Best Firework Displays in the UK to Enjoy on Bonfire Night 2023
There's nothing quite like standing amongst a crowd on a crisp November night, wrapped up in layers, to watch the lighting of the bonfire and marvel as fireworks light up the sky above you. 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, the must-attend firework events and where to camp nearby.
The events listed below are all organised displays, where safety is high priority. The RSPCA have good resources if your pets struggle with fireworks during bonfire season.
Loch Ness Shores Firework Display 2023
When is Bonfire Night?
Remember, remember, the 5th of November.
As the rhyme suggests, Bonfire Night always takes place on the 5th of November. Some events take place on the day, but most events take place on the nearest weekend.
Why do we celebrate Bonfire Night?
As previously mentioned, the tradition of Bonfire Night goes back to 1605. On November 5th, Guido “Guy” Fawkes participated in the Gunpowder Plot. On that day, 36 barrels of gunpowder were placed in cellars beneath the Houses of Parliament in London in an attempt to set off a devastating explosion and kill King James I. The plot was unsuccessful, and ever since, Britons have remembered this failed act of treason.
2023 Bonfire Night events
1. Tar Barrels of Ottery St Mary
Where: Mill Street, Ottery St Mary, EX11 1BZ.
When: 4th November 2023.
What: Hosted in the sleepy Devonshire town of Ottery St Mary, the Tar Barrel tradition dates back to the 17th century. In the weeks before Bonfire Night, the organisers soak the barrels with tar. On the night, they are lit in the town centre and hoisted onto local’s backs and carried through the streets to the glee of spectators.
Nearest campsite: Charmouth Club Site
2. Bonfire Night at The Hoe
Where: The Hoe, Plymouth, Devon, PL1 2PA
When: 5th November 2023.
What: This Bonfire Night in Plymouth is one of the most popular in Devon. A large bonfire, spectacular fireworks, fairground rides and much more can be expected.
Nearest campsite: Tavistock Club Site
3. Lyme Regis Firework Display and Bonfire Night
Where: Front Beach, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3JJ.
When: 4th November 2023.
What: Watch as fireworks light up the sky over Lyme Regis with The Cobb as a brilliant backdrop.
Nearest campsite: Charmouth Club Site
4. Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival
Where: Alexandra Palace, London, N22 7SS.
When: 3rd – 4th November 2023.
What: Arguably London’s must-see firework display on Bonfire Night, the Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival offers the chance to see exploding fireworks back-dropped by a panoramic view of London. Featuring a German beer festival and diverse street food, you’ll need to book in advance on their website to see this spectacle as it always sells out.
Nearest campsite: Theobalds Park Club Site
5. Chatsworth House, Bonfire and fireworks
Where: Chatsworth House, Bakewell, DE45 1P
When:27th October - 28th October 2023
What: Enjoy a family-fun evening at Chatsworth House, complete with an unforgettable firework display, festive food and drink and of course the star of the show - a bonfire!
Nearest campsite: Bakewell Club Site
6. Leeds Castle Fireworks Spectacular
Where: Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1PL
When: 4th – 5th November 2023.
What: Returning for 2023, Leeds Castle’s Fireworks Spectacular is the biggest firework display in the South East of England. Sing and dance to the music beneath the sky filled with an explosion of colours, bangs and whizzes.
Nearest campsite: Canterbury Club Site
7. Quex Park Fireworks Grand Finale
Where: Quex Park, Birchington, Kent, CT7 0BH
When: 4th November 2023.
What: Fire eaters, a Bon Jovi tribute band, bonfire lighting, two firework displays, and much more can be expected at Quex Park for their Grand Finale. Head to Leeds Castle's website for more information.
Nearest campsite: Canterbury Club Site
8. Alton Towers Fireworks
Where: Alton Towers Resort, Alton, Staffordshire, ST10 4DB
When: 3rd – 5th November 2023.
What: Every year, Alton Towers invites families to their theme park for a day of thrill-seeking and an evening of spectacular fireworks. Because the theme park is open late for the fireworks, you can ride the rollercoasters in the dark for a terrifying experience! Hosted across the nearest weekend to Bonfire Night, this event is one of the most popular firework displays in the UK. Head to the Alton Towers website for more information.
Nearest campsite: Conkers Club Site
9. Oxford Round Table Charity Fireworks
Where: South Park, Oxford OX3 0HS
When: 4th November 2023.
What: This is Oxfordshire's largest charity bonfire and firework display and is in its 55th year! With licensed bars, entertainment, a funfair and a catering village, there is something for all ages. Gates open at 4.30pm, with fireworks starting at 7.15pm. For more information and to buy tickets head to their website.
Nearest campsite: Chipping Norton Club Site
10. Hunstanton Cliff Top Fireworks
Where: Hunstanton PE36 6EL
When: 4th November 2023.
What: Not only is this a wonderful location to view fireworks, you can expect a fairground, food stalls and entertainment.
Nearest campsite: Sandringham Club Site
11. Lappa Valley Steam Railway Grand Firework Display
Where: Lappa Valley, St Newlyn East, Newquay, TR8 5LX
When: 27th & 28th October 2023.
What: Celebrate a weekend early at Lappa Valley Steam Railway. Plenty of children's entertainment and food and drink available on both days. For more information head to the Lappa Valley website.
Nearest campsite: Tregurrian Club Site
Need more inspiration for your next camping trip? Take a look at some more activity ideas.