[title]
It’s nearly Bonfire Night, but before you go planning a fireworks display Guy Fawkes would die for, there are a few things you need to know first.
Namely, pyromaniacs will need to be aware that fireworks are actually banned from a certain time at night in the UK, meaning you can’t be setting off whizz bangs and Catherine wheels willy nilly throughout the night.
Giving a little bit of leeway for celebrations, the fireworks laws for November 5 are slightly different from the rest of the year. Here’s everything you need to know if you want to stage a legal firework display this year.
What time are fireworks banned on Bonfire Night?
On Guy Fawkes night it is illegal to set off fireworks between midnight and 7pm.
What are the normal rules for fireworks in the UK? (non-Bonfire Night)
For the rest of the year, fireworks are illegal in Britain after 11pm. That means that on November 5 Brits will have an extra hour to enjoy festive explosives.
The best Bonfire Night displays in London
London certainly isn’t short on spectacular Guy Fawkes displays – here are some of Time Out’s favourites.
1. Alexandra Palace Fireworks and Drone Festival
One of London’s biggest, baddest displays is, this year, also one of the spookiest. Ally Pally’s 2025 show takes place on Halloween weekend (Oct 31-Nov 1).
2. Blackheath Fireworks
This year Blackheath’s beloved display is back for the first time since 2019. Lewisham Council has teamed up with Slammin Events (the company behind Ally Pally's display) for the event’s grand return on November 1.
3. Dulwich Fireworks Display
If you’re lucky enough to already have a ticket for this display at Dulwich Sports Club (which sells out pretty much every year), expect a huge display as well as live music and a vast array of food and drink options.
Find Time Out’s ultimate guide to the best fireworks displays in London here.
Get the latest and greatest from the Big Smoke – from news and reviews to events and trends. Just follow our Time Out London WhatsApp channel.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out London newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox.