A towering scarecrow balloon standing 120 feet tall is set to make its first ever UK appearance at Longleat later this year, as the estate prepares for the return of its increasingly popular Icons of the Sky festival.
The giant character balloon, known as Smiley, will travel from the United States with pilot Jack Semler and his wife Lynn for the three-day event, which returns to the Wiltshire attraction from 11 to 13 September.
Joining it for a UK debut will be the rare Chateau Balleroy balloon, originally commissioned by publishing magnate Malcolm Forbes as part of his renowned collection of special-shape balloons inspired by countries he visited around the world.
Now in its third year, Icons of the Sky has quickly become one of Longleat’s flagship live events, combining mass hot air balloon ascents with aerial displays, pyrotechnics and evening entertainment.
Visitors can expect two balloon ascents each day, alongside tethered displays, aerobatic performances and a nightly glow show where illuminated balloons light up in time to music before a firework finale rounds off proceedings.
Returning favourites will also feature prominently, including Longleat’s own Adelaide and Simbaloo balloons, inspired by the estate’s koalas and lions, as well as Elii the Elephant.
Scott Ashman, Head of Operations at Longleat, said organisers were excited by the scale and variety planned for this year’s line-up.
“We’re incredibly excited for guests to experience the spectacle of Icons of the Sky once again,” he said. “The special-shape balloons always capture people’s imagination, and this year’s additions are particularly impressive.”
The event will also feature a strong aviation programme, with appearances from historic warbirds and aerobatic displays across the weekend. Among the highlights are expected appearances from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire Pair and the P51D Mustang Marniell.
Families attending will also be able to get up close to a number of tethered balloons, including a Thomas the Tank Engine character balloon expected to appeal to younger visitors.
As ever with ballooning events, all flights remain subject to weather conditions, although organisers say the packed programme ensures there will still be plenty to see throughout the weekend.
With giant balloons, vintage aircraft and fireworks all included within standard admission, Longleat appears set to once again turn the Wiltshire skyline into something rather extraordinary.
