Top 5 Best Firework Displays in the UK

The 5 November marks the anniversary of Guy Fawkes’ gunpowder plot in 1605. To commemorate its failure, dazzling fireworks are displayed yearly all across the UK. Some of the biggest firework displays in the UK take place to mark Bonfire Night which is also known as Guy Fawkes Night. While some are big and elaborate, others offer local traditions. With fireworks displays, massive bonfires, toffee apples and plenty of mulled wine, it’s a jovial and thrilling event. Here are the top five places to celebrate the best firework displays in the UK.

Bonfire Night, Lewes

Admission price: £10

It’s estimated that roughly around 40,000 people gather on the streets each year to watch or take part in the procession.

Lewes is a quiet medieval town in East Sussex but on Bonfire Night, the locals go all out for this annual celebration. People donned in period costumes march through the cobbled streets with flaming torches, lighting bonfires and setting off fireworks.

Betley Bonfire, Cheshire 

Admission price: £10–£14

Watch the sky light up in the picturesque village of Betley. This town in Cheshire burns one of the largest bonfires in the country and is one of the biggest displays in the North.

The natural amphitheatre of Betley makes the whole town a great place to enjoy the festivities and fireworks displays. Head to the end of the high street near NatWest bank to see the procession march up the hill. Or instead, you might watch the show from Albion Street that covers the whole route with the procession visible at both ends.

Battersea Park Fireworks, London

Admission price:

• Children (0–5): free

• Child (5–15 yrs): £8.80

• General Admission: £13.10

Battersea Park hosts one of London’s most popular Bonfire Night events with over 50,000 people attending the show. 

With some visitors dubbing it as one of the best firework displays in the UK, be assured that this is more than just fireworks. With live shows, DJs and funfair rides – it’s no wonder tickets sell out fast for this spectacle. The fireworks display is coupled with music, a scenic riverside view and a selection of food stalls and bars to keep you warm.

Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival, London

Admission price:

• Child (0–10yrs): £5.50

• Child (11–15yrs): £12

• General Admission: £17.50

Also known affectionately as Ally Pally, the Alexandra Palace fireworks festival hosts one of the biggest fireworks shows in London with over 100,000 people attending each year. Beyond the magnificent fireworks, this all out festival style spectacle has DJ sets, ice skating, street food and occasionally a drone show. 

Midsummer Common, Cambridge

Admission price: free

*Instead of an entry fee, visitors are encouraged to make £3 donation The Midsummer Common fireworks display in Cambridge is the largest free fireworks show in the eastern part of the UK. This outdoor gathering usually has over 25,000 people attending and overlooks the gently flowing River Cam. The annual extravaganza offers funfairs, toffee apples, mulled wine, fire dancers and a huge bonfire, alongside the fireworks.

These tips will help you have the best Bonfire Night in the UK!

• Book your tickets ahead of time: tickets sell out fast, buying them in advance will guarantee entry

• Bring cash: some vendors or activities may be cash-only 

• Wear layers: between the cold gusts of wind and warm drinks, wearing layers will ensure that you can stay comfortable throughout the evening

• It’s more than just fireworks: get the best out of Bonfire Night by joining in on the festivities, activity and seasonal food and drinks

• Adventure: each Bonfire Night offers something different, find out what’s on offer across London or the UK and make the most of each event

Where is the best place to watch London fireworks?

The best thing about Bonfire Night is that it can be as intimate as a small local park or a large pyrotechnic show with DJs and live shows. While larger events likeBattersea Park Fireworks or the Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival guarantee entry, you can witness the dazzling array of fireworks at free locations such as Primrose Hill.

You can also get a panoramic view of London at The Shard – one of the tallest buildings in Europe.