Essex sight-seeing via hot air balloon

Essex might not be the first place you think of when it comes to planning a hot air balloon ride in the UK, but it is actually a very popular destination for balloon flights. There are a number of interesting sights you can see when you take off from one of the many balloon launch sites in the county. Whether you are a first time visitor to Essex or a local, you will see things you never expected when you choose to take an early morning hot air balloon ride over the county which was once home to the famous highwayman Dick Turpin.

Things to look out for

What you will see on your hot air balloon ride through Essex will depend a lot on which way the wind decides to take you, but here are some of the things you should definitely look out for when you take your trip:

John Webb Windmill

Essex is populated with a lot of windmills which always look very impressive from above, but there is one windmill in particular you should look out for because it was built by John Webb, a local landowner and farmer. This windmill is located in Thaxted and is considered by many to be an architectural masterpiece.

Audley End House

Audley End House is a large country house which was built in the 17th century. If you thought it looked impressive from ground level, you will be absolutely blown away by its magnificence when you float past it in your hot air balloon.

Norsey Wood Nature Reserve

If you are a nature lover, you should cross your fingers for a flight over this fabulous hub of natural life. Made up of ancient woodland, you are sure to see some beautiful old trees, as well as any number of woodland animals in their natural habitat.