Bonfire Night in London

Each year, London marks the historic moment when Guy Fawkes and his motley crew attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and King James I in the Gunpowder Plot of 5 November 1605 – the day became known as Guy Fawkes Day, or more commonly Bonfire Night.

Every November, bonfires are lit on which effigies known as “guys” are burned; while the skies are filled with colourful fireworks. It’s also a time to enjoy traditional Bonfire Night food and drink, alongside music, funfairs and family activities.

Bonfire Night is also known as Fireworks' Night or Guy Fawkes Night. It's a British tradition dating back to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, when Catholic conspirator Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament and King James I.

To this day, it is customary for the cellars in the Houses of Parliament to be searched by the Yeoman of the Guard before each State Opening of Parliament.

The anniversary of Fawkes' arrest on 5 November (sometimes known as Guy Fawkes Day) is celebrated each year with bonfires and fireworks in London. Effigies of Guy Fawkes ("the guy") are often burned on top of the bonfires. You can look forward to numerous local firework displays in London featuring Bonfire Night food and drink, family entertainment and funfairs.