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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, you can let your wellies fester under the stairs for another year by going instead to one of Manchester’s highest vantage points. Stay dry and sit back with the smuggest cocktail you’re ever likely to sip.
If you’re looking for more traditional bonfire night shenanigans – head for the Northern hills of Heaton Park or Platt Fields Park, if you want the biggest bonfire in the South of the city. Fast becoming the heart of the Levenshulme community, The Klondyke promises a vibrant set-up too.
For those looking further afield, Light Up Lancaster is a two-day festival of art and light which 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 Cloud 23, 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
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1. Light Up Lancaster 2019
Image courtesy Robin Zahler Light Up Lancaster at The Storey Creative Industries Centre, Lancaster, 1–2 November 2019, free entry - Find Out More
Festival of light and art Light Up Lancaster returns to the city with installations, projections, performance and fireworks illuminating the city’s historic buildings, charming streets and hidden squares.
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2. 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, Monday 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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3. Cloud 23
Cloud 23, 303 Deansgate, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 4LQ - Visit now
From the elevated position of Beetham Tower’s 23rd floor, Cloud 23 has stunning views of Manchester. Keep warm and well oiled 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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4. 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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5. 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 Monday 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. One we’re particularly fond of is Mughli, the Indian restaurant leading a bit of a food revolution in the area.
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6. The Klondyke
The Klondyke The Klondyke, 1 Burnage Road, Manchester, M19 2HQ - Visit now
It’s been around for almost 100 years, and now the Klondyke in Levenshulme is fast becoming the heart of the community. Bonfire Night at The Klondyke is happening on Monday 5 November, the firework display starts at 7pm – there’ll be a bonfire, clay pizza oven, vegan curry, hot dogs and a bouncy castle. Tickets must be bought in advance.
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