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As the nights draw in and the chill of autumn settles over the UK, it’s time to start thinking about one of our most beloved traditions: Bonfire Night, or Guy Fawkes Night as it’s officially known. This fun UK tradition is the perfect excuse to watch the best fireworks displays, warm up on toasty bonfires, and tuck into some classic winter treats. Whether you’re a local or a visitor looking to experience the magic of Bonfire Night in the UK, we’ve got you covered with our guide to 12 UK hotspots for Bonfire Night 2024 including:
- London – Victoria Park
- Edinburgh – Bonfire Night at Inverleith Park
- Cardiff – Alexandra Gardens
- Inverness - Bught Park
- Greater Manchester – Bowden Cricket Hockey & Squash Club
- Bristol – Bristol Downs
- Midlands – Midland Railway
- Leeds – Leeds Castle
But first, let’s dive into a bit of history and tradition behind Guy Fawkes Night in the UK.
How To Celebrate Bonfire Night 2024
What Happens on Guy Fawkes Night in the UK?
Guy Fawkes Night, or Bonfire Night, takes place on the 5th of November each year. It commemorates the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, when Guy Fawkes and his co-conspirators attempted to blow up the House of Lords. Today, the night is marked by bonfires, fireworks, and the burning of Guy Fawkes effigies, alongside traditional foods like toffee apples and jacket potatoes.
Why Did Bonfire Night Start?
Bonfire Night began as a celebration of the failure of the Gunpowder Plot, which aimed to assassinate King James I and replace him with a Catholic monarch. The plot was discovered, and Fawkes was arrested as he guarded the explosives under the House of Lords. To mark the king’s safety and the plot’s failure, people lit bonfires and celebrated with fireworks.
Why Was It Illegal Not to Celebrate Bonfire Night?
In the early years after the plot was thwarted, it was actually made a legal obligation to celebrate Bonfire Night. The 1606 Act of Parliament, known as the "Observance of 5th November Act," mandated that people celebrate it to reinforce the Protestant establishment and ensure that everyone celebrated the king’s survival.
What Day Is Bonfire Night?
Bonfire Night is always on the 5th of November. If the 5th falls on a weekend, many events will start on the nearest Saturday or Sunday to accommodate families and visitors.
What Is the Bonfire Night Song?
The traditional bonfire night song associated with the 5th of November is “Remember, Remember the 5th of November” to help us remember the events of the Gunpowder Plot:
"Remember, remember the 5th of November,
Gunpowder treason and plot,
We see no reason why gunpowder treason
Should ever be forgot.”
This catchy Guy Fawkes song is often recited or sung during celebrations, adding to the historical atmosphere of the night.
Is Bonfire Night Only British?
While Bonfire Night is a distinctly British tradition, similar celebrations can be found in other parts of the world. In the US, for example, there are fireworks displays around Independence Day, and in Australia, they celebrate a range of fireworks festivals. However, Guy Fawkes Night is uniquely rooted in British history and is particularly celebrated across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
The 8 Best Places in the UK For Bonfire Night 2024
Ready to make some memories this Bonfire Night 2024? Here are 8 fantastic locations across the UK where you can celebrate Guy Fawkes Night in style.
1. London – Alexandra Palace
Location: England
Event Time: The Festival running times are 6 pm – 10.30 pm on Friday, 1 November, and 4 pm – 10.30 pm on Saturday, 2 November. The last entry is 9.05 pm on Friday and 8.05 pm on Saturday. The fireworks will start at 9 pm on Friday and 8 pm on Saturday.
What happens? On Friday, 1 November, and Saturday, 2 November, you can watch one of the UK's best fireworks shows at the Ally Pally Fireworks Festival! Alexandra Palace, affectionately known as Ally Pally, hosts one of London's best Bonfire Night events. With stunning panoramic views of the city, this Guy Fawkes event in London features:
- A massive bonfire
- Breathtaking fireworks
- A German beer festival
- An ice rink
- A Day of the Dead parade
- Numerous street food vendors
When joining in the Ally Pally fun, you can dance the night away at StrEATlife, featuring electrifying sets from top DJs (to be announced). Cosy up by the roaring bonfire, or head inside to the German Bier Festival, where lively Oompah bands and thrilling tribute acts (to be announced) await. Plus, delight in the family funfair, glide through the ice discos and be amazed by a brand-new, spectacular drone show. Full event details will be announced in September 2024.
