Guy Fawkes Night, or Bonfire Night, is a much-loved family tradition which is celebrated with great fervour right across the greater part of the United Kingdom. In the nation’s capital, London, and other locations stretching the length and breadth of the country, it’s a time when families and friends don their scarves, woollen hats, and warm winter jackets to witness the skies explode in a riot of colour over the great British landscape.
This year, unfortunately, the Coronavirus pandemic has ensured that almost all of the traditional Bonfire Night celebrations have had to be cancelled. Events which have long been tradition have had to be cancelled or put on hold in anticipation of better times. But, don’t worry, all is not lost. Here at Eddy Travels we’ve compiled a list of 7 of the best UK destinations where you can still feel the presence of Guy Fawkes and the infamous Gunpowder Plot. And even if you cannot travel these days due to the imposed government restrictions, you can still find some inspiration for your future travel plans.
What was the gunpowder plot?
On November 5th, 1605, a group of Catholic conspirators set in motion a plan to blow up the British Parliament and murder the then King, James I - a plot that ultimately failed.
There were many conspirators involved in this failed attempt on the life of the King, but it was one Guy Fawkes, who was discovered in the cellars beneath the House of Lords with 36 barrels of gunpowder ensuring that his name is forever linked to this festive night.
7 top UK tourism sites with links to Guy Fawkes - perfect for all the family.
1. The Tower of London
The famous, or infamous Tower of London houses the dungeons where those behind the failed Gunpowder Plot were held after the conspiracy’s discovery. This 1,000-year-old London landmark is also famed as the home of the Crown Jewels, the Bloody Tower - one of 21 towers which make up the whole complex - the Medieval Palace, numerous displays of armour and weaponry, Beefeaters, and the world-famous tower ravens.
At present, some areas of the Tower of London may be restricted to visitors or limited in their capabilities to process visitors - be sure to check well in advance of your intended visit.
Tickets for the Tower of London start at 25.00 GBP when purchased online in advance.
2. Parliament Hill, London
Long etched in folklore, it is said that Parliament Hill was the site chosen by the Gunpowder Plot conspirators where they would watch Parliament burn in the distance. However, like many myths which have gone unfiltered through the years, Parliament Hill derived its name from the fact that the site was defended by soldiers who had sworn allegiance to the English Parliament.
Despite this, the hill on London’s northern side is still one of the best vantage points in the city offering incredible panoramic views of the entire metropolis. Plus, if there happen to be any fireworks on display, this might just be the best place in London to bring the family.
3. The Houses of Parliament, London
Although tours within the Houses of Parliament have been suspended for the moment, these majestic buildings will be forever regarded as one of the most important architectural icons of the city of London. Thankfully, the plot to destroy these historic buildings by Guy Fawkes and his co-conspirators failed. The intended targets remain for you and your family to enjoy on a leisurely city walking tour.
The impressive architectural value of the Houses of Parliament is an unmissable London Instagram location and a must-go spot for every visitor to the capital.
You can get more information regarding opening hours etc. here.
4. Alnwick Castle, Northumberland
Although the link to Guy Fawkes is tentative, Northumberland's Alnwick Castle is well worthy of a visit for all the family. With majestic towers and turrets resembling Harry Potter’s beloved Hogwarts, the castle stands like a scene from a fairytale on the surrounding landscape.
The castle’s link to the Gunpowder Plot was due to the fact that the 9th Earl of Alnwick, Henry Percy had a cousin by the name of Thomas Percy. Thomas Percy was one of the co-conspirators of the Gunpowder Plot. After his death, his cousin was put on trial in his place and ended up serving 15 years in the Tower of London - where it is said that he was kept in a vastly different style than that of the Tower’s other residents.
For further information, check here.
5. The Guy Fawkes Inn, North Yorkshire
The picturesque city of York lays a strong claim to being the birthplace of Guy Fawkes, the figurehead behind the failed 1605 Gunpowder Plot. It’s said that Fawkes was born here in 1570 and was christened in the church across the street from the Guy Fawkes Inn. What was once the alleged cottage home of Fawkes and his family is now the site of a quaint traditional pub which also provides accommodation and bears its association with the infamous conspirator with great pride.
You can find more information on the inn and visiting the city of York, here.
6. Warwick Castle, Warwickshire
After their failed Gunpowder Plot the main plotters of the conspiracy escaped and made their way to Warwickshire where they attacked Warwick Castle in the hopes of stealing weapons, supplies, and horses to escape the king’s forces who were hard in pursuit.
Located in a medium alert area Warwick Castle is the perfect family trip location which operates with safety fully in mind. The Castle and surrounding grounds remain open to the public but check out their website to find out precisely what precautions you should take to enjoy a safe and fun visit to this amazing historic site.
If you decide to travel during Guy Fawkes Night, another way of ensuring your safety is by using Eddy Travels AI travel assistant to search for hotels with disinfected rooms. This is sure to give you peace of mind, and a good night’s sleep.
7. Coughton Castle, Warwickshire
Coughton Court shares an important connection with the Gunpowder Plot, and Guy Fawkes, due to its long historical papist associations. It was here that the plot’s conspirators stored arms, horses, ammunition, and supplies which they knew they would need after the destruction of the Parliament buildings and the death of the King. As we now know, things didn’t go exactly as planned.
The building contains a substantial collection of painting dating from the 16th to the 19th centuries, 17th-century tapestries, a small exhibition of the Throckmorton - the Court’s owners - family documents and private correspondence, along with a selection of medieval manuscripts and the rarity of a 17th-century travelling library. It’s worth noting that Coughton Court, and the adjoining gardens, only open from Thursday to Monday, so it’s worth booking in advance. You can find more details, including health and safety details here.
Stay safe during Covid-19
The present situation regarding the spread of Covid-19 is a very serious matter and should be treated accordingly. However, when you can travel, try to ensure the following:
Check the alert level in the area you intend to visit
Wear protective masks indoors and in the proximity of others
Keep a sensible physical distance with others
Wash and sanitise your hands regularly
Check the local guidelines
Register in advance to avoid disappointment
Be sure to register your details if necessary on arrival
Check public transport details as many schedules and timetables have changed
Try to avoid confined spaces
Just because we can’t travel any great distances right now, there’s still an awful lot to explore right on our doorsteps.
One sure way of finding exactly the right hotel for you and your family is by using the Eddy Travels AI travel assistant. Base your search on dates, locations, disinfected hotels, the number of guests, or any other criteria you can think of - Eddy Travels will find what you’re looking for instantly. Try it today!