The Best Fireworks Displays in Dorset

It seems like only yesterday spring was turning to summer, but whisper it quietly – bonfire night is fast approaching. We’re less than one month away from the big night and all over the country everyone’s preparing their celebrations.

Here in Dorset, we love bonfire night. It’s a traditional celebration, one which welcomes everyone (and their dogs!) to stand together, share a thought, have a drink and watch spectacular fireworks and roaring fires together, battling the briskness of the cold autumn air.

Indeed, we like to think that our Dorset holiday cottages are the perfect place from which to enjoy all of Dorset’s celebrations, but where exactly should you be heading? Here’s our list of the best fireworks displays in Dorset:

Lyme Regis Fireworks & Bonfire Night – 3^rd November

Lyme Regis is one of the most beautiful and charming towns in Dorset, so it’s little surprise that it’s been a popular British holiday destination for well over a hundred years.

Held right on Lyme Regis’ front beach, Lyme Regis Fireworks & Bonfire night is a certifiable bonfire-night delight with an amazing firework display over the ocean and local producers and pubs serving up delectable food and drink to keep you warm and happy throughout the evening. Everything kicks off from 6.30pm. For more information on this Lyme Regis event, take a read of our blog: Lyme Regis Fireworks 2022.

Tar Barrels of Ottery St. Mary – 5^th November

Far from your ‘classic’ bonfire night, the Tar Barrels of Ottery St. Mary is a tradition that’s hundreds of years old and particular to this one town.

In this celebration, members of the town carry tar barrels ablaze on their backs through the town, creating a truly once-in-a-lifetime spectacle that draws in both locals and tourists. Timing changes a little year on year, so it’s best to keep up to date by visiting their website.

Sherborne Castle Fireworks Extravaganza – 3^rd November

Famed throughout Dorset for its terrific fireworks show, Sherborne Castle plays host to a ‘fireworks extravaganza’, with gates opening from 5pm with live music, entertainment, a funfair and the bonfire and fireworks kicking off from 7pm and 7.30pm respectively.

Poole Fireworks and Bonfire Night – 5^th November

Looking for an event on bonfire night itself? Well, head on over to Poole Quay for 5pm to take part in what is one of the biggest nights in the Poole calendar.

On-site is a host of entertainment options for you and the kids, including live music, jugglers and fire eaters, alongside the traditional bonfire and a huge fireworks display. Entry is completely free, too!

Dorchester Rugby Club Fireworks – 3^rd November

Yet another option, Dorchester Rugby Club will be hosting their own bonfire night celebration in what has become a very popular event at the club.

Open to members and non-members alike, the event begins at 6.30pm with fireworks at 8pm with music from Regulation 9 and food in the form of a traditional hog roast, jacket potatoes, salad wraps and a BBQ, making it an appealing event for the whole family.

Butchers Coppice Family Fireworks Display & Bonfire – 3^rd November

Want to experience the evening from the city? Well, Bournemouth won’t disappoint thanks to the huge fireworks party held annually at Butchers Coppice Activity Centre, which opens from 5.30pm with a Guy Fawkes competition before the fireworks display kicks off at 7.30pm.

Fireworks display aside, you’ll find a hog roast, mince pies, mulled wine and all sorts of bonfire night goodies too!