Bonfire Night

Remember, remember the 5th of November. More than 400 years on, Guy Fawkes’ failed 1605 gunpowder plot to demolish the Houses of Parliament is marked by crowds craning their necks, ooh-ing and ahh-ing as explosions decorate the night sky. Then we gather around a huge bonfire and burn an effigy of Fawkes – made from old clothes and newspaper. Strange.

1. Bristol Zoo, Bristol

For all those little ones (and animals) who are scared of fireworks. Bristol Zoo Gardens uses noiseless fireworks in this very unusual display. No Bang! Crack! Whoosh! Just pretty colours falling through the sky for everyone to enjoy.

2. Lewes, East Sussex

The cobbled streets here are filled with a raucous parade, in a firework celebration unmatched across England. Drum beats sound and flaming torches light the way, while various societies dress up, competing. Later on, it’s time to climb up to a bonfire site on the hills for a great view of the fireworks.

3. Lord Mayor’s Firework Display, London

The annual Lord Mayor’s Firework display takes place the week after Bonfire Night. During the day you can cheer on the Mayor’s procession as it makes its way through central London. More than half a tonne of giant fireworks then mark the beginning of a new mayoral year. Best view is from Victoria Embankment.

4. Ragley Hall, Warwickshire

Do fireworks in style at this country estate, family home of the Marquess and Marchioness of Hertford. Within the ample grounds are fairground rides for children, food stalls and a bonfire by the lake. Toffee apple? Yes please. The Ragley Hall firework display is set to music.

5. Midsummer Common, Cambridge

This free firework display attracts around 30,000 spectators and relies on donations from the public and local businesses to keep going. There is a funfair all evening long to add to the entertainment. Fire dancers also entertain the crowds.

6. Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival, Somerset

This is the oldest carnival of its kind, dating to 1847. Bridgwater Squibs add to the spectacle. These are giant fireworks made especially for Bridgwater Carnival, tied to poles and held above the ‘squibber’s’ head. The streets are abuzz with a parade full of colour and sound.

7. Battersea Park, London

Mulled wine and roasted chestnuts are on the menu for firework-goers in Battersea Park. This is one of London’s most popular fireworks events, which takes place in a green oasis in south London. The event is designed by Pains Fireworks, and is digitally choreographed to music around a theme.

8. Roundhay Park, Leeds

Tens of thousands of visitors look to the sky at this free community firework display in vast Roundhay Park, three miles north of Leeds city centre. Get there early to make sure you get a decent viewing position. The bonfire alone is worth a trip.

9. Fireworks at the Fort, Segedunum, North Tyneside

Wrap up warm for a firework display that lights up Segedunum Fort, gateway to Hadrian’s Wall. This 73-mile wall across Britain was built for Emperor Hadrian. Before the display Segedunum is open for free – a great chance to discover the history of the area.

10. West Park, Goole, Yorkshire

Bonfire night in West Park is all about lanterns, made in the run up to 5th November by the whole community including local schools and youth centres. Even the bonfire is a work of art. Children take part in a lantern procession before the firework display.