Where to stay for Bonfire Night in London
Location: London (Haringey)
Green Rooms - Hostel is within a 5-minute drive of Alexandra Palace, making it a handy accommodation choice for those attending the festivities. This social London hostel offers comfortable and affordable accommodation with amenities such as a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, and complimentary wireless internet access and is perfect for friend groups wanting to experience Bonfire Night in London. Additionally, it features a theme restaurant with a bar/lounge and a coffee shop/cafe. Plus, the hostel's proximity to Alexandra Palace and other local attractions like Priory Park and Finsbury Park makes it an ideal base for your Bonfire Night celebrations.
2. Edinburgh – Bonfire Night at Inverleith Park
Location: Scotland
Events: Edinburgh’s Inverleith Park offers a fantastic firework display over the city’s skyline and a lively atmosphere for families. Make sure you arrive early, pack a picnic and take a seat so you can watch the fireworks in comfort. Oh and Scottish weather can be particularly chilly in November so dress in layers and consider bringing hats, gloves, and scarves.
Where to stay for Bonfire Night in Edinburgh 2024
If you're looking for a hotel close to Inverleith Park, you can't go wrong with Nira Caledonia. You'll be centrally located in Edinburgh, within a 10-minute walk of George Street and Princes Street and a short walk from trendy Stockbridge which boasts village vibes and tons of cute cafes. This upscale Edinburgh hotel offers luxurious rooms with:
- Individually decorated guestrooms
- iPod docking stations
- Flat-screen TVs
- Egyptian cotton sheets
- Private bathrooms with jetted bathtubs
- Designer toiletries
Plus, the hotel's Blackwoods Bar & Grill serves local and international cuisine, and the bar/lounge provides a cosy spot to unwind. Continental breakfasts are available on weekdays from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and on weekends from 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM for a fee.
3. Cardiff – Bonfire Night at Sophia Gardens
Location: Wales
What happens? Wales' biggest Guy Fawkes celebrations are returning this year in the heart of Cardiff to the Sophia Gardens for the fourth year. The Bonfire Night event will be hosted by Wyburn and Wayne, with performances from Cardiff Theatre Café including live music and family entertainment with funfair rides, street food, and a fireworks display, making it perfect for the whole family. With the little ones in tow, they'll love the Family Fun Zone with fairground rides, face painters, and sweet stalls.
Where to stay for Bonfire Night in Cardiff 2024
Book a few nights at the Hotel Indigo Cardiff that's only a 3-minute walk from Cardiff Castle and a 6-minute walk from Principality Stadium, making it a convenient choice for attending Bonfire Night 2024 at Sophia Gardens. This luxury hotel in Cardiff serves up delicious British cuisine at its Lefel 6 Bar and Restaurant making it perfect for an impromptu Cardiff city break for Bonfire Night 2024.
4. Inverness – Bught Park
Location: Scottish Highlands
What happens? When looking to experience Guy Fawkes in Inverness, get down to Bught Park that's always the best place in Inverness to soak up the atmosphere. From 5 pm, you can enjoy:
- Catering stalls serving up heartwarming Highland food
- Funfair rides
- Live performances from local acts
The bonfire is lit at 6 pm with the incredible fireworks starting at 7 pm. Drivers are reminded that parking restrictions will be in place around the Bught area on the night with priority access maintained for the emergency services, disabled drivers, and local residents throughout the night.
Where to stay for Bonfire Night in Inverness 2024
For a fantastic hotel in the heart of Inverness, look no further than Columba Hotel Inverness. This historic Inverness hotel offers a great base for your Bonfire Night adventure being just a short stroll from Bught Park and puts you within a 10-minute walk of Inverness Castle, Inverness Cathedral, and Eden Court Theatre. After your evening of Guy Fawkes fun, retreat to one of the hotel’s 82 comfortable guestrooms. Each room features:
- Flat-screen televisions for relaxing after the event
- Complimentary Wi-Fi to stay connected
- Private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries and hairdryers
- Coffee/tea makers for a cosy nightcap
This riverside Inverness hotel offers both comfort and convenience, making it a convenient base for enjoying the Bonfire Night celebrations and exploring the city.
