With summer weather meaning clear, sunny days (for the most part) it is well and truly balloon season. And, in a week's time, hundreds of them will be filling the skies above Bristol as part of the 44th year of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.
Although you can't beat heading to Ashton Court and watching them rise from inflation to take off, there are some places in Bristol that provide stunning views across the city - even if there aren't any balloons in the sky. It's worth checking the weather forecast before you venture out though, as wind and rain will mean balloons won't fly - and your day out could turn into a bit of a dampener.
What's more, checking wind direction will make sure you have at least a small idea of where the balloons will be travelling - if you're not seeing them from as close to Ashton Court as possible, that is.
Read more: Bristol Balloon Fiesta: Take to the skies in a hot air balloon - but it will cost you £600
Clifton Downs
Not only are Clifton Downs a perfect spot for a picnic, they also offer great views across Avon Gorge and the Clifton Suspension Bridge which, during the Balloon Fiesta, is usually closed. It's the ultimate picture that even many Bristolians themselves have failed to capture - the iconic shot of the bridge under a sky filled with hot air balloons.
Bedminster Down
If you want a high vantage point that isn't too far away from the fiesta site itself, then Bedminster Down is on the list.
Dundry Hill
Dundry Hill is a great spot for balloon spotting as, not only can you spot balloons taking off in Bristol, throughout the year many balloon flights ascend from fields across Somerset and Bath, too. Sitting just south of Bristol - and stretching across Bristol, North Somerset and Bath and North East Somerset - you get the best of both world, though (at 732ft) it's in fact the highest point for us Bristolians.
The village of Dundry sits near the summit of the hill - so you could perch up high near the church and do a bit of balloon spotting. And, if there are no balloons in the air, the views at different points of the hill are still as magical.
Brandon Hill
It's probably fair to say that every Bristolian will have traipsed up Brandon Hill at least once in their lifetime. At the summit is, of course, the iconic Cabot Tower which provides those fit enough to climb to the top with stunning views out across the city. Though, just reaching the top of the hill is a treat in itself as you still get some pretty epic views - and there's even a steep park (Brandon Hill Park) to make the climb a bit easier.
Divided into informal gardens, a small nature reserve and open grassland, even if there's not much going on in the skies above you, it's a great spot for a picnic with loved ones in the sunshine.
Clifton Observatory
Another spot with perfect views out over the suspension bridge and Avon Gorge, Clifton Observatory boasts outdoor benches, grassland for picnics and both a takeaway and eat in 360 degree cafe and rooftop - perfect for chilling out and spotting some balloons.
What's more, the cafe offers a variety of locally-sourced refreshments, including their speciality hot chocolates - delicious no matter what the weather.
Leigh Woods
Yet another option if the suspension bridge is closed, Leigh Woods is close to the famous landmark, as well as Ashton Court Estate - where the balloons ascend from the fiesta. A National Trust site, you just know it's going to be filled with stunning views and scenery, as well as plenty of peace away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Stoke Park Estate
If the balloons feel that way inclined, or you fancy sitting among 108 hectares of parkland, next to the famous yellow Dower House, then Stoke Park Estate is another perfect spot. Whether it be a gentle stroll, walking the dog or taking some time to relax and unwind, even its location alongside the M32 won't be able to put you off.
And you never know, you may just see a balloon crew or two driving by.
Perrett Park
Located on the Totterdown/Knowle border, Perrett Park is mostly open grassland on a steep sloping hill, which acts as somewhat of a natural amphitheatre. There are picturesque rose beds, shrubberies, paved walkways and benches to enjoy, as well as idyllic views to the north and west.
Ashton Court Estate
Of course, we couldn't miss this one off the list. The home of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, Ashton Court Estate welcomes hundreds of thousands of people to the event every year, puts on seven mass ascents across the weekend, as well as tethering balloons, air displays and two night glow and firework displays, too.
Whether you're a fan of the early morning take off or the evening ascents, getting up close to the balloons and watching them float away on their journeys is definitely best enjoyed right here at the fiesta. It's still a free event and we in Bristol are very lucky to have it on our doorstep.
You can find out more about the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta here.
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