How To Host A Countryside Bonfire To Remember

The nights are growing longer, the trees are ablaze with golden, orange and red hues, and bonfire night is just around the corner. Many of us will be planning to mark the traditional British holiday with a night filled with festivities, food, family, and friends. But before you reach for that toffee apple, here are a few tips from Humes Outfitters on how to host a memorable bonfire gathering, countryside-style.

Keep the flames in check

There’s nothing better than cosying up around a campfire, but it’s imperative to remember your fire safety if you are planning to light one. Here are some of the London Fire Brigade’s top tips for keeping the fun safe on bonfire night:

Only use private land: If you’re planning on having your bonfire anywhere other than on your own property, you must obtain permission from the landowner. Generally, you can’t have a bonfire on public land — i.e., no public parks.

Keep a safe distance: Ensure the bonfire is far from any overhanging trees, structures like sheds or fences, and any flammable materials.

Burn responsibly: Burning the wrong materials poses a risk to your health and the environment. You should only burn dry, untreated wood and organic garden waste — definitely no household waste!

Check weather conditions: Look at the forecast beforehand and never light a bonfire when it’s windy. You’ll want to choose a night when it’s not raining, too, as this won’t be very conducive to your bonfire!

Have a water source nearby: Keep a hose or buckets of water on hand for quick extinguishing if needed.

Ignite with caution: Never use gasoline or other flammable liquids to start the fire.

Monitor the fire: Always have at least one adult supervising the bonfire, and don’t leave it unattended

Extinguish before you go: Ensure the fire is fully burnt out before leaving. If you do have to leave the fire, damp it down with some water to make sure there are no lingering embers.

Follow firework etiquette

If you're planning to have your own fireworks display at your bonfire, you must first ensure you’re following safety procedures. There are usually restrictions on when and where you can let off fireworks, so check local laws before you go rocketing off.

Be considerate of any nearby houses, as well as pets and wild animals who may not appreciate the noisy display. The good news is a range of low-noise fireworks are available for purchase, so it’s worth looking into those if noise is a concern.

For detailed information, read the London Fire Brigade’s guide to firework and sparkler safety.

Festive food

When it comes to a bonfire party, comfort food is the name of the game. Traditional fare includes jacket potatoes, pulled pork, chilli, toffee apples, apple cider, hot chocolate, and, of course, plenty of marshmallows for toasting. Make sure there’s enough to go around, alongside plates, knives, forks and serviettes for all your guests. A hipflask is always handy for adding a warming nip of whisky to the hot chocolates for the grown-ups, too!

Choose reusable

Single-use plastic utensils aren’t great for the environment. Wherever possible, opt for sustainable, reusable and cups, plates and cutlery sets for your bonfire feast instead. They’re eco-friendly, easily transportable and can be washed and reused again and again.

Leave no trace

Whether you’ll be celebrating in your back garden or further afield, it goes without saying you should always leave an outdoor area in the same state you found it in. Be sure to gather up any rubbish as you leave, and don’t forget to dispose of the leftover wood ash in your household garden waste bin, compost bin or local recycling centre. Always allow the ash to cool before putting it in a bin.

Before lighting your fire, check the area for any wildlife that could be sheltering (a log pile can look like a cosy place to hibernate for a hedgehog in autumn)! It’s a good idea to light the bonfire from one side first, giving any critters hiding inside the chance to scurry off.

If you aren’t already, get acquainted with the Countryside Code which tells you everything you need to know about how best to respect our beautiful countryside and the wildlife it’s home to.

Wrap up warm

Although you’ll be huddled around the fire, the chilly autumn weather will cool things down significantly when you step away, so layering up is the key to staying warm as you while away the dark hours.

A pair of high-quality, waterproof country boots are a must-have for keeping feet warm, dry and protected, with a Chelsea boot or knee-high style making for a stylish alternative to wellies. Look for a sole with good grip to prevent slips and splashes in even the muddiest of gardens.

Lastly, always pack a good wind and waterproof jacket to prevent getting caught out by that temperamental British weather!

"Bonfire night is one of our favourite times of the year, and to really enjoy it, you'll want to dress the part! If you choose the right fabrics and layer up, it is possible to keep warm while still looking stylish. Start with a solid base — thermal Jodhpur jeans are a great pick — and then throw on an insulated fleece gilet to keep your core warm without feeling bulky.

"Wool and other natural fibres are better at keeping you warm than synthetics, plus there's nothing more stylish than a classic cable or Fair Isle knit! Merino and cashmere blends are solid options for lightweight breathability and temperature control — great for layering. And don’t forget the essentials: thick wool socks, gloves, and a cosy hat to keep your extremities warm.

"As we step into bonfire season, we hope your celebrations are filled with warmth, joy, and unforgettable moments. Here's to a magical celebration under starlit skies!”