Best Bonfire Night & Fireworks Displays in the UK
We’ve gathered details on some of the best fireworks displays in the UK – from fancy evenings to full-on fun-filled days and from castles to seaside harbours, there’s something for everyone. Our list of Bonfire Night and fireworks events is a mixture of free and paid events, so you can choose one that suits your budget.
The old rhyme may say remember, remember the fifth of November… but there are lots of fireworks events across the UK. While most are held on the days around Bonfire Night, there are a few great events in other months – we’ve included some of these too.
Top Tips
- Book tickets ahead – many of these fireworks displays can sell out in advance.
- Get there early to soak up the atmosphere and ensure you can get a good spot.
- We’ve listed costs for both child and adult tickets, but many events offer free tickets for under 3s.
- Some events have a children’s display earlier in the evening with fewer bangs – ideal if you want a gentler experience.
- Crowds, music and fireworks can mean a lot of noise – consider ear defenders, especially for young children.
North England Fireworks Displays
South West England Fireworks Displays
South East England Fireworks Displays
Midlands Fireworks Displays
The UK’s Biggest Firework Display
Location: Abingdon Airfield, Oxfordshire
Cost: From £15 for children and £20 for adults
When: Saturday 14th November
If you want to experience the ultimate firework display, you’re not going to beat the award-winning Abingdon Bonfire & Fireworks. It’s hardly a hidden gem anymore, but you’ll still find people talking up other shows in big cities like London. This musical lightshow and firework display has to be seen to be believed. The scale is simply breathtaking – and we think it’s fantastic value.
The enormous display stakes a claim as the biggest firework display in the UK, and it’s choreographed to light, music and lasers! With a huge bonfire, explosive fireballs and impressive fire performers, there is plenty to keep you warm. As well as the fire and fireworks, you can enjoy a funfair, monster truck rides and inflatable courses.
If you’re after something less full-on, there is a special low noise fireworks display for young children early in the evening. You can also watch glowing hot air balloons and take part in fun activities.
Nearby things to do:
Pendon Museum: A magnificently detailed model village with working trains from the 1920s and ’30s. This is a gem, with great, passionate and knowledgeable volunteers who help showcase these incredible rural scenes.
Crocodiles of the World: This centre has over 100 crocodiles from all over the world and you can also get up close with meerkats and other reptiles.
Chatsworth House
Location: Bakewell, Derbyshire
Cost: From £17 for children and £24 for adults
When: 30th and 31st October
This may be one of the fanciest fireworks displays in the UK. Before the fireworks begin, you can sit down to a two-course dinner in Chatsworth’s Cavendish Restaurant, located in their Grade 1 listed stables. It turns the whole evening into a luxurious experience and is a great way to soak up the historical setting.
Outside in the gardens, you can watch the bonfire being lit and enjoy two fireworks displays. The children’s display is a little gentler, followed by a grand finale that goes all out.
Nearby things to do:
Monsal Trail: Walking and cycling trail with viaducts and old railway tunnels, plus spectacular views. Largely flat and plenty of places to stop off for food and drink.
Thornbridge Estate: This Grade II stately home is less well-known than Chatsworth, yet also impressive. You can enjoy a pint of Thornbridge beer overlooking their beautiful gardens.
Indoor Illuminated Golf: This offers a quirky twist on mini golf with challenges for even the most experienced putter.
Alton Towers Ultimate Fireworks Spectacular
Location: Alton, Staffordshire
Cost: From £39
When: 6th-8th November
Bonfire Night weekend is traditionally when the Alton Towers theme park closes down for the season. As a result, they like to go all out to dazzle guests with music, pyrotechnics and a few spectacular surprises.
While these tickets are on the more expensive side for fireworks displays, they do include access to the park, rides and attractions all day. It’s the last chance of the year for thrillseekers to get an adrenaline rush on their rollercoasters. Some rides close during the fireworks for safety reasons, but most reopen afterwards.
Nearby things to do:
Churnet Valley Railway: Take a steam train ride through Staffordshire’s most beautiful countryside. From breakfast and cream teas to wine tasting and Sunday lunches, this is an amazing vintage treat.
