Kinross, Scotland 
Before the festival fields
RAF Balado Bridge opened in 1942. The airfield’s own history describes a wartime training base for Spitfire and Hurricane pilots. After the war, its connection with flying continued through gliding and other forms of light aviation.
Why the “golf ball”?
The white landmark in Steve’s photograph is associated with the former NATO satellite ground station. The Airfields of Britain Conservation Trust records the distinctive structure appearing in 1985 and the facility being decommissioned in 2006.
That familiar nickname is part of the local landscape — but the story behind it belongs to a very different chapter of Balado’s history.
When Balado meant T in the Park
For many people, the name brings back tents, big stages and a weekend of music. T in the Park was held at Balado from 1997 to 2014: eighteen festival summers.
The airfield’s own account remembers performances from acts including The Who, Blur, Muse and The Killers. Steve’s view of the surrounding land gives those memories a quieter backdrop.
The flying story continues
Balado Airfield continues its aviation role. Its official website has current information about the airfield and flying activities.
Were you there? Which Balado performance would you go back and hear again? Share this story with someone who was in the crowd.
