Britain’s best bonfires 2018
Battel Bonfire Boyes, Battle, East Sussex
Legend has it that Guy Fawkes sourced his gunpowder from the Battle powder mills, something the Battel Bonfire Boyes has been commemorating for over 350 years.
The evening celebrations begin with a torch-lit procession through the town at 7pm, featuring a wide range of local bonfire societies in fancy dress.
The bonfire is lit at 9pm on 3rd November and fireworks follow soon after. It’s free entry but charitable donations are encouraged.
Mary St. Ottery Tar Barrels, Devon
The townspeople of Mary St. Ottery spend the evening lugging flaming barrels of tar on their backs in one of the most strange and dramatic bonfire festivals you’ll find in the UK.
It is thought the fiery barrels stem from a pagan ceremony to banish evil spirits. We’re not sure about that, but it certainly works to attract visitors! Find out for yourself on 5th November.
Penrhos Beach Fireworks, Anglesey
Reaching the Welsh island of Anglesey in is an adventure in itself, but worth it, as the fireworks on Penrhos Beach in Holyhead on November 5th offer a backdrop of sheer natural beauty.
With an enormous bonfire and rides for the kids, it’s a great family event. Plus all proceeds go to local good causes. Just remember to wrap up warm!
Tutbury Castle Vikings Fireworks, Staffordshire
Tutbury Castle’s unique annual fireworks display is preceded by an amazingly dramatic Viking show in one of the UK’s most animated Bonfire Night celebrations on 3rd and 4th of November.
The castle traditionally hosts historical re-enactments, archaeological tours and ghost hunts, but early November sees the ‘Tutbury Vikings’ engage in combat under the moonlight, followed by a Viking ‘funeral’. It’s an unforgettable fireworks event for the family with a fun historic twist.
Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival, Alexandra Palace, North London
Alexandra Park is situated high above North London, promising a sparkling panoramic view of the city and the fireworks on 2nd and 3rd November.
Billed as ‘the coolest fireworks display in London’, the pyrotechnics are pretty spectacular. But ‘Ally Pally’s’ annual event isn’t all about the rockets and screamers; there’s a parade, funfair, live music, a German beer festival and loads more.
Fireworks at the Fort, Segedunum, North Tyneside
One of the biggest fireworks displays in North East England takes place at the Roman fort remains on the banks of the river Tyne in Wallsend on November 1st.
The perfect place to celebrate a Bonfire Night with a difference, this iconic spot was built to guard the eastern end of Hadrian’s Wall. Entry to the museum is free from 4pm. Learn about Roman life before the big bangs begin at 6.30pm.
Fireworks Night, Aberdeen: 5 November
Wrap up warm for one of Scotland’s best-loved Bonfire Night events taking place on 5th November. The evening begins with a fire walk at 6.30pm, where several brave souls walk across hot coals to raise money for charity.
The heat continues with fire juggling before an energetic 20 minute fireworks performance with live music. Stand on the Beach Boulevard and along the Beach Esplanade for the best views.
Lewes Bonfire Night, Sussex
No less than 7 bonfire societies combine and compete to put on firework displays for upwards of 30,000 spectators. There’s an amazing carnival atmosphere in Lewes on 5th November, with thousands of lit-up torches adding spectacle to a series of processions leading up to the firework display.
Known locally as ‘The Fifth’, this electric and colourful evening is rich in tradition and big in spectacle! Find ticket info and timings on the event website.
