Shuttleworth Estate in Bedfordshire to host balloon race as part of weekend extravaganza

Families and friends can book a plot to enjoy the fun - or perhaps you'd enjoy a balloon flight
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The biggest hot air balloons in the UK are coming to the Shuttleworth Estate this summer as it plays host to the Great Balloon Race.

Up to 50 balloons of all shapes and sizes will fill the skies across Bedfordshire and beyond before returning for a dazzling night glow display at dusk accompanied by the Ibiza Classics Orchestra.

The Great Balloon Race extravaganza, which will be at the estate for three nights across June 25-27, also features a sky dance from a 100ft crane by Incandescence plus a fireworks display.

The dazzling night glow display at dusk, which will be accompanied by the Ibiza Classics OrchestraThe dazzling night glow display at dusk, which will be accompanied by the Ibiza Classics Orchestra
The dazzling night glow display at dusk, which will be accompanied by the Ibiza Classics Orchestra

The event organisers have put in place socially-distanced measures from allocated plots, hand sanitiser stations, click and collect food and drinks service – via an event app - and additional toilet facilities.

Families and friends can book their plot – which accommodates up to six people. There are three options, standard, premium and VIP with prices ranging from £65 to £240.

A standard plot (£65) is 3.5m square; a premium plot (£120) is 5m square and includes a bench and is located nearer the show arena; or a VIP plot (£240) is 5m square and also includes a welcome drink, table service, a prime location by the arena, VIP parking and VIP toilet facilities.

For those with a head for heights, balloon flights are also available with prices starting from £325 for an individual on a shared flight, £950 for a couple and up to £1,650 for a party of six. More details on the website.

The Great Balloon RaceThe Great Balloon Race
The Great Balloon Race

Event director Adam Faulkner said: “It has been a year since our last show – and a hard year for everyone - so we have gone all out to make this a truly fantastic evening for families and friends to enjoy."

For more details of the event and to book a plot visit the Great Ballon Race website.