Long and dark late autumn evenings are here, and while it can all feel a bit gloomy, there is one thing which helps to chase the shadows away: Bonfire Night. Watching spectacular fireworks displays is a ritual which signals the start of winter for many.
There’s nothing like wrapping up warm and immersing yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of Bonfire Night. It’s magical watching the night sky being lit up by pyrotechnics, while sparkles provide mesmerising fun on a smaller scale.
This year Manchester City Council has once again cancelled its public Bonfire Night events, which includes the huge display at Heaton Park. Bosses have blamed ‘rising costs’ and ‘pressure on budgets’ for the decision.
READ MORE: Greater Manchester Bonfire Night 2023 firework displays and events
However, there are still plenty of firework displays and bonfires happening across Greater Manchester on November 5 and the weekend leading up to the event. Many will choose to set off their own fireworks at home, too, so the night sky is set to be lit up across the city region.
If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of some of the many pyrotechnic displays happening then a high-up viewpoint is the place to go. You’ll be able to see all the fireworks lighting up the night sky above Greater Manchester, as well as incredible views of the city lit up at night.
Hartshead Pike, Tameside
Head to the top of Hartshead Pike and you’ll be able to see for miles, with views across Ashton-under-Lyne, Mossley, Saddleworth and Oldham. The name refers to both the Grade II listed tower and the hill it sits atop.
Peel Tower and Holcombe Hill, Bury
You can see right across the Manchester skyline from Holcombe Hill, as well as Bury and Ramsbottom, so you’ll be able to see fireworks from all around. Peel Tower stands at the top of the hill, opened in 1852 it stands at 128ft tall.
Werneth Low, Tameside
It’s one of the most popular hilltop locations in Greater Manchester and with good reason. Located on the borders of Stockport and Tameside, the views from the summit are incredible and you can even see as far as Jodrell Bank in Cheshire.
Cloud 23, city centre
For a completely different experience to a rural location, Cloud 23 offers a touch of glamour. Located on the 23rd floor of the Hilton Hotel on Deansgate, it has breath-taking views of the city - plus you can watch the displays while sipping on a cocktail.
Salford Quays, Salford
It's not the most well-known of viewpoints, but Salford Quays actually offers incredible views looking out towards the city's skyline. Plus there's plenty of bars and restaurants in nearby Media City to nip into when the weather gets chilly.
20 Stories, city centre
Offering incredible urban views, 20 Stories is a great alternative to Cloud 23, and in fact it’s actually higher than the Hilton’s bar. It also has an open-air terrace so you can enjoy the feeling of being outside on Bonfire Night with all the comfort of a slick bar.
