Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
A sunrise ascent at the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.
What landmarks or icons come to your mind when you think of Bristol? Perhaps the Clifton Suspension Bridge? But what was in the sky above it? Hot air balloons have become an icon of Bristol thanks to manufacturing in the city and our annual balloon fiesta.
History
Bristol’s long association with hot air ballooning and manufacturing started in 1967, when Don Cameron made Europe’s first modern hot air balloon in Bristol. And just 4 years later, he founded Cameron Balloons which has manufactured hot air balloons of all shapes and sizes in Bristol ever since.
And it was ballooning pioneer Don Cameron who founded the Bristol Balloon Fiesta, when 22 balloons took to the sky in September 1979. In 2024 Bristol will host its 46th fiesta, and being of a similar age it’s something I’ve grown up with, but never taken for granted. For me and many Bristolians and visitors alike, a sky full of hot air balloons remains a spectacle that is still quite unique to our city.
When and where
Organisers usually schedule the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta for the second weekend of August each year. Check the official website for confirmation of dates for the next event. The event arena is at Bristol’s Ashton Court Estate. In the lead up to the fiesta weekend, there are often a couple of ascents from varying locations around the city to reward community heroes.
What to expect
1. The unexpected. Hot air balloons need very specific conditions to fly and there’s no guarantees with the British weather. Even a perfect looking, dry warm day might hide problems. The wind speed needs to be low, and the wind direction needs to be away from the Bristol Channel. And that’s not mentioning the invisible air currents in the atmosphere. Surprisingly even the ground temperature can create warm thermals which can be dangerous for balloonists.
2. Early starts. The first ascent of the day is always scheduled for 6am. Early morning weather conditions and air currents are usually calm and cool, perfect for balloon flights. Thankfully the fiesta site has plenty of food and drink stalls for the much-needed coffee and breakfast.
3. Afternoon activities and evening ascents. If early starts aren’t your thing, head to the fiesta site during the day to see activities like balloon inflation races, stunt displays, model aircraft and special shaped balloons tethering. The programme is different every year. At around 6pm, flight directors will decide whether conditions are safe for an evening mass ascent.
4. Night glows. The fiesta usually includes 2 of these, which start at around 9pm. A selection of tethered balloons illuminate by pilots using their burners in time to a unique Bristol soundtrack.
Viewing points
There are several places around Bristol that may offer a good view if the wind direction is favourable. These are just a few of my suggestions.
Fiesta site at Ashton Court
This is the only place you are guaranteed to see balloons. Hot air balloons are at the mercy of wind direction, so if you are anywhere else in the city, you are taking a chance. And if the weather doesn’t permit flying, balloonists will always endeavour to inflate and tether in the arena. By visiting the fiesta site, you are also supporting Bristol. This free non-profit event supports local suppliers and business and includes market stalls, food and drink, funfair and live music. Help boost the local economy!
Clifton Observatory
The view from the observatory across the Avon Gorge faces Ashton Court, and you may get that iconic sight of hot air balloons over the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Also perfect for a post-ascent visit to the cafes of Clifton.
Brandon Hill
Close to the centre of Bristol, Brandon Hill is a popular picnic spot and has panoramic views across the south of the city, Perfect if balloons are floating in a south easterly direction from Ashton Court.
Harbourside
This is good location if the wind direction is favourable. It doesn’t get much better than watching balloons floating over the harbour and Bristol landmarks such as the SS Great Britain.
Troopers Hill
This public space in St George has panoramic views over Bristol and is perfect if the wind direction is easterly.
Victoria Park
One of Bristol’s largest parks that borders Totterdown and Bedminster, Victoria Park offers some limited views of the city but is a good spot if the wind brings the balloons south of the city centre.
Perrett’s Park
This Knowle park is popular with local residents and may be very busy, as its slopes are perfect to sit with a view towards Ashton Court
Dundry
You will find a great view of the city skyline from hilltops of Dundry, just outside of Bristol.
Tips for photography
See some of my photography and tips on the BBC website:
Bristol Balloon Fiesta: How to take a good photo - BBC News
Shop
See my eBay store for Bristol and balloon themed cards and prints.