Part two of our special shape blog series talking about the greatest add-on special shapes to ever grace the skies. Some loved and recognisable characters in this second part, but which balloon will take the number one spot? Let’s find out!

Hot air balloons come in all shapes and sizes, but some designs go far beyond simple creativity; they push the boundaries of engineering. Among them, add-on special shapes stand out for their unique construction - built from a traditional teardrop “round” envelope but transformed with intricate appendages like arms, legs, or other larger, complex features. Some designs push the limits of what’s possible in balloon manufacturing, requiring expert craftsmanship and clever engineering to ensure they not only inflate properly but also remain stable in flight.

Today we helped our friends at Bristol Balloon Collectors inflate three of their old envelopes at Ashton Court; Auto Bild, Asda and G-BTWJ. Another two balloons also joined us in the park for a tether ahead of the 2025 flying season!

Following on from our three-part blog series named Ballooning Brilliance: The Greatest Special Shapes of All Time, we wanted to add another shorter post sharing our top 100 special shapes list with you all.

Welcome to Part 3 of our blog series celebrating the most extraordinary special shape hot air balloons ever created from all around the world. From intricate structures to jaw-dropping creativity, we’re diving into some of the most incredible flying works of art ever to grace the skies. Get ready for our grand top five finale…

Part 2 of our special shape blog series exploring the greatest special shape hot air balloons ever created for their complex structures and epic designs. Join us as we share some of the best and craziest flying creations the world has ever seen.

Special shape balloons are unique - there are no two the same. Whether it’s a product replica such as a beer bottle or shopping trolley built to advertise, or a made up character purely made for fun, these creations are always fascinating to look at and steal the show at events and festivals they attend. Hot air balloons not in the conventional teardrop shape combine artistry, engineering, and creativity to create a spectacle that captivates people of all ages.

The historic Icicle Balloon Meet returned to Newbury for its 53rd year on Saturday 4th January, held at the beatutiful Donnington Grove hotel and golf club. Saturday saw 20 balloons take flight in freezing but calm conditions, followed by tethering of a number of old envelopes including our retro Choc Dips tub special shape returning after quite some years!

Learn what life is like for our team behind the scenes at a major UK balloon event with our weird and wonderful hot air balloons. Together, we revisit the 2024 Bristol International Balloon Fiesta where we attended with a whole host of special shape balloons, bringing you along for the build-up, preparation, and event weekend.

Welcome to a special feature on one of the most memorable April Fools' Day pranks in history! In 1989, Londoners were stunned as a UFO-shaped hot air balloon glided across the city skyline, sparking a frenzy of curiosity and disbelief as people travelled to work. Written by Mark Lockwood, the creative director of Virgin Airship and Balloon Company (VABC), this article dives into how this clever special shape balloon, designed to look like an alien spacecraft, captured the imagination of Londoners and media across the country.