THE thought of hopping into a basket and taking a hot air balloon flight isn't something that has ever appealed to me.

Sure, being able to enjoy the beautiful British countryside from a totally unique perspective is both thrilling and peaceful for some. But not me.

Thankfully, this nostalgic method of air travel has been recreated for people who want to spend their time a lot closer to the ground, with a brand new ride now open at Drayton Manor Theme Park in Staffordshire.

Set in Thomas Land and based on the story of James and the Red Balloon, families can fly up and away in their own hot air balloon, rising to around 15 feet - rather than 5,000 ft - and tilting to one side.

From the ride's highest points we were able to see extensive views of the park and the whole of Sodor. Sofia, our two-year-old daughter, loved it so much we struggled to get her out of her seat so the next family could see what the fuss was about.

The £250,000 ride, which is all about the engine James and his naughty antics with a red hot air balloon, has joined 20 other Thomas rides for families to enjoy.

It features eight gondolas, each holding four children or two adults and a child.

“This is another exciting step in Thomas Land’s progression,” says William Bryan, managing director of Drayton Manor Park.

“We are always looking for new ways to excite and entertain our visitors and James and his Red Balloon seemed the perfect addition to our family of rides.

“James is the ideal ride for the whole family to enjoy and will act as a great stepping stone for those little ones looking for their next, thrilling experience.”

The Thomas Land attraction is the only one of its kind in Europe and recently underwent a £2.5 million expansion in 2015.

Each ride features one of Thomas’ friends, like Bertie Bus and Jeremy Jet.

From gentle rides for theme park first timers like Sofia, to more adventurous ones for older Thomas fans such as the Troublesome Trucks Runaway Coaster, there’s certainly something for everyone.

William Bryan, Managing Director at Drayton Manor Park, said: “Since its launch in 2008, Thomas Land has proven to be an extremely popular addition to the park, attracting guests of all ages to experience the magic of Sodor.

“The addition of James and the Red Balloon is a continuation of the magic that we hope will delight visitors for many years to come. As a family, we’re committed to ensuring each season is bigger and better than ever before and we hope James and the Red Balloon will thrill both the young and the young at heart. The atmosphere here today has been fantastic and we’re really excited about the season ahead.”

Sofia enjoyed the indoor play area, but if that doesn’t sound like your thing there’s much more, from topsy-turvy mini rides to exciting sights from Sodor Airport before exploring the park and 15-acre zoo.

It's fair to say that Drayton Manor features some of the wildest and scariest rides around, including Shockwave, Accelerator, G-force, Maelstrom, Apocalypse and Storm Force 10.

If you're looking to spend more time at the park, there is a four-star hotel on site featuring 150 rooms includes Thomas & Friends-themed rooms, all sleeping four to six guests.

The popular Grill Inn Restaurant and bar is adjacent to the hotel, seats up to 150 guests and is open all year round.

And with Easter on the way, there will be a special trail for families to follow uncovering clues to earn an egg-stra special prize.

FACTFILE

Save up to 35% by pre-booking online and via the call centre, with no added booking fee, a Rainy Day Guarantee and free car parking.

Online 2017 tickets for 4 to 11 years olds, those aged 60+, disabled visitors and carers are priced just £20, and £25 for 12 to 59 year olds. Adult and Toddler tickets are priced at £20 , After School tickets are available for £10, whilst under 2s can continue to enjoy free entry into the park.

On the day prices start from just £7 for toddlers aged 2 to 3, £29 for 4 to 11 year olds, 60+, disabled visitors and carers, and £39 for 12 to 59 year olds. Return visitors to the park can extend their experience and purchase day two tickets for just £14.

To book tickets, or for more information about the park, visit www.draytonmanor.co.uk or call 0844 472 1950. Reduced prices are available for tickets bought in advance. For regular updates and news about Drayton Manor Park join it on Twitter www.twitter.com/Draytonmanor and Facebook www.facebook.com/DraytonManorPark