Giant Mongolian Sunflowers and Bristol's Balloon Fiesta

They have been having a bit of a sunflower contest in the Hamlet of Llanmartin with some giant Mongolian sunflower seeds.  Ian our giant vegetable grower has strong plants which are still shooting upwards, but Richard has one that is very tall. Mine unfortunately failed in their infancy but I have a very tall hollyhock that reaches the upstairs window!

Images showing Ian's whoppers, Richard's giant My hollyhock

Rhossili Bay

To see sunflowers in abundance, although of a more traditional height, we often go to Rhossili Bay.  There fields of sunflowers enhance the stunning coastline. Parking is in the National Trust car park and it is then a leisurely walk to the flowers. It costs £4 to enter. 

Interested in reading more -see article: Following the Sun

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Bristol Balloon Fiesta

Our view from the Clifton suspension bridge on a previous occasion

They say you snooze you lose, which was definitely the case for us this year as we did not get up early enough for the balloon ascent on Sunday morning. It proved a great success and caused quite a lot of excitement as one of the balloons skimmed over the ground where we had planned to watch on the hillside by the Clifton suspension bridge. Still no worries.  The wind was still in the same direction for the evening launch and we decided to be there in good time.  Then came the news from the  Bristol International Balloon Fiesta …..

‘Unfortunately Bristol, we will not be able to take to the skies this evening. The wind has really picked up, and is heading towards Avonmouth. When the wind speeds were slow this morning, we could manage but with the speeds now it would take our balloonists into the channel! ‘

This is the way with hot air ballooning. So we did not get to see them this year but all is not lost for we intend to go to Longleat next month and join in their ‘Icons of the skies’ celebration. It takes place on December 13-15 and usually has a number of animal shaped balloons. And should the weather be unfavourable there is plenty more to do at the safari park. 

Icons of the Skies

From the Longleat web site ….

Ready for an adventure that will lift your spirits and your feet off the ground? The Longleat Sky Safari returns for 2024, bringing back the magic and excitement that has made it one of Wiltshire's must-see events. Set in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside, this event is a visual treat you won't want to miss. 

Founded in 2016, The Sky Safari has quickly become a favourite annual event, drawing visitors from near and far. Each year, it grows bigger and better, showcasing an incredible array of hot air balloons and unforgettable performances. This hot air balloon festival is now one of the most anticipated events in Wiltshire, offering a spectacular blend of vibrant balloons and captivating shows.

Experience the adventure, with three days of breath-taking flying displays and balloon launches. Brand new highlights in this year’s program include flyovers from legendary Spitfire and Tiger Moths, high energy aerobatics, wing walkers, pyrotechnic air displays and much more! Admire intricate twists and turns, formation flying and adrenaline pumping moments as we reach 1000ft across over two hours of air displays each day.'

Interested in reading more about the Bristol Balloon Fiesta.   

 see articles :

Up, Up and Away

& Flying High