Something Different: Check out our Unusual Things To Do In Staffordshire guide to find a variety of less ordinary places to visit.
Staffordshire Fireworks Extravaganza
Location: Staffordshire County Showground, Staffordshire
Cost: From £3 for children and £12 for adults. Online tickets only.
When: Sunday 1st November
One of Staffordshire’s biggest annual family fireworks events will once again feature a spectacular professional fireworks display, together with a children’s funfair and a selection of food and drink stalls, making it a full evening out for families.
Nearby things to do:
Stafford Castle: Walk through the keep of a 900 year old castle built in 1100AD. The visitor centre has a changing programme of events and exhibitions showcasing the history of the castle and the surrounding area.
Trentham Monkey Forest: With 60 acres of woodland, this is the largest primate habitat in the UK. 140 free-roaming Barbary macaques live remarkably similar lives to the wild, with visitors able to walk through the forest to see the monkeys up close.
North England Fireworks Displays
The World Fireworks Championship
Location: Blackpool, Lancashire
Cost: From FREE!
When: September and October
These stunning displays gather the best of the best to showcase their talents with six nights of fireworks displays over multiple weekends. Teams from around the world gather to outdo one another, with each one bringing their own jaw-dropping displays.
Taking place in front of the iconic Blackpool Tower, you can get the best views of the fireworks displays from the promenade between the Central and North Piers. There are around 60,000 fireworks in total – and probably the biggest bangs you’re likely to see!
The famous Blackpool Illuminations are also lit up during this period. You can drive through some and park up to see others up close on foot.
Nearby things to do:
Pleasure Beach Resort: Enjoy day-time thrills and late-night rides, as well as regular shows and events.
Spitfire Visitor Centre: This impressive museum recreates the sights and sounds of Blackpool during World War II. Learn about the aircrew’s operations and even sit in a Spitfire cockpit.
Kynren’s Pyromusical
Location: Bishop Auckland, County Durham
Cost: From £11 for children and £14 for adults
When: Saturday 31st October
This is one of the few seated fireworks displays we’ve found, making it ideal for everyone from young children to grandparents. It’s normally a sell-out event and one of the biggest firework displays in the North East, so definitely one to book in advance. You’ll need to contact them about any accessibility needs beforehand.
The fantastic fireworks are synchronised with a soundtrack of music, providing epic tunes and an electrifying experience. Auckland Castle provides a really amazing backdrop to the 7.5 acre outdoor ‘arena’ that seats 8000 people. You can gather around toasty firepits to warm up with mulled wine or hot chocolate before the show starts.
Nearby things to do:
Locomotion: A railway lover’s perfect day out. Enjoy displays, exhibitions and the opportunity to ride a replica of George Stephenson’s Rocket.
Brancepeth Castle: There’s been a castle on this site since Norman times, while the current Grade I building dates to the 14th century. It stayed in the Neville family until it was confiscated following the Northern Rebellion.
Diggerland: Ever fancied driving a digger or a mini tractor? This cracking theme park lets adults and children get to grips with dumpers, excavators and more. There are also rides, go karts and extras like quad bikes.
Feast & Fireworks at The Devonshire Arms Hotel
Location: Skipton, North Yorkshire
Cost: From £95 per adult (2 persons minimum)
When: Thursday 5th November
This is the ultimate indulgent Bonfire Night in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, part of the Bolton Abbey Estate. Enjoy canapés followed by a seasonal three-course dinner at this elegant country house hotel. By the time the music and fireworks begins, you’ll feel in a truly autumnal mood.
Staying over means the beauty of the Dales is on your doorstep and you can also explore miles of footpaths and cycle routes in the historic Bolton Abbey Estate. If you prefer to remain inside the hotel, you can relax with complimentary spa access.
The Feast & Fireworks package includes prosecco, dinner and the fireworks display with the option of booking accommodation and breakfast for £260 per person. This is guaranteed to be a memorable event and a real treat.
