Remember, remember the fifth of November
Gunpowder, treason and plot.
Each year Bonfire Night comes around with spectacular firework displays up and down the Country. We thought we’d examine some of the most popular displays around the country which you and your family can visit.
The tradition of Bonfire Night originated when Guy Fawkes attempted his famous Gunpowder Plot in November 1605. Unhappy with the King James I Fawkes and his team planned to blow up the Palace of Westminster during the state opening of Parliament. They managed to smuggle 36 barrels of gunpowder into the cellar – which had they not been caught would have been enough to destroy the entire building. Hundreds of years later and the tale of Guy Fawkes still lives on…
London’s Alexandra Palace
Saturday 7th November at 8pm
In the fantastic setting of our capital city, the Alexandra Palace Fireworks promise to please those attending. With this year’s display set to be even bigger and brighter than in previous years with the addition of a laser show, attendees are in for a treat. There is also a German Beer Festival on site selling plenty of beverages and good food!
Lewes Bonfire Night
Thursday 5th November from 5pm
Famous for its bonfire celebrations Lewes Bonfire Night is one not to miss if you live in the South East of England. With a parade through the streets with burning effigies of app victims (in past years this has included the likes of Alex Salmond and Vladimir Putin) to the bonfires. Be warned organisers have previously warned the parade is free to watch but the town can become rather crowded and noisey.
Fireworks at the Fort, North Tyneside
Thursday 5th November at 6.30pm
Head to the Segedunum Fort for a spectacular free firework display over the River Tyne, where the iconic Swan Hunter would launch its ships from. Entry to both the museum and the café is free from 4pm and the fireworks start at 6.30pm.
Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent
Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th November at 5.30pm
This ticketed display in the grounds of what is described as the ‘loveliest castle in the world’ pleases large crowds each year. This year spectators will be treated to a dazzling display which is set to the music from the movies. This year there is an opportunity to enjoy live music from Adam Chandler of X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent fame. Hurry, tickets sell very fast!
Bristol Zoo, Bristol
Friday 5th – Saturday 7th November at 5.45pm
Celebrate Bonfire Night a little quieter than normal at Bristol Zoo, with special low-noise fireworks which will not disturb the zoos inhabitants. With a fabulous compare who will kick proceedings off the whole family is guaranteed to have a great night out. Adult tickets are £8 and children £5 – children under 2 go free!
Sparks in the Park, Cardiff
Saturday 7th November at 4.30pm
Sparks in the Park is Wales’s largest Firework display with a massive 20,000 strong crowd expected to turn up over the course of the two displays. Earlier in the day is a child-friendly smaller display before the main event later in the evening. Early bird prices are £7.50 for adults and £3.75 for children.
Well, there you have it, some of the UK’s best Fireworks and Bonfires picked out for you. Whatever you do have a fabulous evening!