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By Robin McKelvie
The explosive tradition of Guy Fawkes Night, or ‘Bonfire Night’, began way back in 1605 when
he was at the crux of a plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament. Today up and down the length of
Britain bonfires are lit and volleys of fireworks ripple the dark skies on the big night and on the
surrounding evenings.
Join us as we take you on a tour of the most dramatic bonfire night extravaganzas so you can
plan your own Guy Fawkes festivities.
Surely the most famous Guy Fawkes festivities in England. Lewes sees not one but six
competing bonfire societies dress up and walk the streets swaying blazing torches as they head for
their various bonfires accompanied by beating drums and bangers. The evening culminates with
spectacular fireworks.
→ Be There: Free. Thursday 5th November
One of the most spectacular fireworks displays in Great Britain lays claim to having the most interesting guys. You can join the procession and check out the ‘celebrity guy’ atop the giant 30ft bonfire – who has in the past been Gordon Brown and Anne Robinson.
→ Be There: Saturday 7th November. Ticketed
→ See more and find deals in our United Kingdom Destination Guide