subject: Balloon Tours Across Yorkshire [print this page] From lively cities to quaint countryside, Yorkshire is the UKs largest county and presents a diverse landscape, from rolling countryside and scenic gardens to historical monuments and bustling towns. A hot air balloon ride over Yorkshire provides the perfect opportunity to view this unique county from a completely new perspective, or more specifically from anything up to 5,000 feet.
At the north of the county, nestled in the heart of the Three Peaks of the Yorkshire Dales is the quaint village of Horton in Ribblesdale. The village itself is dominated by the mountains, providing a dramatic setting to begin your balloon adventure. In addition to the scenic green countryside you may also be lucky enough to spot the scars and potholes of the limestone grassland at Southerscales nature reserve. Another worthy spot from the balloon basket is the 24 arched Ribblehead viaduct, which carries the world famous Settle to Carlisle railway line across the picturesque valley.
To the east of Horton in Ribblesdale lies one of Yorkshires most iconic buildings, Ripley Castle. Steeped in history, this magnificent building is an ideal place to begin your sky-bound adventure,
immersed in scenic gardens, you are bound to feel inspired by the majestic lakes and deer park.
Dependent on wind direction you may be blown across Harrogate, bursting with cosmopolitan charm, the Victorian spa town presents an intriguing mix of narrow passageways, quaint mews, and period architecture. Alternatively you may drift across the medieval market town of Knaresborough where the River Nidd dramatically sweeps through the beautiful gorge and surrounding countryside, or maybe you will marvel at the mysterious Devils Arrows, one of the least understood historical monuments in England.
Few cities boast the charm that York presents in abundance. Steeped in history and culture, the city is an ideal place to begin your balloon adventure. As you soar above the city you will be sure to spot some of the citys iconic buildings including the infamous York Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral north of the Alps, and Fairfax House, claimed to be the finest Georgian townhouse in England. You may even capture a glimpse of the Shambles - recently voted the most picturesque street in the UK. With many independent boutiques, vintage stores and charming tea rooms, York is well worth a visit post-flight.
As the city dwindles into the distance, you may spot some of the many gardens that contribute to Yorkshires scenic reputation including Breezy Knees gardens, packed with over 6,000 varieties of flowers, shrubs and trees, it is sure to make a colourful spot from the basket. Or maybe you will see the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Byland Abbey, an English Heritage site.
Another notable city is Leeds, often referred to as the gateway to Yorkshire it is an ideal place to commence your balloon adventure. With more listed buildings in Leeds than any other city outside of London, as well as a collection of fine contemporary buildings, you will be perfectly positioned to enjoy the illuminated and intriguing skyline. Sporting fans may also capture a glimpse of Headingley Stadium and Elland Road - home to Leeds United football club.
As the bustling city dwindles in to the distance you will find yourself immersed in the tranquil surroundings of the Temple Newsam Country Park. As one of the largest parks in Europe there are an array of splendid gardens including an Italiante garden and rhododendron walk which winds its way through expanses of lawn and broad beds of flowers to the lakes.
