Sometimes, we just want to escape and live like a bird flying through the blue skies, enjoying the breeze and the freedom of flying. If you're one of those people who would like to enjoy breath-taking scenery and discover new places from above, then read on because today we're here to tell you about one of the best aerial experiences you'll ever have: a hot air balloon flight in Somerset.

This county in the southwest of England is one of the most popular destinations for tourists, as it is home to the famous city of Bath and, of course, Glastonbury, a place known for its incredible music, food and art festivals. Not only that, but you will fall in love with its stunning valleys, rural towns and villages, just as Jane Austen did and captured in her literary works.

We want your experience in this county to be an unforgettable one, so we've put together a guide to everything you need to know before you fly here.

Where are the best places to do ballooning in Somerset?

• Bath: declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city has become one of the best places to do this activity in all of England. It is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK and during your flight over its skies you will be able to see the Roman remains, the landmark and historic buildings and even the famous baths fused with the picturesque landscapes that are so characteristic of Bath. And if you're lucky enough, you'll see Salisbury Plain in the distance or Stonehenge.

• Bristol: this city is home to the largest balloon event in Europe, making it the perfect destination for a ballooning event in the South West. Every year, thousands of people gather to watch the sunrise and sunset spectacle of more than 100 hot air balloons flying over Bristol and its surroundings - an incredible experience! During your balloon flight in this fine English city, you will have the best panoramic views of the county, see the Clifton Suspension Bridge and even one of the most famous sailing ships in the world, the SS Great Britain.

• Glastonbury: this town is famous for its many arts and music festivals. Thousands of people gather at different events, making it one of the most well-known places. Of course, you can't miss the opportunity to fly over Glastonbury. An experience in which you can see the famous Glastonbury Tor, the hill that is crowned by St. Michael's Tower. You'll also get a unique view of the Ham Wall and Greylakes Nature Reserves.

• Taunton: if you were thinking of enjoying this experience in this English town, we recommend you to do it at dawn, when you will be able to see the Taunton Deane Valley, between Quantock and Blackdown Hills, watching the fusion of dawn colours. Depending on the wind direction, you can also see the beautiful Vivary Park or Taunton Castle, which is over 1300 years old.

• Wincanton: if you want a flight with a more rural perspective, from this location you will have the best views of the small rural villages of the county, the Mendip Hills, Glastonbury and a look over the counties of Dorset and Devon. An experience you will never forget.

How long does this eperience last?

If you were thinking of enjoying this incredible activity, you may be wondering what it consists of and how long it will take you to do it. Well, it is an activity that lasts approximately one, to one and a half hours of flying, but it is a process that will take you about 4 hours in total.

When you arrive on the day of your flight, you'll be given a short briefing on the experience. You will then be shown how to inflate the balloon and then you will get in. Once you're in the basket, you'll sit up to light the flying artifact and feel yourself slowly ascend into the skies.

Trips do not have a fixed destination, as they depend on wind direction and weather conditions, so there is a team of professionals on the ground always tracking the trajectory of the hot air balloon. This way, when it is time to land, they will be waiting for you with everything ready for you to land successfully. When you land, you will get out of the basket to toast to the experience with champagne and you will be given a flight certificate, so you will never forget this incredible day! At the end, you will be taken in a 4x4 to the take-off point to end the activity.

When is the best time to go?

As you may already be aware, England has weather conditions that can vary greatly from one moment to the next. As an aerial activity, it is completely dependent on good flying conditions, so we recommend that you enjoy this experience during the summer months. Although you can do it at any time of the year, during this season there is less rain and fewer complications when it comes to flying. But, if on the day of your flight the weather conditions are not good and the flight is cancelled, don't worry! They will change the day of your flight to another day where you can enjoy it to the fullest.

What is the minimum age to fly?

This is an experience is suitable for almost anybody. If you want to enjoy a balloon ride with your family, please note that children must be a minimum of 7 years old and anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian.

What clothing do I need to wear for the ride?

It all depends on the time of year you are doing the activity, but it is important that you wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Ballooning takes place in the countryside, so dress comfortably and warmly as you'll be going up into the clouds.

What altitude do you reach?

As we mentioned already, this trips are constantly dependent on weather conditions, so you will be flying from approximately 150 to 1000 metres above sea level.

Now you know everything you need to make your next adventure perfect. Get yourself organised and get your friends, family or partner together for one of the best experiences of your life.