5. Bowden, Greater Manchester – Bowdon Cricket Hockey and Squash Club
Location: England
What happens? Join the fun at Bowdon Fireworks in Greater Manchester for their 56th Annual Bonfire Night! This family-friendly event features two fantastic firework displays – a lower volume display for the little ones and a spectacular grand finale set to music for everyone to enjoy. Plus, there are plenty of stalls, rides, bars, and BBQs to keep you entertained throughout bonfire night.
Ticket Information for Bowden Bonfire Night 2024:
Advance Prices:
- Child (3-13): £8
- Adult (14+): £15
- Family Ticket (2 adults + 2 children): £40
Gate Prices:
- Child: £10
- Adult: £20
- Family: £50
Additional Information:
- Firework Displays: The first display is lower volume, perfect for younger visitors, while the second display and grand finale feature louder, more vibrant fireworks set to music.
- Parking: Disabled and public parking is available locally, but not on-site so we advise arriving early to secure a spot!
Where to stay in Greater Manchester for Bonfire Night 2024
For those attending Bowdon Bonfire Night 2024, the Best Western Manchester Altrincham Cresta Court Hotel offers a comfortable and convenient stay. Stay close to the action with a location that’s within a 15-minute drive of the Bowdon Fireworks. You’ll also be near popular Manchester destinations like Trafford Centre and Old Trafford, making it easy to explore the area beyond Guy Fawkes Night.
6. Bristol – Canford Park
Location: Southwest England
What happens? Experience the biggest and best charity fireworks display in Bristol at the Fireworks Fiesta! Returning to Canford Park on Saturday, 2nd November 2024, this event promises an evening of dazzling pyrotechnics by Skyburst, the winners of the 2023 British Firework Championships. The Fireworks Fiesta is not just about the display; it's a major charity event, supporting local causes and bringing the community together for a night of fun and excitement.
Where to stay for Bonfire Night in Bristol 2024
For a convenient and comfortable stay during the Fireworks Fiesta, consider The Bristol Hotel. Located in the heart of the city, it offers easy access to Canford Park and the vibrant attractions of Bristol. This Bristol hotel is known for its convenient amenities like flat-screen TVs and coffee machines and 24/7 room service.
7. Midland Railway – Butterley
Location: Derbyshire, East Midlands
What happens? Get ready for a spectacular Fireworks Night at the Midland Railway – Butterley! Due to popular demand, this event will span two evenings on Friday, 1st November and Saturday, 2nd November 2024. Fireworks are set to light up the sky at 7:30 pm on both nights. The fun begins with frequent train services from Butterley starting at 5 pm, with the last train to Swanwick departing at 7 pm.
Enjoy a mesmerizing fireworks display set to music at Swanwick Junction and explore various attractions including the Stationary Power Display, Road Transport Display, Victorian Railwayman’s Church, and the Demonstration Signal Box. For an extra thrill, take a spooky train ride through the park on the Narrow Gauge Train (additional charge). Seasonal food and hot drinks will be available to keep you warm. The fun continues after the fireworks with the last train back at 9:30 pm. Free car parking is available at Butterley Station, which is the only access point to this event.
Where to stay for Bonfire Night at Midland Railway – Butterley 2024
For a convenient and comfortable stay during the Fireworks Night, consider The Derby Midland Hotel. Located in Derby city centre, it offers easy access to the Midland Railway – Butterley and other local attractions.
8. Leeds - Leeds Castle
Location: Leeds, England
What happens? Experience the South East’s largest and most spectacular fireworks display at Leeds Castle Fireworks Spectacular! This popular event returns on Saturday, 9th November and Sunday, 10th November 2024. The show combines breathtaking fireworks and music inspired by colours, celebrating the Leeds Castle Foundation's 50th anniversary. Arrive at 2 pm to explore the Castle’s grounds, including the maze, play areas, and adventure golf. When celebrating Guy Fawkes in Leeds, you can also enjoy:
- Live music
- Sample delicious street food
- Have fun at the fairground
The grand firework display begins at 5:30 pm, lighting up the sky with a captivating showcase accompanied by music, projections, and lasers.
Where to stay for Bonfire Night at Leeds Castle 2024
For a convenient and comfortable stay during the Fireworks Spectacular, consider Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel. Located just a short drive from Leeds Castle, this hotel offers modern amenities and a cosy atmosphere.
Gift a Night Away with the Best Hotel Vouchers in the UK
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So whether you’re planning your own Bonfire Night 2024 or looking for the best way to gift a night away to someone special our hotel gift vouchers are a brilliant choice!
