As the autumn nights draw in, the Tonbridge area prepares for a week of dazzling firework spectaculars and roaring bonfires. Whether you’re looking for a massive choreographed show or a simple, cosy community gathering, you’ll find a perfect display within a short drive.
Weekend One: The Must-See Spectaculars
The first weekend of November brings the biggest shows, kicking off with the highly anticipated displays in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge itself.
On Saturday, November 1st, the skies light up with the Royal Tunbridge Wells Charity Fireworks at Dunorlan Park (6 miles from Tonbridge). This is a spectacular event featuring a huge show choreographed to music, with the fireworks reflecting beautifully over the park’s lake. Gates open at 5:30 PM, with the display starting at 7:00 PM.
The star of the weekend is the Tonbridge Annual Fireworks Display on Sunday, November 2nd. Held at the Racecourse Sports Ground right in the heart of town, this is the flagship local event. Organised by the Tonbridge Round Table, the entire show is fully choreographed to music by the world-class Phoenix Fireworks. Gates open at 5:00 PM, with the display commencing at 6:30 PM.
Mid-Week and Friday Night Fun
Keep the bonfire celebrations going with two great Friday night options on Friday, November 7th.
Just up the road in Hildenborough, Nizels Golf & Country Club (3 miles) hosts a dazzling display. This is a brilliant night out, featuring a children’s disco from 5:30 PM and the main fireworks starting at 7:30 PM, plus plenty of food and drink available.
A little further north, Radnor House Sevenoaks Fireworks Night (7 miles) welcomes the community with games stalls, food, and a display that starts around 6:30 PM after gates open at 5:00 PM.
Weekend Two: Community, Bonfires, and Quieter Choices
For a strong dose of community spirit, Saturday, November 8th has several fantastic options.
A lovely local choice is the Shipbourne School Firework & Bonfire Party (3 miles). This is ideal if you have younger children, as it’s an early evening event focused on community fun. Gates open at 4:15 PM for a bonfire, fireworks, family disco, and a BBQ, wrapping up by 6:00 PM. Family tickets come in at £25.
Paddock Wood Primary PTA Fireworks are hosting their annual display. Gates open at 16:00 with fireworks kicking off at 17:30.
In Sevenoaks, the Riverhead Fireworks (7 miles) at the 3rd Sevenoaks Scout HQ caters for everyone by offering two separate displays. The Quieter Display starts early at 5:00 PM (gates 4:00 PM), making it perfect for toddlers and sensitive ears. Later on, the main Louder Display kicks off at 7:30 PM (gates 6:30 PM). Remember that tickets for both Riverhead events must be bought in advance.
The Ultimate Spectacle
If you’re willing to travel slightly further, the Leeds Castle Fireworks Spectacular is well worth the extra journey. While it’s about 15–20 miles away, it is routinely voted the biggest and most spectacular display in the South East. Running across Saturday, November 8th and Sunday, November 9th, this is a massive production complete with music, lasers, fairground rides, and full-day access to the beautiful castle grounds. The main display starts at 5:30 PM.
Tip: Given the popularity of all these events, we strongly recommend pre-booking all tickets to guarantee entry and secure the best price.
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