Guy Fawkes night is coming soon, and so everyone’s rushing around trying to find the best fireworks near them. But if you’re really looking for some sick fireworks, check out one of the best fireworks displays across the UK.
This is the ultimate list of events happening around one of the UK’s most loved traditions – Bonfire Night. Find out why we celebrate it, when it is and the must-attend firework events happening near you.
When is Bonfire Night?
Remember, remember…
As the saying goes, Bonfire Night is always on the 5th of November. While some events occur on that day, the majority are held on the closest weekend.
Why do we celebrate Bonfire Night?
On November 5th, Guido “Guy” Fawkes was involved in the Gunpowder Plot. That day saw 36 barrels of gunpowder concealed beneath the Houses of Parliament in London, aiming to trigger a massive blast and assassinate King James I.
The scheme did not succeed, and the British have commemorated this thwarted act of treachery ever since.
The best firework displays UK 2023
Unsure where to catch a spectacular fireworks display this Bonfire Night? No problem! We’ve got the ultimate round up of the best fireworks displays in 2023. Let’s jump in.
Bonfire Night at The Hoe
Where: The Hoe, Plymouth, Devon, PL1 2PA
When: 5th November 2023
On Bonfire Night, Plymouth hosts one of Devon’s most renowned celebrations. Get ready for a grand bonfire, dazzling fireworks, amusement rides, and so much more.
Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival
Where: Alexandra Palace, London, N22 7SS
When: 3rd to 4th November 2023
Often considered London’s ultimate Bonfire Night fireworks display, the Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival provides a stunning opportunity to watch fireworks burst against a sweeping view of London.
Accompanied by a German beer festival and a variety of street food offerings, it’s essential to reserve your spot on their website ahead of time, as this event consistently sells out each year.
Tar Barrels of Ottery St Mary
Where: Mill Street, Ottery St Mary, EX11 1BZ
When: 4th November 2023
In the tranquil town of Ottery St Mary in Devon, the Tar Barrel custom has its origins in the 17th century. In the lead-up to Bonfire Night, organizers drench the barrels in tar.
When the night arrives, these barrels are set ablaze in the town’s main square, lifted onto the backs of residents, and paraded through the lanes, delighting the watching crowd.
Lyme Regis Firework Display and Bonfire Night
Where: Front Beach, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3JJ
When: 4th November 2023
Watch as their fireworks display lights up the sky over Lyme Regis.
Chatsworth House Fireworks Display
Where: Chatsworth House, Bakewell, DE45 1P
When: 27th October to 28th October 2023
Looking for a family oriented event? Get ready for festive food and drink, bonfire and incredible fireworks at Chatsworth House.
Leeds Castle Fireworks Display
Where: Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1PL
When: 4th to 5th November 2023
If you’re looking for one of the best fireworks displays in the UK, Leeds Castle is certainly a top contender.
Back for November 2023, it’s the biggest fireworks display in the South East England. Wrap up warm, enjoy some food and drink and get ready for an incredible firework display.
Lappa Valley Steam Railway Grand Firework Display
Where: Lappa Valley, St Newlyn East, Newquay, TR8 5LX
When: 27th to 28th October 2023
Can’t make the 5th November celebrations? Celebrate bonfire night a weekend early at Lappa Valley Steam Railway. A great fireworks display for all the family, there’s plenty of children’s entertainment, food stalls and of course, an impressive fireworks display.
Quex Park Fireworks Grand Finale
Where: Quex Park, Birchington, Kent, CT7 0BH
When: 4th November 2023
If you’re looking for more than a bonfire and fireworks, you’re gonna love the Grand Finale at Quex Park. Get ready for fire eaters, a Bon Jovi tribute, two fireworks displays and much more. Head to their website to find out more.
Alton Towers Bonfire Night Celebrations
Where: Alton Towers Resort, Alton, Staffordshire, ST10 4DB
When: 3rd to 5th November 2023
Each year, Alton Towers welcomes firework-lovers to its theme park for adrenaline-pumping rides by day and a dazzling firework display by night. The extended park hours allow for extra creepy rides in the dark!
Typically scheduled around the closest weekend to Bonfire Night, this event stands as one of the UK’s top firework attractions. For further details, visit the Alton Towers website.
Oxford Round Table Charity Fireworks Display
Where: South Park, Oxford OX3 0HS
When: 4th November 2023
Oxfordshire proudly presents its biggest charity bonfire and fireworks display, now in its impressive 55th year! Complete with licensed bars, entertainment, a funfair, and a food hub, get ready for the best bonfire night celebrations. The gates open at 4:30pm, and the fireworks commence at 7:15 pm. For additional details and ticket purchases, visit their website.
Hunstanton Cliff Top Fireworks
Where: Hunstanton PE36 6EL
When: 4th November 2023
While it’s on the 4th November 2023, it’s easily one of the best bonfire night events going, with a fireworks spectacular, fun fairground rides, entertainment and plenty of food and drink.
Himley Bonfire and Fireworks
Where: Himley Hall, Dudley DY3 4DF
When: 4th November 2023
If you love Hollywood movie soundtracks, you’re gonna love the ‘Night at the Movies’ themed fireworks spectacular at Himley Hall. Get ready for funfair rides, bonfire and plenty of food to indulge in.
Leicestershire County Cricket Club Fireworks Display
Where: Leicestershire County Cricket Club, Leicester LE2 8AD
When: 3rd November 2023
This year, the Leicestershire County Cricket Club is going all out with their Fireworks Extravaganza on 3rd November 2023. The acclaimed Komodo Fireworks team is gearing up to deliver a spectacular performance that promises to impress.
Musical Fireworks Displays, Wimbledon Park
Where: Wimbledon Park, London SW19 7HR
When: 4th November 2023
Expect two incredible fireworks displays at Wimbledon Park, paired with a street food village and fun fair rides on-site. There are two displays per venue (Wimbledon Park and Morden Park), an earlier show for the younger ones with a ‘Magic’ theme, and a later ‘One Hit Wonders’ themed display.
Fireworks Fiesta, Stoke Park
Where: Stoke Park, Guildford GU11ER
When: 4th November 2023
Enjoy a fully licensed bar, real ale marquee and Munich bierkeller at this charity event – with all profits supporting their local community and the Oakleaf Enterprise.
There’s also music from award-winning tribute Blurasis, as well as hot food and drink stalls. Take a look at Visit Surrey for more information.
Bonfire and Fireworks Night, Weston-under-Lizard
Where: Weston Park, Weston-under-Lizard TF11 8PX
When: 5th November 2023
One of the region’s biggest bonfire night events, watch rockets light up the night sky at Weston Park, alongside their roaring bonfire and traditional fun fair.
Midsummer Common Fireworks Display, Cambridge
Where: Midsummer Common
When: 4th November 2023
Recognised as the city’s most spectacular Fireworks Night, this event stands as one of the longest-standing and most cherished Bonfire Night events. Thousands gather at Midsummer Common for their annual fireworks display. Behind this mesmerising display is the renowned Pains Fireworks, holding the crown as the UK’s oldest fireworks display company – establishing themselves in 1862.
SkyFi Fireworks Spectacular, Tamworth
Where: The Holloway, Tamworth B79 7NA
When: 4th November 2023
Get ready for a huge fireworks display at Tamworth Castle Grounds, kicking off from 5.30pm.
