November the fifth is just around the corner, and that means it’s time for London’s annual Guy Fawkes night celebration. If you’ll be in London on this day, you’re in for a surprise but a good one!
Join the locals as they gather around bonfires and witness mesmerising fireworks displays across the city. Not only this, but the day is also a celebration of British culture and rich history. Book your stay with the opulent Signature Town House Hotel London to experience the charm of Guy Fawkes night with a citywide party this year! Read on to learn everything about this special day and do some planning before you see and delight in it all for yourself.
What Is Guy Fawkes Night about?
Also known as the Bonfire Night, this is a centuries-old tradition and an annual celebration in London that commemorates the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605, and it’s one of the most popular public holidays in the UK.
On this day, people gather around bonfires to burn the effigies of Guy Fawkes, the leader of the Gunpowder Plot. Also, watch dazzling fireworks displays that light up the night sky as you attend one of the many spectacular concerts and street fairs, minutes away from your enviably located hotel near Hyde Park London.
What Happened During the Gunpowder Plot?
Guy Fawkes and his fellow Catholic conspirators planned to blow up the Houses of Parliament and assassinate King James I in 1605, hoping to spark a Catholic uprising. On the night of November 5th, they hid 36 barrels of gunpowder in the cellars beneath Parliament. However, one of the conspirators sent a warning letter that was intercepted by the king’s men. Fawkes and his co-conspirators were arrested and executed for treason.
What is the History of the Celebrations?
In the aftermath of the failed Gunpowder Plot, the Parliament declared November the fifth a National Day of Thanksgiving, and the first bonfire night celebrations took place in 1606. The tradition of burning Guy Fawkes effigies emerged in the 17th century, as did the popular rhyme “Remember, remember the fifth of November.” By the Victorian era, this night was officially recognised as a public holiday, and fireworks displays became a popular addition to the celebrations.
In the early 1900s, fireworks manufacturers began to market their products specifically for this night, which led to the holiday becoming more commonly known as ‘Fireworks Night.’
Some of the most popular fireworks displays include:
The Covent Garden fireworks is an intimate display that takes place in the heart of Covent Garden, moments away from some of the best family hotels in London with close-up views of the event. So, make sure to look out for special offers and reserve your stay! You can also head to the London Eye for a spectacular display of fireworks with a view of the iconic London Eye itself.
If you are in London, it’s a great celebration to be a part of, enjoy the fireworks while discovering London’s notorious history! All you need to do is keep an eye out for special offers on London hotels in the heart of the city and celebrate this memorable day along with many other prime London attractions.
