Longleat got its new ‘Sky Safari’ hot air balloon event off to a flying start with a special preview early morning ascent today (Thursday, September 15th).
Eight balloons, led by the Wiltshire estate’s very own ‘flying lion’ along with a pair of penguin-shaped hot air balloons, took to the skies above Longleat House as a preview to the official event which runs from Friday, September 16th – Sunday, September 18th.
The Sky Safari, which is being supported by Exclusive Ballooning, is the latest in a year-long series of celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of Longleat Safari Park.
Over the three-day period a sky full of more than 50 hot air balloons in a variety of shapes and sizes will be making a series of mass ascents into the sky above the Wiltshire Estate between sunrise and sunset.
On Saturday, September 17th Longleat will also be lit up by a very special celebratory night glow event with the balloons firing up their burners to musical accompaniment.
As with all activities involving hot air balloons, elements of the festival will be weather dependant and are subject to change at short notice. Longleat is recommending visitors regularly check their website and social media posts for the latest information.
In addition to the early morning and dusk launches on Friday, Saturday and Sunday there will also be a series of tethered ascents taking place from 10am-midday and2pm-4pm on all three days.
The night glow event is due to take place from 7.30pm – 8pm on the Saturday.
Sky Safari – Sept 16th-18th at Longleat, Warminster, Wilts BA12 7NW. Admission to the event is free with a valid day ticket, however advance online booking is recommended as it is likely to prove very popular. Visit www.longleat.co.uk/whats-on/