Heathfield Bonfire Night Returns with Flaming Spectacle and Community Spirit
7th October
Heathfield Bonfire Night Returns with Flaming Spectacle and Community Spirit
The streets of Heathfield are set to glow once again on Saturday 11 October, as the Heathfield & District Bonfire Society leads its much-loved torchlit procession through the town. Expect flames, drums, colour, and the unmistakable smell of bonfire night — all in honour of tradition, remembrance, and community pride.
A night steeped in history
The bonfire commemorates the failure of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot, while also paying tribute to those who have lost their lives in conflicts and acts of terrorism. Closer to home, it remembers the Heathfield Martyrs — Margery Morris and her son James, from Cade Street, who were executed in Lewes in 1557 for their faith.
What to expect
More than 25 visiting bonfire societies will join Heathfield’s own members — instantly recognisable in their green, white, and black “Smugglers” jumpers and striking “Day of the Dead” costumes — for a spectacular parade through the town. The torchlit procession will be followed by a fireworks display and the dramatic burning of this year’s tableau, handled by a professional pyrotechnic team.
The event has become a highlight of the autumn calendar and the culmination of a packed year for the Society, whose members also supported VE and VJ Day commemorations, Heathfield Show, Le Marché, Horam Fun Day, and other local events.
Where to watch and how to join in
To keep everyone safe, several roads will be closed between 6:30 pm and 10 pm:
High Street, Station Road, Mutton Hall Hill, Sheepsetting Lane, Wealdview Road, Mill Road, and Mill Close. All roads are due to reopen by 10 pm.
Full details are available on the Society’s website: www.heathfieldbonfiresociety.co.uk.
At the heart of the festivities, visitors can find refreshments at the Martyrs Bar behind Pennells Carpets, offering Harvey’s Best, local cider from Bignose Beardy, and soft drinks. For the first time, The Gun Taproom will be pouring from its Airstream bar at the firesite on Sheepsetting Lane.
Wristbands and entry details
Access to the firesite for the bonfire and fireworks is by wristband only.
Advance wristbands cost £4 each (under-5s go free) and are available from:
- Mermaid Lounge, Horam
- Poppyseed Bakery (Albion House), Cross-in-Hand
- Farrago, Heathfield
- Heathfield & Waldron Parish Council offices
- Outside Trading 4 U, High Street, 9 am–1 pm on the day
Any remaining wristbands will be on sale at the Martyrs Bar from 5:30 pm on the night at £5 each.
The Procession starts at 7.15 and the fireworks commence at 9pm. Get there early to enjoy refreshments from local eateries and pop up bars.
Supporting local causes
This year’s event will raise funds for Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice, which supports children and young people with life-limiting conditions, alongside other local charities and community groups.
Stay informed
A free printed programme has been delivered to more than 3,000 Heathfield homes and can also be viewed online at tinyurl.com/2n9fk4dy or via the QR code provided by the Society.
A celebration of togetherness
Heathfield’s Bonfire Night is more than fireworks — it’s a living tradition, kept alive by volunteers who give their time, energy, and spirit to bring the community together. On 11 October, as the torches are lit and the drums begin to roll, Heathfield will once again burn bright.
