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Hastings Bonfire
Hastings
Hastings Borough Bonfire Society's free torchlit procession, with bonfire societies, drummers and dance bands parading from the seafront at White Rock through the town centre and Old Town, followed by a bonfire, a secret effigy and a big fireworks display on the beach in front of Pelham Place. It is held on a Saturday evening in autumn; the 2026 procession was on Saturday 17 October, and the 2027 date is due to be announced soon.
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Where to stay
- Hastings Old TownGuest houses and small hotels on the procession route
- Hastings town centre & seafrontHotels near the station and White Rock
- St Leonards-on-SeaSeafront hotels about 10 minutes away
- Bexhill-on-SeaQuieter seaside town about 15 minutes away
- RyePretty historic town about 25 minutes away
Getting there
- Hastings station is a short walk from the seafront where the procession forms up
- Road closures start at 5.30pm and usually end around 10.30 to 11pm
- Parking is limited, car parks fill quickly and Pelham Place car park is closed; coach parking is on Falaise Road
- Buses and trains get very crowded, so check for train disruption before you travel
Travel details can change, especially on event days — check with the venue or operator before you travel.
Questions people ask
Where is the best place to stay near Hastings Bonfire?
Hastings Old Town: Guest houses and small hotels on the procession route. Hastings town centre & seafront: Hotels near the station and White Rock. St Leonards-on-Sea: Seafront hotels about 10 minutes away. Bexhill-on-Sea: Quieter seaside town about 15 minutes away. Rye: Pretty historic town about 25 minutes away.
How do I get to Hastings Bonfire?
Hastings station is a short walk from the seafront where the procession forms up. Road closures start at 5.30pm and usually end around 10.30 to 11pm. Parking is limited, car parks fill quickly and Pelham Place car park is closed; coach parking is on Falaise Road. Buses and trains get very crowded, so check for train disruption before you travel.
Any tips for visiting Hastings Bonfire?
The event is free with no tickets, but it is crowded and very loud, so ear defenders are a good idea. Wear old, non-flammable clothes and sensible shoes, keep well back from the torches, and leave pets and your own fireworks at home.
Which airport is closest to Hastings Bonfire?
The nearest airport on this site is Gatwick Airport, about 39 miles away in a straight line. See hotels near the airport.