Nearby things to do:
Ilkley Moor: Take a walk among breathtaking views in this rare moorland conservation area with unique wildlife habitats.
Stump Cross Caverns: Tour 300 million years of history and impressive ancient rock formations in these natural caverns.
Spooktacular Fireworks and Funfair Racenight
Location: Newcastle Racecourse
Cost: From £29.50 for adults (Children free with an adult)
When: Friday 6th November
This fireworks event combines Halloween and Bonfire Night themes alongside an exciting race evening. The entertainment includes music and dance performances, fire breathers and stilt walkers, plus funfair rides. You’ll want to get creative for the fancy dress competition, with thinking hats on for a spooky treasure hunt.
One appealing aspect of this event is that under 18s get free entry with an adult. You can also book into the family restaurant where kids eat free. They’ll even get a visit from the Wizards.
There are roughly 6-8 races during this racenight, but you should expect a gap between the last race and the fireworks display. The timings will be a little rough so that they can ensure all horses have safely left the premises before fireworks begin.
Nearby things to do:
Seaton Delaval Hall: This is a small country house with a larger than life history. Explore the flamboyant lifestyle of the Delaval family, enjoy a walking trail, then relax in the award-winning Brewhouse Café.
Film & TV Location Tours: Northumberland’s unique landscape has attracted many films and TV shows, from Blake’s 7 to Harry Potter. In recent years, ITV’s Vera has highlighted its natural beauty and historic towns.
South West England Fireworks Displays
Plymouth Hoe Bonfire Night
Location: Plymouth, Devon
Cost: From FREE!
When: 5th November
This fireworks display has become extremely popular, so we recommend getting there early. There’s plenty to do from the afternoon, including fairground rides for children and adults. There are lots of food and drink options to keep you warm.
Plymouth Hoe may only be a relatively short fireworks display (usually about 15 minutes) but it is free and has a wonderful atmosphere. Head towards the Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse beforehand for the best views of the bonfire being lit. If you fancy chilling out, you can make your way to the Sensory Garden to relax away from the crowds.
If you’re in Plymouth earlier in the year, the Hoe also hosts the annual British Firework Championships each August. This is a great opportunity to see the very best of the fireworks display industry as they vie to be crowned Champion of Champions!
Nearby things to do:
South West Coast Path Walks: From quaint harbours to amazing Atlantic coast valleys, there is a huge variety to explore on this 630-mile National Trail.
Atlantic Highway Road Trip: Continue on to the other side of the South West coast and experience scenic roads, medieval castles and seaside seafood.
Dartmouth Royal Regatta
Location: Dartmouth, Devon
Cost: From FREE!
When: Last Saturday of August
Rowing and sailing are at the heart of Dartmouth Royal Regatta, with top tier sailing for dinghies, sportsboats and yachts. It’s a week-long celebration with activities to thrill all ages.
On the final Saturday, you can enjoy a day of races and displays before watching the fireworks illuminate the historic harbour. It’s a spectacular, picturesque sight that most people view from the waterside. However, look into local cruise trips that enable you to take an evening on the water before watching the fireworks display on deck.
Nearby things to do:
Dartmouth Castle: This fort offers more than just the castle’s history – it’s a great way to learn about the history of Dartmouth, its harbour and how it was defended over the centuries.
Paignton Zoo: With over 2000 animals and a plethora of plants, there is plenty to experience in the 80 acres of this zoo’s grounds.
Weymouth Fireworks
Location: Weymouth Seafront, Dorset
Cost: From FREE!
When: August and 5th November
These fireworks displays can be enjoyed anywhere along Weymouth Seafront. There’s an annual summer season to offer some seaside sparkle, as well as traditional 5th November fireworks.
Depending on the date, the entertainment and attractions can vary, but Alexandra Gardens usually has arcades and fairground rides. You can also just wander the historic harbour or take a climb to Nothe Fort for some of the best views of the fireworks display.
Check dates and details as some of the Weymouth firework events are lower noise fireworks – a great option if big bangs aren’t your thing.
Nearby things to do:
SEA LIFE Weymouth Aquarium: There’s a huge amount of ocean creatures and nature to explore over this 5-acre site, including the country’s largest manmade rock pool.
