Now that Halloween is dead and buried, the next big event is Fireworks night, officially this Friday 5th November. Here is a round up of some of the best shows in the UK to ensure that your bonfire night goes off with a bang.
London. Source: thisislondon
London is the city where it all began as Guy Fawkes attempted to blow up the House of Lords in 1605. A number of spectacular shows are taking place across the capital to mark the occasion. Plenty of the larger London parks hold free fireworks displays. On Friday the 5th you can go to Crystal Palace, Clapham Common, Walthamstow or Wimbledon Park. Battersea Park, Blackheath Common and Legoland Windsor are holding shows on Saturday 7th and Richmond Park and Victoria Park are celebrating on Sunday the 8th to name but a few.
Alton Towers. Source: thisisleek.co.uk
Alton Towers is celebrating its 30th birthday and the opening of their new ride TH13TEEN with the ultimate fireworks party. It is running for the whole weekend 5th-7th November and the park is extending its opening hours, giving guests the chance to experience all the excitement and adrenaline of the rides in the dark. The Youth Hostel Association (YHA) is offering their members a discount on tickets to the theme park. If you are a member, you can claim your discount by calling 0871 222 4001 and quoting YHA or by visiting the Alton Towers website.
As Guy Fawkes was born in York we thought we would investigate the best options near his home city. Roundhay Park in Leeds is renowned for hosting the biggest FREE bonfire and fireworks display in the North.
Lewes. Source: gotolondres.com
Possibly the most traditional of all is held in Lewes, East Sussex. Reminiscent of the Gunpowder Plot in 1605, the burning on the stake of 17 Protestants in the town in 1555 and the restoration of a Protestant King in 1688, the Lewes celebrations are unrivalled across the UK and are organised by the towns very own bonfire council. Unfortunately the celebrations are exclusively for residents of Lewes and the narrow cobbled streets can become overcrowded so head to the surrounding hills for the best views of the town.
If you are unable to attend a fireworks show this weekend, don’t worry! The 13th November marks the Lord Mayors Show in London and features another stunning fireworks display on the River Thames. The Lord Mayors Show, which encompasses a parade, procession and festival, first took place in 1215 and has become an annual celebration of London’s heritage. The end of the procession is symbolised by a gigantic firework display on the River Thames between Waterloo and Blackfriars Bridge. Join the crowds for this famous show which starts at 5pm.
So wrap up warm and enjoy the evening with a mug of hot toddy, toffee apples, toasted marshmallows and roasted chestnuts.