect and how it actually all works.
It would be nice to have more information when booking on what to expect and how it actually all works.
Written 12 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kirsty L
Abingdon, England, United Kingdom7 contributions
Aug 2022 • Friends
I’ve just come back from my hot air balloon ride.
It was AMAZING!!
After 10 times booking the flight and having them cancel due to the weather, I am so pleased I’ve done it!! It was very well organised from the phone call the night before and the coach picking us up to take us back to the carpel afterwards.
It is so weather dependant it’s crazy but that isn’t the company’s fault obviously. Todays weather was perfect!!
Our pilot Justin was great and made us all comfortable and felt safe.
The driver of the trailer was lovely, unfortunately I didn’t get his name.
I would love to do it again soon! Definitely a must for everyone.
Just be aware that a flight can be cancelled a few hours before because of the weather, which of course is unpredictable at times and I did have to extend the voucher but is was SO worth the wait and money. Thank you Adventure balloons xx
It was AMAZING!!
After 10 times booking the flight and having them cancel due to the weather, I am so pleased I’ve done it!! It was very well organised from the phone call the night before and the coach picking us up to take us back to the carpel afterwards.
It is so weather dependant it’s crazy but that isn’t the company’s fault obviously. Todays weather was perfect!!
Our pilot Justin was great and made us all comfortable and felt safe.
The driver of the trailer was lovely, unfortunately I didn’t get his name.
I would love to do it again soon! Definitely a must for everyone.
Just be aware that a flight can be cancelled a few hours before because of the weather, which of course is unpredictable at times and I did have to extend the voucher but is was SO worth the wait and money. Thank you Adventure balloons xx
Written 14 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Kirsty, thank you for your great review. You have been very patient waiting for the right weather conditions and we are so pleased you feel your flight experience was worth the wait.We hope we see you again one day.
Written 19 August 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The website states Adventure Balloons broadband is currently not working so there are problems with customers cant rescheduled flights. They need to extend all customers vouchers before the system allows them to re schedule due to covid delaying bookings. The news they put out was Friday the 14th May. They said customers would be able to re schedule their dates on the website by the end of next week. We are advised not to phone or email at this time. It would be reassuring if a representative could give us an update here. Is anybody there?
Written 15 May 2021
Does anybody know if this company is still in operation? I've emailed them back in summer 2020 and didn't hear back. Many companies have gone bust with covid 19 - I wonder if this one has too?
-Katherine
Written 15 March 2021
If anybody's looking, I got an answer and they're still in business.
Written 15 March 2021
Hi Stifani, Adventure Balloons claim you did fly eventually, is this true? Can you tell me more about your experience with them? Gareth
Written 2 October 2017
no i didnt fly with them. My research led me to believe there was almost 0% chance i would fly with them and i was not prepared to give them another £80 and take several days off. Really nasty company to deal with please avoid
Written 2 October 2017
How many flights do you schedule a year, and how many of those flight actually happen?
Written 21 June 2017
Silence speaks volumes!!!!!! A hell of a lot would be my guess. Time to put pressure on Red Letter Days and all those other companies who sell Adventure Balloon vouchers to STOP. Have bought loads of vouchers from Red Letter days and have, without fail, always been really delighted with what has been offered, with the exception of Adventure Balloons.(Although this voucher was a gift!!) Not so much an ADVENTURE more a MYSTERY as to why Red Letter Days are risking their reputation by still selling vouchers!!!! Also a MYSTERY as to if my flight will ever happen. Am booked again next week, but have given up even caring if it will go ahead!!! Treat for my 50th birthday but I am now nearly 53, and what should have been a wonderful gift, is now reduced to when the F**K is this going to happen? How awful is that!!! Am only persisting with this so as not to disappoint the person who gave me the voucher. Flying in a balloon was a life long dream for me, which has become a bit of a nightmare!!! My wonderful gift, from a delightful and caring friend has turned out to be an expensive nightmare for both of us. I have had to up grade so I can "fly" on weekend, (or not fly on weekend as well as week days as it turns out!!!) Am booked to fly this coming weekend, so will post as to what happens!!!!
Written 8 August 2017
Why do you charge to extend vouchers when you offer so few flights and you keep cancelling?
Written 1 February 2017
We add a free extension if your flight has been cancelled by us at least 5 times during the validity period of the voucher. Please emaiil us and we can give you a full answer regarding extension fees. Without knowing the area you are referring to we cannot let you know how many flights we scheduled. Over all the areas we fly on some days last season we had 4 flights scheduled on each morning and evening. We can only go flying if the weather is suitable and it is disappointing for everyone if the weather conditions force us to cancel a flight.
Written 1 February 2017
Hi
Have tried calling your office a few times this week to make a booking. Often engaged and when not, no answer and the phone rings out. Concerned that our intended date may now have gone. Please advise.
Written 11 September 2015
Hi, our office is open 9-5, Monday to Friday (excl Bank Holidays). If you cannot speak to us during those hours, you can leave a message on our out of hours answer machine or send us an email. If you already have a voucher you can register to use the online flight date booking system which is available 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Written 15 September 2015
Hi there,
We have a flight booked in York today and can't find the weatherline anywhere! What are the chances you have a factsheet from your flight or even better, can help us with the number?
Please let me know!
Thanks
Written 29 August 2015
Hi, just wondering if you have any tips about maximising our chances of a successful booking - for example, when the dates are released for each month.
My son had a flight as 18th birthday gift and he's now 19 and a half and planning to leave the country (to travel, I hasten to add, not because he's had 9 flights cancelled)! Sadly coming to the conclusion the gift from his uncle will be wasted.
Due to work he can only fly on a Saturday on Tuesday from Henley or Bucks.
All advice gratefully received.
Written 28 June 2015
My dad had quite a few cancelled. It's par for the course with a weather dependent activity and we had no dispute. He had to be flexible, and the Terms allow for an extension as long as you have made enough efforts to take the gift. Flexibility is key here, and to persevere as much as possible. Hopefully with the improvement of weather over summer he will get to fly, because my dad has raved about how great it was since
Written 29 June 2015
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.