Bonfire Night

Kristy Stott, Theatre Editor

Last Updated 23 October 2019

As the nights get longer and increasingly colder, there’s no better way to celebrate Bonfire Night in Manchester and the North than by gathering your family and friends together, by a huge bonfire, to watch the night sky explode with colour.

Although, there is a kind of alchemy to a good Bonfire Night. It’s not always just about the firework show itself – let’s be honest, that pretty much comes down to where’s closest. Lining up a cosy meal before as a buffer against the biting wind, and a warm dram to take the edge off the frostbite after – that’s what will make the shivering-in-a-muddy-field bit of the evening seem worth it. Alternatively, head to one of Manchester’s vantage points, and stay warm and dry with the smuggest cocktail you’re ever likely to sip.

If you’re looking for more traditional bonfire night shenanigans – get wrapped up and head for the Northern hills of Heaton Park or Platt Fields Park, if you’re looking for the biggest bonfire south of the city.

For those looking further afield, Light Up Lancaster is a two-day festival of art and light that illuminates the streets, gardens and historical venues of Lancaster; culminating with a grand finale when fireworks soar above Lancaster Castle.

Alternatively, head to the warm heights of Manchester’s 20 Stories, stay dry, enjoy the panoramic views and toast the city’s busy night sky.

Remember, remember to get your plans in for the 5th November. It’ll be here before you know it.

Here are our picks

1. Heaton Park

Heaton Park, Middleton Road, Higher Blackley, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M25 2SW - Visit now

If you’re after the highest point in Manchester, head for the hills of Heaton Park, host to an annual bonfire and fireworks display – which takes place on Bonfire Night, Tuesday 5 November this year. The gates open at 5 pm and the bonfire is lit at 7.30pm. In addition to the giant bonfire and superb fireworks display, there’s also a family funfair and tasty bonfire treats on offer.

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2. 20 Stories

Ian Jones

20 Stories, No. 1 Spinningfields, 1 Hardman Square, Manchester, M3 3EB - Visit now

Surely there’s no better place to watch the city’s skies light up with colour than Manchester’s highest bar and restaurant. Keep warm, sip on a hot cocktail and enjoy bursts of fireworks for miles around. While we can’t guarantee views as good elsewhere, take a look at our Roof Terraces In Manchester guide for more… down to earth alternatives.

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3. The Briton’s Protection

Ben Williams

The Briton’s Protection, 50 Great Bridgewater St, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M1 5LE - Visit now

Defrosting in town is an option for those wanting to make a late one of it – and what better to wrap chilled fingers around than a glass of whisky? From The Briton’s Protection to The Whiskey Jar, we’ve rounded up the best places for Scotch, bourbons, single malts and more here.

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4. Platt Fields Park

Photograph by Mike Peel via Wikimedia Commons

Platt Fields Park, Wilmslow Road, Fallowfield, Manchester, M14 6LA - Visit now

Fallowfield hosts one of the biggest displays in South Manchester. This year the event is on Tuesday 5th November, gates open at 5.00 pm and the bonfire is lit at 7.30pm. Expect the usual fairground fun and fireworks to follow. If you’re heading down to Platt Fields Park, make a pit stop on the hyper-lit strip that is Oxford Road and take your pick from some of the better options on Curry Mile – Mughli always gets our vote.

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