Lewes Bonfire 2025: What To Expect, When It’s Happening, And Why Locals Say “Don’t Travel In”

The famous Lewes Bonfire returns on Wednesday, November 5, bringing fiery torchlit processions, spectacular fireworks, and centuries-old traditions to the historic town.

This year’s celebrations will see six Bonfire Societies take to the streets, with around 3,000 people taking part in one of the UK’s most iconic – and intense – Bonfire Night events.

Organised by the societies themselves, under the Lewes Bonfire Council, the event features a series of torchlit parades winding through the town before culminating at firesites where the bonfires and firework displays take place.

Locals only – and here’s why

Lewes Bonfire is officially for residents only, with organisers urging people not to travel into the town to watch.

Roads will be closed from 4.45pm, and no trains will stop at Lewes after 3pm.

The town’s narrow streets, dense crowds, and open flames mean it can be dangerous for visitors – but for those who don’t want to miss out, the event will once again be live-streamed by Lewes the Podcast and Rocket FM from the War Memorial, so it can be enjoyed safely from anywhere.

The six societies

Each of the six societies has its own unique procession and firesite:

• Cliffe (founded 1853) – Firesite at Ham Lane (from 9.45pm). Tickets £10, available from local outlets.

• Commercial Square (founded 1855) – Firesite at Landport (from 9.45pm). Free entry.

• Lewes Borough (founded 1853) – Firesite at Landport Bottom (from 9.45pm). Tickets £10.

• Southover (founded 1886, reformed 2005) – Firesite at Mountfield Road (from 9.45pm). Tickets £10.

• South Street (founded 1913) – Firesite on the Railway Land (from 8.30pm). Tickets £10, under-16s free.

• Waterloo (reformed 1964) – Firesite at Malling Recreation Ground (from 9.30pm). Free, with donations welcomed.

Timings and what to expect

The first processions begin around 5pm, with bonfire and firework displays running until about 11pm.

The night is loud and dramatic – with firecrackers, drumming, and flaming torches lighting up the streets.

Families attending are advised to bring ear defenders for children, as the noise can be overwhelming.

Food and drink will be available from pubs and local vendors across the town, though many pubs operate on a ticket-only basis and queues can be long.

Accessibility

Unfortunately, due to the size of the crowds, steep hills, and distances between sites, the event is not suitable for anyone with mobility issues.

Public toilets will be open behind the Premier Inn, on Market Lane, and near the Black Horse pub.

Final reminder

Officials at Lewes District Council and Visit Lewes have once again emphasised that the event is not open to visitors and are urging people not to travel to the town.

For the full live stream and the latest updates, visit the Lewes Bonfire Council or Lewes the Podcast websites.