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The UK’s 5 biggest Bonfire Night displays

From Lewes to Cambridge, here’s where to find the most extravagant fifth of November celebrations

Amy Houghton
Written by
Amy Houghton
Contributing writer
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Photograph: Shutterstock
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It’s almost time for Brits to gather together to remember the fifth of November. Fireworks will be lit and bonfires set ablaze all over the country in little over a week’s time, marking the anniversary of Guy Fawkes’ gunpowder plot. 

The great thing about Bonfire Night is that it can be a intimate event at a small local park or an all-out extravaganza taking over entire towns. If you’re a ‘go hard or go home’ kind of person, this list is for you. These are the UK’s biggest bonfire displays. 

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Lewes Bonfire Night

The bonfire night to end all bonfire nights, November 5 celebrations in Lewes are stuff of legend. Around 30,000 people gather on the streets each year to watch or take part in a blazing procession, congregate around several huge bonfires and and watch a shimmering fireworks display.

Alexandra Palance Fireworks Festival 

With a massive capacity of 100,000, Ally Pally is host to London’s biggest fireworks show. Beyond the magnificent fireworks, attendees are treated to DJ sets, ice skating, street food and, this year, a choreographed drone show. 

Midsummer Common, Cambridge 

The extravaganza at Midsummer Common in Cambridge is billed as the largest (free!) fireworks show in the eastern part of the UK. It can accommodate up to 25,000 punters and this year’s edition is set to be the ‘biggest and best ever’ with more fireworks than ever before. 

Betley Bonfire, Cheshire 

Betley Bonfire in Betley (near Crewe) burns one of the largest bonfires in the country and is one of the biggest displays in the North. Accompanying the blaze is a huge burst of colourful fireworks and a large funfair. 

Fawkes Festival, Edinburgh

More than 15,000 people are expected to attend this year’s Fawkes Festival at the Royal Highland Centre and Showground in Edinburgh, making it one of Scotland’s biggest bonfire displays. This year is the first time at the new venue and visitors can expect DJ sets, fairground rides and laser displays alongside the traditional bonfire and fireworks. 

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