Abbotsbury Swannery: The Swannery has been here for centuries and is home to over 600 Mute Swans.
Winchester Bonfire and Fireworks
Location: River Park, Winchester
Cost: From £12
When: Saturday 7th November
This fantastic fireworks event has been run for over 60 years on an entirely voluntary basis by Winchester Round Table. It’s their biggest event and helps to raise a huge amount of money for local good causes.
Winchester Bonfire and Fireworks starts with a beautiful torchlit procession through the historic city centre. The procession heads towards the towering bonfire at River Park where a dazzling fireworks display takes place.
The city is always busy during this event, so either arrive early in the day, use public transport or park further out.
Nearby things to do:
Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium: Ideal for star-gazers of all ages, you can fly through the constellations on a space journey like no other.
Winchester Cathedral: With over 1000 years of history, this is a breathtaking medieval building. There is amazing architecture and tranquil grounds to explore.
South East England Fireworks Displays
Leeds Castle Fireworks Spectacular
Location: Near Maidstone, Kent
Cost: From £20 for children and £29 for adults
When: 7th-8th November
Home to the largest fireworks display in the South East, Leeds Castle’s grounds are an awe-inspiring place to watch this fireworks and laser display. With an early evening start, this also makes it an ideal fireworks event for families with younger children.
You can explore the Leeds Castle grounds all afternoon, including garden terraces, a maze and an underground grotto. For those after more excitement, there are playgrounds for all ages, obstacle courses and adventure golf.
The castle itself is steeped in history – but this is different to most castles. It has been superbly restored to its 1930s’ glamour when Lady Baillie transformed Leeds Castle into one of the most desirable English country houses.
Come the evening, a variety of street food provides classic British Bonfire Night fare, as well as international food. Relax and enjoy the show, then continue the fun at the fairground.
Nearby things to do:
The Hawking Centre: Get astounding experiences with birds of prey in a gorgeous setting. You’ll find expert instruction to fly a team of eagles, vultures, hawks and owls across this private estate.
Kent Life: Visit this vintage village with original buildings, including a village hall, farmhouse and blacksmith’s forge. Explore the Victorian farmhouse and the wartime cottages, complete with Anderson shelter.
Diwali Fireworks Display
Location: Byron Park, Harrow
Cost: From £10.95 for children and £16.45 for adults
When: Friday 7th November
Diwali is now celebrated with many public events across the UK, especially in areas with Indian and South Asian communities. Fireworks displays are the perfect way to mark this festival of light. This one is close enough to Bonfire Night to be a joint event and a real cultural celebration.
There are live DJs, a funfair and an array of world food. Face painting, glitter tattoos and Henna hand art will all help you to get into the festival mood.
Nearby things to do:
Ruislip Woods: This nature reserve is the largest area of woodland in London and spans over 750 acres. There are tranquil paths to walk or cycle and a diverse range of wildlife.
Chiltern Open Air Museum: Historic buildings from the Iron Age to the 20th Century have been rescued and relocated here, preserved for visitors to enjoy.
Firework Spectacular at Down Hall Hotel
Location: Bishop’s Stortford, Essex
Cost: From £25 for children and £39 for adults
When: Sunday 8th November
Hosted in the beautiful grounds of Down Hall Estate, this is a traditional bonfire evening that’s very family friendly. There’s a children’s disco early in the evening, with treats like toffee apples for sale. Each ticket includes complimentary hot drinks all evening, which is perfect if your family can’t get enough hot chocolate.
You can choose other fireworks display packages too. Relax at a reserved table and enjoy pizza, fries and drinks in the formal gardens on the VIP Terrace. You could also stay over in this historic property and get a room with either a private patio or balcony. It’s a luxurious way to watch the fireworks in style and comfort.
Nearby things to do:
Hatfield Forest: Explore this ancient Royal Hunting Forest with rare wildlife and trees over 1000 years old.
The Belgian Brewer: This small brewery uses traditional Belgian techniques to brew their beers, free from chemicals and animal derived products.
