Bonfire night in London is almost upon up – and that means one thing – lots and lots of fireworks! Whether you’re looking for displays to watch with kids, or for a romantic autumn date, we’ve got the rundown on the best Bonfire Night firework displays in the Big Smoke!
Table of Contents:
- When is Bonfire Night?
- Battersea Fireworks
- Alexandra Palace Bonfire Night
- Dulwich Fireworks
- Wimbledon Park Bonfire Night
- Walthamstow Forest Light Show
- Hammersmith & Fulham Fawkes Festival
- Richmond Bonfire Night
- Barnes Fireworks Display
When is Bonfire Night?
Bonfire Night is officially on Sunday 5th November 2023. However, the fireworks displays throughout London will be on different days throughout the weekend. Bonfire Night falls on the 5th of November every single year.
Why Does London Celebrate Bonfire Night?
Bonfire Night is a day where people up and down the UK remember the failing acts of Guy Fawkes and his accomplices. On the 5th November 1605, Guy Fawkes, along with 5 key accomplices and others planned to blow up the House of Parliament intending to kill the King and members of Parliament on state opening day. Whilst the origins of the plot are unknown it is commonly thought the intention of the Gunpowder Plot was to be able to reinstate Catholic rule in the UK.
Unfortunately for Guy, the plot was foiled the night before when it is reported that an anonymous later warned Lord Monteagle (a Catholic) to not attend Parliament the following day. An initial search took place on the 4th November, and Guy Fawkes – who is believed to have played a relatively small role in the whole campaign – was caught in the cellar with gunpowder.
Each of the co-conspirators was either killed or imprisoned in the Tower of London (one of London’s iconic landmarks) by the 12th November. Those who survived were tried for High Treason and sentenced to death.
Ever since, the 5th November has been celebrated as a time that the Gunpowder Plot was foiled. Ironically it’s traditional to celebrate with fireworks, bonfires, and effigies of Fawkes – and that is how London came to have Bonfire Night.
Battersea Park Firework Nights
Battersea Park is holding not one but two fireworks nights over the weekend. Taking place on Saturday 4th and Sunday 4th.
The fireworks display on Saturday is expected to begin around 8pm, and visitors to the park (who will need tickets) can explore the brand new Bonfire Village complete with DJ and take in the large bonfire.
Sunday’s display is set to start at around 7.10pm, and as this is family night you can also treat kids to seeing Bluey and Bingo, as well as a fire show.
You can expect fairground rides, a food market, festive drinks, and of course the magnificent fireworks.
If you didn’t manage to get tickets to Battersea’s Bonfire Night then no worries – Lift 109 at the Power Station are doing special journeys up the chimney to get the best views in the house!
Alexandra Palace Fireworks
Another two day affair, those visiting Alexandra Palace can choose between Friday 3rd November and Saturday 4th November for their display.
Alongside the fireworks, Ally Pally will also play host to the UK’s largest German Bier Festival, and be showing tribute acts for both Elton John and Kylie Minogue. You can also have a quick spin around their London ice rink, the perfect way to begin the festive season!
Fireworks start at 9pm on Friday and 8pm on Saturday! Tickets are required for entry.
Dulwich Firework Display
For a super kid friendly Bonfire Night in London, head over to Dulwich where children can enter for just £1.
The event is held at Dulwich Sports Club and the fireworks are expected to start at around 7pm.
Tickets are required for entry.
Wimbledon Park Musical Fireworks
Wimbledon Park is known for their musical Bonfire Nights. With two displays, running both on two nights, you can take the kids to the earlier magical themed display at 6.45pm. Whereas those without little ones can enjoy a second later display themed to one hit wonders, starting at 8.30pm.
There will be a funfair on the ground which will close at 10pm.
As with other displays, tickets are needed.
Walthamstow Forest Light Show
Not a fireworks fan? Walthamstow Forest’s light show will be the ideal Bonfire Night activity for you. The listed building is expected to be lit up with lights, projections, and fire effects. There will also be street food, a bar, and street performers to keep you entertained.
The event runs from 3rd November through to the 5th November 2023, opening at 3.30pm and closing at 9pm.
Tickets are needed to enter and start at £5 for kids, and £8.50 for those over 16.
Hammersmith & Fulham Fawkes Festival
In Bishops Park and Ravenscourt Park on both Friday 3rd and Saturday 4th November, you’ll be treated to a laser light show. This will be the largest show of its kind in London, with three shows every night – everyone with a ticket can attend all three. The show is themed to ‘a night at the movies’ and will feature famous film scores.
Alongside, you can indulge in street food, such as pizza, churros, and pizza. There will also be a bar to serve up cocktails and other alcoholic beverages.
You will need a ticket to enter.
Richmond Fireworks
Richmond FC are hosting Bonfire Night in this neighbourhood – at Richmond Athletic Grounds. The theme for the fireworks hosted on 5th November, is ‘monarchy.’ The display is expected to start at 7pm.
Doors will open from 4.30pm when the accompanying funfair will open. As with other displays, there will be lots of food available from burgers, to pancakes, to mulled wine.
Adult tickets are £12 and kids are £6.
Barnes Bonfire Night
Located in Barnes Village at the Club House, the fireworks will be taking place on Saturday 4th November. A traditional bonfire, with the chance for the best guy to win the opportunity to light the fire, mulled wine, and a BBQ will accompany the fireworks.
This is a ticketed event, with prices starting at £5.50 for kids, and £16.50 for adults.
About The London Eats List
Start getting into the festive spirit in London with our guides. From the best spots to get mulled wine in the city, to the tastiest Christmas treats, as well as where to find the best Christmas lights – we have all the tips you need!