There are some spectacular bonfires and firework displays across Cumbria around November 5, the anniversary of Guy Fawkes’s attempt to blow up the Houses of Parliament.

An organised display is safer, cheaper and much more fun than doing fireworks at home. And the best way to get to the display is by Stagecoach bus.

Adult bus fares are capped at a maximum of £3 for a single journey, which makes bus travel a bargain. You don’t have to worry about parking and everyone can enjoy a drink because nobody has to be the designated driver.

Stagecoach also offers a great deal for families where up to five people can head out to enjoy the many bonfire and firework displays being staged around the county next month without having to think about parking, thanks to their group bus tickets.

Do leave your dog at home though as pets can find fireworks distressing and many events do not allow entry with pets.

Below we list some of the fabulous displays easily reached by bus with details of the relevant routes and nearest bus stop.

Check times online – at www.stagecoachbus.com/timetables – and don’t forget to download the Stagecoach Bus app from the Apple App Store or Google’s Play Store.

Saturday November 1 2025

Carlisle Fireshow, Bitts Park
Bus routes: 79 from Dumfries / Annan, 104 from Penrith, 300 from Workington, 685 from Brampton and all Carlisle City Centre services

The city’s 36th Fireshow this year celebrates Cumberland's maritime history and heritage.

It is the biggest event in the region attracting more than 35,000 people to see the centrepiece bonfire and more than 2,000 spectacular sparkling fireworks, set to music. The fireshow begins at 6.30pm. Admission is free with a bucket collection for local charities. More info here

Windermere Fireworks and music. Windermere RUFC, Dawes Meadow, Longlands Road, Bowness
Bus routes: 6 from Barrow and Ulverston, 555 & 599 from Kendal, and Windermere.
Bus stop: Bowness, Royalty Cinema

A family fireworks display with three live bands, street food available, real ales and mulled wine served at the bar. £10 adults, £5 children (5-14), £25 family (two adults, two children). Gates open and entertainment from 5.30pm, fireworks start at 7pm. No personal fireworks, sparklers or dogs.
More info here

Hawkshead bonfire and fireworks, Hawkshead Recreation Ground
Bus route: 505 from Ambleside (last bus back 8.43pm, through to Kendal
Bus stop: Hawkshead Village

Join the village of Hawkshead for their bonfire night and fireworks display. Gates at the Recreation Ground open at 5pm; donations on entry. Hot food and drinks will be available, as well as sweets, candy floss, and LED foam lights.

Sunday November 2

Cockermouth Firework display, Memorial Gardens
Bus route: X5 from Workington (last bus back, 8.39pm)
Bus stop: Cockermouth, Main Street

This is a free event organised by the town council on the opposite bank of the River Derwent to the town. There are trade stands selling refreshments and glowing toys, food stalls and a children’s fun fair. Access is over Gote Bridge. Millers Bridge is closed during the display. 5pm-7pm, fireworks let off at 6pm.

Swanfire night, Swan Hotel and Spa, Newby Bridge
Bus route: 6 and X6 from Barrow and Ulverston, and from Kendal.
Bus stop: Newby Bridge

Enjoy a fully-stocked bar, delicious barbecue, pizza van, full firework display and a brilliant bonfire with two fabulous firework displays. 5pm to 8pm, and entry is free.
More info here

Wednesday November 5

Bonfire night at Low Wood Bay, Low Wood Bay Resort and Spa, between Windermere and Ambleside
Bus routes: 555
Bus stop: Low Wood Hotel

Low Wood Bay Resort and Spa is once again hosting its annual fireworks display to mark Bonfire Night. Display scheduled for approximately 7.30pm-7.45pm. Tickets; £12.50 adults; £7.50 children; £30 family ticket (2 adults & 2 children).
More info here

Vickerstown FC Fireworks, Park Vale, Mill Lane, Walney, Barrow.
Bus routes: 6/X6 from Ulverston to Barrow then 2 from Ramsden Square to Mill Lane Shops.
Bus stop: Mill Lane Shops

Fun family night with Taylor’s candy cart and ride, Old Smithy chippy van, and Clementine & Willow Kitchen. Onsite toilets. Starts 5.30pm. Cash on collection for tickets; tickets to be collected before the event to give guaranteed quick entry.
More info here


Hawcoat Park RUFC fireworks, Hawcoat Lane, Barrow
Bus route: 1
Bus stop: Hawcoat Lane

Gates open 6pm, bonfire from 6.30pm, fireworks approximately 7.30pm. Hot and cold drinks, burgers and hot dogs, and bar. Adults £5, children £3, on the gate or in advance.
More info here

Furness Rugby Club Bonfire Night Bonanza, Croslands Park, Barrow
Bus route: 6 & X6
Bus stop: Strawberry Road

Treats for the whole family, from sweets, candy floss and hot food, to the full bar inside and a bottle bar outside. Gates open at 5.30pm, the bonfire will be lit at 6.30 and the fireworks go off at 7pm. Cash payments on the gate - £3 per person, £10 family ticket.
More info here

Penrith Young Farmers Bonfire, Old Football Pitch, Inglewood Rd, Stoneybeck, Penrith
Bus route: 104
Bus stop: Stoneybeck Inn

Penrith YFC returns with their annual bonfire, back bigger and better this year. Fire lit at 6.30pm. fireworks to follow. Hot food and drinks will be available from 6.30pm. Cash is preferred, donations on the gate.
More info here

Friday November 7

Community fireworks Kendal, Kendal Rugby Club, Mint Bridge, Shap Road
Bus Route: Multiple routes to Kendal Bus Station (25 minute walk to Rugby Club), or 43A (Morrisons)
Bus Stop: Kendal Bus Station / Morrisons (Only outward journey)

Kendal Rugby Club once again brings a professional firework display to Mint Bridge. A range of food vendors, stalls and other activities will be available. You can also purchase VIP tickets giving exclusive access to the Clubhouse, balcony and Lounge Bar with supper and a glass of mulled wine included. Gates open at 5pm with the firework display at 7.30pm.
More info here