Seven of the best places to watch the balloon fiesta

The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta returns 8-10 August

Bristol's skyline will soon be transformed into a picture-perfect display as more than 100 hot air balloons ascend above the city.

The annual Bristol International Balloon Fiesta attracts 500,000 to the three-day event.

While the main arena is in Ashton Court Estate, there are plenty of spots to enjoy the spectacle, with our hilly city boasting dozens of panoramic vistas.

We've compiled a list of some of the best places to watch the balloons when the festival returns between 8-10 August - providing the weather conditions play ball.

Ashton Court Estate

The balloons take off from Ashton Court Estate

Beginning with an obvious one, the best place to watch the spectacle is from the rolling hills of Ashton Court Estate, just outside the city's boundaries.

This location homes the event's main arena, based in the west of the city. It is where the balloons take off for the mass ascents and where the world-famous Nightglow will be staged.

Mass ascents are scheduled to take place at dusk and dawn, with the first one planned at 06:00 BST on 8 August.

Clifton Observatory

This historic windmill offers high, clear views of Clifton Suspension Bridge

Another popular choice, this historic windmill located to the west of the city offers high, clear views of Clifton Suspension Bridge, Avon Gorge and Ashton Court Estate.

It is one of many great spots for photographers hoping to capture the balloons against the iconic backdrop.

Capturing the balloons and the bridge in one photogenic nutshell, the observatory is every Bristolian photographers dream.

Bristol Harbourside

The balloons were tethered on the Harbourside in 2023 ahead of the fiesta

Many people like to wait by the city's harbourside to watch the balloons float above the water.

With the city's iconic rainbow buildings in the distance, plus boats on the water, this spot makes for a great photo.

All the bars and restaurants alongside the harbour also offer a place to sit and relax at the same time.

Perretts Park

Perrett Park near Knowle is a popular spot

While this location is based slightly outside of the city centre on the Totterdown/Knowle border, Perrett Park still attracts big crowds, especially in hot weather.

The sloping hill boasts stunning views of the city, and is the perfect location for families who like to enjoy a picnic and some space while watching the balloons.

Brandon Hill

Brandon Hill is the oldest park in Bristol and boasts panoramic views of the city

Brandon Hill is the oldest park in Bristol and is home to another of the city's famous landmarks, Cabot Tower.

This lookout, based at the top of Park Street, offers panoramic views of Bristol, looking across the city centre and over towards Ashton Court.

It has become one of the most popular places for balloon spotters, with its informal gardens and flowing stream adding a touch of serenity to the bustling weekend.

Depending on the wind direction, scores of hot-air balloons may fly almost directly overhead on their way towards the harbourside.

Dundry hill

The rolling hilltop stretches for two miles

If you're looking for more picturesque vistas of the countryside, plenty of people head a little outside of the city towards to Dundry Hill, near Bristol Airport.

Located 15 minutes south of Bristol, the rolling hilltop stretches for two miles east to west, and offers a serene escape from the city with sweeping views of green pastures and charming country lanes.

Reaching heights of up to 160m (525ft), it's the perfect location to see hot-air balloons as they drift up and away from the city, with uninterrupted views of the skyline.

Troopers Hill

This spot offers nice views and often has a festival atmosphere

Based 15 minutes outside of the city centre, this nature reserves boasts stunning views of the east of Bristol.

Depending on the winds, this spot often sees a large majority of the balloons flyby.

In recent years, big crowds have gathered, with people playing music and creating a festival atmosphere.