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Remember, remember the fifth of November...and with so many incredible places to celebrate bonfire night, you won’t be forgetting this date any time soon! From small-scale firework displays to enormous festivities and centuries-old traditions, Guy Fawkes Night is a 500-year-old tradition that's celebrated far and wide in all manner of ways.
Most displays take place on bonfire night itself or on the weekend before or after, and most are suitable for people of all ages. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a family activity or a fun way to celebrate with your friends, you have loads of options to choose from.
Make this bonfire night an unforgettable one with one of these spectacular bonfire night displays in London and the South West – all easy to get to with South Western Railway.
Best bonfire night events in London
If you’re planning a trip to London for some bonfire festivities, there’s something for everyone around the Capital!
Battersea Park Fireworks
For a riverside celebration south of the Thames, Battersea Park’s annual Bonfire Night is a top choice. Thousands of people flock to this scenic park each year to watch the massive bonfire and dazzling firework display light up the night sky. With the fireworks perfectly reflecting over the Thames, it’s a photographer’s dream!
The event features food stalls and bars for a cosy evening, and for adults, there’s an afterparty with high-profile DJs spinning tracks late into the night. Battersea Power Station is also nearby, providing more dining and entertainment options to explore after the fireworks.
Date: 2 & 3 November 2024
Location: Battersea Park, South London
Price: Children under 5s go free, tickets for 5–15-year-olds are £8.80 and over 16’s tickets are £13.10
How to get there: Battersea Park Station lies at the junction of the South London Line and the Brighton Main Line, from Waterloo trains take 10 minutes to Battersea Park Station and the park is a short walk from there. Alternatively, from Waterloo take the Northern line south to Battersea Power Station and walk 15 minutes to the park.
Wimbledon Park Bonfire & Fireworks
Why settle for one firework display when you can enjoy two in one night? Wimbledon Park celebrates bonfire night with an earlier display for children, followed by the main event later on. Both combine pyrotechnics with music for a spectacular show that you and your friends and family will love.
The young and young at heart can get their pulses going and play for prizes at the funfair, and you’ll also find plenty of food stalls serving up bonfire night specialities, from hot dogs and burgers to toffee apples and candyfloss.
Date: 5 November 2024
Location: Wimbledon Park, South London
Price: Children under 4 go free, tickets for 5 – 15-year-olds are £10.07 and over 16’s tickets are £13.78. Family tickets available for 2 adults and 2 children for £40.28.
How to get there: Wimbledon Station is serviced by South Western Railway trains for Woking, London Waterloo, Guildford, Richmond and Hampton Court and is a 25-minute walk from Wimbledon Park. If you don’t fancy walking you can take the Northern line to Embankment then pick up the District line tube to Southfields.
Ally Pally’s Fireworks Festival, Alexandra Palace
For an unforgettable Bonfire Night experience, head to Alexandra Palace known affectionately as "Ally Pally". This iconic Fireworks Festival has been lighting up the skies for over 150 years, making it one of London’s most celebrated events. The festival features not only a stunning fireworks display, but also giant bonfires, street food, nostalgic fairground rides and an ice rink where you can skate before the big display over London’s iconic skyline.
Date: 1 & 2 November 2024
Location: Alexandra Palace, North London
Price: Tickets range from £6.50 for a child and £18 for adults
How to get there: Alexandra Palace is located at the Wood Green Entrance to the park (15-20 minute walk). Direct services available from King’s Cross.
Best bonfire events in the South West
Jump on a South Western Railway train and celebrate bonfire night at one of these amazing events in the South West of England.
Credit: Jamie Street - Unsplash
Winchester Bonfire and Fireworks
Winchester’s annual fireworks display, organised by the local Round Table, is one of the largest in the region. Starting with a torchlit procession from the city centre, this event draws crowds of up to 20,000 people. The fireworks show is set to music creating a breathtaking audio-visual experience. Be sure to grab tickets from the Round Table in advance as this popular event often sells out!
