Delight in the architecture of Oxford from above

Hot air balloon rides in Oxfordshire are particularly popular, not only because the Oxfordshire countryside is breathtaking, thanks to places like the Cotswold Wildlife Park, Shotover Country Park, and the rolling hills of the Oxfordshire countryside, but also because Oxford is home to some of the most stunning examples of architecture in the country, if not the world. If you are interested in architecture, and you want to explore all that Oxford has to offer, taking a hot air balloon ride in Oxfordshire is the perfect way to explore the buildings that have led to Oxford being dubbed The City of Dreaming Spires. Here is just a sample of the fabulous architecture you can see on a hot air balloon flight over Oxford:

St George's Tower

This 11th century tower is a prime example of early stone military architecture. Measuring four storeys high, with walls made of thick Oxfordshire ragstone, the tower has an imposing presence, which can be seen at every angle from the vantage point of a hot air balloon.

Christ Church Cathedral

It is fair to say that English cathedrals have some of the best architectural features of any buildings in the world and Christ Church Cathedral is no exception. Floating over this 12th century building will be a veritable feast for the eyes. Originally a nunnery, the cathedral is composed primarily of Norman design, which was added to the building at a later date. The cathedral is the first of Oxford’s dreaming spires and a landmark not to be missed.

Church of St Mary the Virgin

This building has elements of 14th and 15th century architecture, but it is its 14th century Gothic spire that really steals the show. The benefit of viewing the exquisitely decorated spire from above is that you can get a 360 degree view of it, and you can see the elegant design in much more detail than from the ground.