LONDON, UK. 31st October 2025 – Car sharing marketplace Turo has revealed the top five free fireworks displays worth driving to ahead of Bonfire Night, with many Brits leaving planning too late for ticketed events searching for a last minute option.
With many of the UK’s most impressive displays offering free entry and no advance booking required, having access to a car opens up opportunities to experience truly memorable fireworks events across the country. From coastal spectaculars to traditional village celebrations, these locations offer something beyond the standard ticketed display.
Rory Brimmer, UK Managing Director of car sharing marketplace Turo, commented: “Bonfire Night is one of those quintessentially British celebrations that brings communities together, and some of the most spectacular displays happen to be completely free to attend. The beauty of these events is their spontaneity – no advance booking, no sold-out tickets, just turn up and enjoy the show.
“With Turo, families and groups can travel together comfortably across the weekend, with space for warm blankets, flasks of hot chocolate, and everyone you want to share the experience with. No waiting for late-night trains or expensive taxis home – just the freedom to enjoy the evening at your own pace and head home when you’re ready.”
Turo’s Top 5 Free Fireworks Displays
Harrogate Stray Bonfire and Fireworks, North Yorkshire
Best for: Traditional community atmosphere in a spa town setting
Date: Saturday 8 November
One of Yorkshire’s most beloved free fireworks displays takes place on the historic Stray – 200 acres of protected grassland in the heart of Harrogate. This traditional community event features family-friendly entertainment, food stalls, bars, and face painting throughout the evening, building up to a spectacular fireworks display.
The open space of the Stray means excellent viewing opportunities for thousands of visitors, while Harrogate’s elegant spa town setting provides plenty of options for food and drink before or after the display. The event has a warm, welcoming community feel that’s perfect for families.
Driving tip: Harrogate is easily accessible from the A1(M) via the A59, taking around 30 minutes from York or Leeds. Street parking is available around the Stray, but spaces fill up quickly. Arrive before 6pm to secure parking in nearby residential streets. The town centre has several multi-storey car parks within walking distance.
Brockham Bonfire, Surrey
Best for: One of Surrey’s largest displays with traditional torchlit procession
Date: Saturday 8 November
One of the largest bonfire celebrations in Surrey, Brockham’s annual event is a spectacular community tradition featuring a massive bonfire built on the village green and fireworks launched from the recreation ground. The evening begins with an atmospheric torchlit procession at 6.35pm, where the Guy – accompanied by burning torches and the Marching Sea Cadet Band – processes through the village before returning to light the bonfire at 7.45pm, followed by fireworks at 8.15pm.
This free event (donations welcomed) has been running for decades and offers an authentic Bonfire Night experience with food stalls, live music, and a traditional pig auction. The village’s picturesque setting between Dorking and Reigate, combined with the scale of the celebration, makes this one of the South East’s most impressive displays.
Driving tip: Brockham is located just south of the A25 between Dorking and Reigate. Parking costs £10 per car (cash recommended) in designated fields around the village – each car park is numbered and well signposted. The walk to Brockham Green takes around 20 minutes on unlit country roads, so bring a torch and suitable footwear as the ground can be muddy. Roads through the village close at 5.30pm, so arrive early.
Cockermouth Firework Display, Memorial Gardens, Cumbria
Best for: Traditional Lake District market town celebration
Date: Sunday 2 November
This free community event organised by Cockermouth Town Council takes place in the Memorial Gardens and features trade stands, food stalls, and a children’s fun fair alongside the fireworks display. The event runs from 5-7pm with fireworks at 6pm, making it ideal for families with younger children who want an earlier finish.
Cockermouth’s historic market town setting, famous as the birthplace of William Wordsworth, provides a picturesque backdrop. The compact town centre means you can easily explore before the event, with independent shops, cafes, and traditional Cumbrian pubs.
Driving tip: Cockermouth is accessed via the A66 from Penrith (around 30 minutes) or the A595 from the coast. The Memorial Gardens are in the town centre with several free car parks nearby including Main Street car park and Kirkgate car park. Arrive early as parking fills quickly for this popular event.
Barmoor Fireworks, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear
Best for: Family funfair and free entertainment in the North East
Date: Friday 7 November
Barmoor’s free fireworks event combines a traditional display with a funfair, food stalls, and drinks, creating a full evening’s entertainment without any ticket cost. This community event has grown in popularity over recent years and offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere for families and groups.
The event’s Friday night timing makes it perfect for kicking off a Bonfire Night weekend, and the variety of food and drink options means you can make a proper evening of it without breaking the bank.
Driving tip: Barmoor is located in Gateshead, easily accessible from the A1(M) and local routes. Follow local signage to the event. Parking is available at the venue, but arrive early as spaces are limited.
Elvington Scout Hut Bonfire, York, North Yorkshire
Best for: Traditional village bonfire with community spirit
Date: Friday 7 November
This charming village event near York offers free entry with a suggested donation. The Scout Hut provides a bar and BBQ serving refreshments and treats, with the bonfire lit at 6.30pm and fireworks at 7pm.
Elvington’s village setting offers a more intimate alternative to larger city displays, with the community spirit and traditional bonfire creating a memorable atmosphere. The earlier timings make it perfect for families before heading home at a reasonable hour.
Driving tip: Elvington is located about 6 miles southeast of York, easily accessible via the B1228. The village has limited parking, so car sharing is encouraged. Follow signs to the Scout Hut and arrive early to secure a space in the field car park. The event is within 20 minutes’ drive of York city centre.
General Free Display Driving Tips
Arrive early: Without advance tickets, these events work on a first-come basis. Arriving 60-90 minutes before the display ensures parking and a good viewing spot.
Check weather policies: Some coastal and open-air events may be postponed in poor weather. Check local event pages or social media on the day.
Bring cash: While entry is free, most events have food stalls, funfairs, and donation buckets. Many community events rely on these voluntary contributions to continue.
Plan your exit: Free events can attract large crowds. Consider staying 15-20 minutes after the display ends to avoid traffic congestion, or scope out exit routes when you arrive.
Pack for comfort: Bring folding chairs or blankets for sitting, plus extra layers. November evenings are cold, especially at coastal or open locations.
About Turo
Turo is the world’s largest car sharing marketplace, where you can book the perfect car for wherever you’re going from a vibrant community of trusted hosts across the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and France. Flying in from afar or looking for a car down the street, searching for a rugged truck or something smooth and swanky, you can skip the rental car counter and choose from an extraordinary, totally unique selection of nearby vehicles shared by local hosts. Entrepreneurs can take the wheel of their futures by becoming hosts and building car sharing businesses on Turo, leveraging our established platform to scale their businesses to meet their goals.
With an unwavering mission of putting the world’s 1.5 billion cars to better use, Turo unlocks the hidden value in idle and underutilised assets, empowering anyone to get in the driver’s seat. Find your drive® — Turo.
To learn more about Turo, please visit www.turo.com.
ENDS