Date: 9 November 2024
Location: River Park, Winchester
Price: Tickets start from £8 per person
Trains to Winchester
Winchester is serviced by South Western Railway and is located just over an hour from London by train. Discover more information about Trains to Winchester.
Poole Quay Fireworks
Date: 5 November 2024
Location: Poole Quay, Dorset
Price: This is a free event.
Poole’s vibrant Quay comes alive on Bonfire Night with a fireworks display lighting up the historic harbour. The event is known for its lively atmosphere with street performers, live music, and family-friendly entertainment. While admission is free, donations are encouraged to support local charities.
For the best view, head to the waterside early to get a prime spot. Don't forget to explore Poole’s nearby attractions, including the Poole Museum and Brownsea Island.
Trains to Poole
Poole is easily accessible via South Western Railway services. Check schedules for Trains to Poole and get there hassle-free.
Yeovil Showground Fireworks
For those looking for an explosive Bonfire Night experience, Yeovil’s Fireworks Extravaganza is perfect. Known for its jaw-dropping pyrotechnics and fairground attractions, it’s a family favourite in Somerset. The event features food stalls, a bonfire, and an illuminated parade. More information available on the Yeovil Showground’s website.
Date: 5 November 2024
Location: Yeovil Showground, Somerset
Price: £5 entry fee per person
Trains to Yeovil
South Western Railway has daily services to Yeovil from London Waterloo, Exeter St. David’s and Salisbury.
Guy Fawkes Night Celebrations, Weymouth
For a Bonfire Night with a stunning coastal backdrop, head to Weymouth’s seafront for the Guy Fawkes Fireworks Celebrations. This traditional seaside town puts on a fantastic display of rockets and fireworks lighting up the sky as they reflect off the sea. There’s also a funfair, party games, a Guy Fawkes competition and a huge beach bonfire providing a fun and festive atmosphere for the whole family.
We recommend arriving early to grab a spot on the beach and enjoy the full spectacle of fireworks over the water.
Date: 5 November 2024
Location: Weymouth Seafront, Dorset
Price: This is a free event.
Trains to Weymouth
The beach is just a 10-minute walk from the station, making it an easy and convenient journey. Plan your train journey to Weymouth.
The Tar Barrels of Ottery St. Mary, Devon
For a truly unique Bonfire Night experience, visit the small town of Ottery St. Mary in Devon, where you can witness the extraordinary Tar Barrel tradition. This centuries-old custom sees brave locals – men, women, and even children – running through the streets carrying flaming barrels of tar on their backs. The origin of this tradition remains a mystery, but it’s believed to have started as a pagan ritual designed to cleanse the town of evil spirits.
If you’d prefer to avoid the fiery action, there’s plenty more to enjoy. The event features a large bonfire, a fireworks display, and a funfair, offering entertainment for all ages.
Date: 5 November 2024
Location: Ottery St. Mary, Devon
Price: This is a free event.
Getting there by train
Cranbrook is the nearest station to the event. From there, it’s a 20-minute ride on the number 4 bus to Ottery St. Mary. Be sure to check train schedules in advance.
SWR Rewards
You can avail of special offers and deals on attractions in London and the South West with SWR Rewards. Check what’s on offer in your destination.
Travel with Ease on Bonfire Night
Now that you know the best bonfire night activities and events happening in London and the South West, start planning your trip and book your train tickets with South Western Railway. We recommend booking in advance to find cheap train tickets. We offer various ticket types, including Sunday Out and Semi-Flex Return tickets, so you can find the best option for your journey. Those travelling in a group can make the most of our GroupSave tickets.
Staying Safe on Guy Fawkes
While Bonfire Night is a time for fun, it’s essential to stay safe. Always stand back from the firework displays and be aware of your surroundings. If traveling with children, ensure they remain supervised at all times, especially near open flames or large crowds.
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