5 of the UK’s best bonfire night events 2023

There’s one word to describe the Lewes Bonfire Night: legendary.

It’s extraordinary how the annual event — the biggest firework display in the UK —  in this otherwise genteel little market town in East Sussex has become internationally famous for its riotous celebrations. It’s big, it’s bold and it’s brash with a fiery parade through the town’s streets that borders on the anarchic.

To say the locals take it seriously is an understatement; the seven Bonfire Societies each of which have their own bonfire site begin preparations while the embers of the previous year’s event are still warm. The parade of drum beating locals, dressed in 16th-century garb and wielding burning torches, is a spectacle not to be missed. The giant effigies of well-known figures from politicians to royalty who’ve fallen from grace, carried aloft and then flung on the bonfires are a major comedic highlight.

Where to stay: The roads into Lewes are closed from around 4pm on the day and it’s best to travel in by train. Ockenden Manor Hotel & Spa is the perfect base for a long weekend in Sussex, within easy reach of Lewes and offering a tranquil retreat away from the madding crowds.

The Scots aren't shy when it comes to lighting up the November night sky with revelry.

Bonfire night in Inverness is one of the best. The annual Civic Bonfire and Firework display, which takes place at Bught Park is one of the highlights of the Highland Council’s Inverness Winter Festival. Thousands of spectators flock to Bught Park where you’ll also find a funfair and other entertainments, as well as the bonfire site. Or, you can watch the Catherine wheels and rockets explode in the sky from the banks of the River Ness.

Where to stay: The celebrated Ness Walk is a hotel that offers the best of both worlds - with its gated entrance and tranquil setting, you’ll be treated to a peaceful Scottish countryside vibe while still being in the heart of the city.

The capital shines brightly on both sides of The Thames but the Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival, dubbed ‘The Glastonbury of Fireworks’, is widely considered the best destination for celebrating bonfire night in London.  

This year’s line up has the extra wow factor: on Friday 3 and Saturday 4 November, you can come and get a taste of Bavaria at the UK’s largest German Bier Festival and dance to live music with sets from tribute acts Joel Coombes: Elton John and Rogue Minogue: Kylie. And in addition to the amazing fireworks display, there’s also an ice rink you can skate around while listening to a disco soundtrack.

Where to stay: Follow an anti-establishment celebration with a stay at The Athenaeum - an art-deco beauty that’s been standing in the heart of Mayfair since 1850. Step outside and you’re opposite Green Park, step in and you’re in the heart of contemporary glamour. Head to stylish Belgravia for a serene retreat at The Hari, set among grand London squares. Or for a Knightsbridge night to remember, a suite at The Capital Hotel, just around the corner from Harrods, is on the cards.