Wales Fireworks Displays
Round Table Fireworks Extravaganza
Location: Abergavenny, Monmouthshire
Cost: From £6 for children and £9 for adults
When: 5th November
This is a brilliant fundraiser for charities and good causes in Abergavenny’s local area. Grab some light up toys, ride the funfair and enjoy this spectacular extravaganza.
The two fireworks displays light up Belgrave Park in dazzling colour. The first show is a quiet one, ideal for smaller children and those with additional needs. The second fireworks display is a phenomenal pyromusical and light show that’s choreographed to a super soundtrack.
Nearby things to do:
Abergavenny Museum & Castle: Set in the grounds of the ruined Norman castle, this free museum tells the tale of Abergavenny’s history from prehistory to the present.
Big Pit National Coal Museum: Learn the story of Welsh mines and miners, traveling 300 feet below ground to explore the underground coalface.
Ride the Rocket Firework Train
Location: Llangollen Station, Denbighshire
Cost: From £10 for children and £28 for adults
When: Friday 7th November
This is a magical way to see the fireworks and the perfect treat for train fans, big or small. Experience a traditional steam train journey through the Dee Valley to enjoy a spectacular fireworks display at Corwen. The onboard bar sells alcohol and soft drinks, while you can pick up hot food at the station stop.
This is far from your usual bonfire event and often sells out, so book ahead if you plan to hop aboard.
Nearby things to do:
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct: Part of a Canal World Heritage Site, the Llangollen Canal is a stunning piece of engineering. Today, you can explore 11 miles of this in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Llangollen Motor Museum: This charming small museum is family-run and a lovely place to explore. If you’re into your classic cars and motorbikes, this is the place for you.
Scotland Fireworks Displays
Duncarron Medieval Village
Location: Denny, Falkirk
Cost: From £12 for children and £24 for adults
When: 5th November
The superb atmosphere of Scotland’s largest medieval village makes a fantastic backdrop for this magical fireworks display. It’s been the setting of numerous film and TV productions, including Outlander.
Alongside the bonfire and colourful fireworks, there are children’s activities, live music and a Guy Fawkes poetry performance.
Whether you decide to embrace the medieval theme yourself or simply wrap up warm to grab hot food and drinks, this firework display will offer a unique entertainment day.
Nearby things to do:
Bannockburn House: This impressive house belonged to the first baronet of Bannockburn and is set in picturesque woodlands and gardens. Today it’s owned by the local community and has been beautifully restored.
Stirling Castle: There’s a huge amount of Scottish history to explore here and magnificent views for miles.
Falkirk Tunnel: This eerie canal tunnel is the longest in Scotland at nearly half a mile long and is lit up inside – ideal as part of a Union Canal walk around Falkirk.
Fawkes Festival
Location: Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh
Cost: From £8 for children and £15 for adults
When: 2nd November
This is quite possibly Scotland’s ultimate fireworks display and you’ll need to get tickets in advance as it sold out even in its first year. There’s lots of live music and spectacular street performers roaming around in the afternoon, so plenty to see even before the laser show and fireworks start.
It’s a huge celebration and a magical atmosphere for children and adults – you can even toast your own marshmallows on roaring fire pits. If you’re after festival vibes in winter, this is the fireworks event for you.
Nearby things to do:
Fife Coastal Path: Cross over the Forth Bridge and explore sections of the 117-mile Fife Coastal Path. Take in modern industry, cultural heritage, valued nature reserve and iconic bridges.
Scottish Seabird Centre: Take a boat trip to see some amazing local wildlife, including puffins and the world’s largest northern gannet colony.
Things to check
- Getting there: Some events don’t have any parking on-site. Park up elsewhere and use taxis or public transport where possible – consider staying over nearby.
- Dogs: Many events will only allow assistance dogs.
- Accessibility: It’s a free-for-all for some public events, but some private fireworks displays offer areas and assistance for wheelchair users.
- Sparklers: Some fireworks organisers allow you to bring your own sparklers, others explicitly forbid it. You’ll need to check ahead.
