Lewes Bonfire NightTorches, processions and the town’s unmistakable atmosphere.

We Wunt Be DruvLewes tradition, firelight and society banners.

War MemorialThe Fifth of November at the heart of Lewes.

FireworksBonfire night colour above the town.

Torches and firesitesPlan carefully and check official travel and safety updates.

Lewes traditions

Lewes Bonfire

Name: Lewes Bonfire Night
Location: Lewes

Explore Lewes Bonfire societies, their approximate areas and short histories. This page is a local guide, not an official event notice: always check official travel, road closure and safety updates before visiting.

Societies

Bonfire society map

Tap a society below to focus the map. Markers are approximate bases/areas rather than official route points.

Cliffe Bonfire Society

Founded in 1853, associated with Cliffe and Lansdown. Known for black-and-white smugglers and strong Cliffe traditions.

Commercial Square Bonfire Society

Founded in 1855, historically centred on Commercial Square and St John sub Castro with gold-and-black colours.

Lewes Borough Bonfire Society

Dating from 1853, representing the western side of Lewes and St Anne’s, with blue-and-white colours.

Southover Bonfire Society

Represents Southover and the Priory area. It has historic roots and was reformed in 2005.

South Street Bonfire Society

Formed in 1913 and associated with South Street and the Railway Land area.

Waterloo Bonfire Society

Reformed in 1954 and associated with the Market Street / central Lewes area.

Nevill Juvenile Bonfire Society

Founded in 1967 to represent the Nevill Estate, with separate celebrations before the main Fifth.

Safety note: Lewes Bonfire is very busy. Always check official travel, road closure and safety information before visiting.