Battle Bonfire

There's something about Battle Bonfire, the age of the town, the buildings, the history all around, its one of my favourite processions.

There has been a bonfire on the abbey green since 1646 and it feels great to be a part of a tradition that has been going for so long!

Bonfire on the Abbey Green

We arrived in Battle plenty early enough to have time to visit a local cafe.  Little Owl charmed everyone as usual!

I tried to take some pictures of the procession, but you see, my little camera struggles to take pictures of flickering lights in the darkness at the best of times.  During the procession, I'm not actually able to stop walking for fear of someone with a flaming torch walking into me and Little Owl, so sorry for the poor quality, but hopefully they give you some idea of the procession and fireworks that followed.

Hastings Bonfire Society

The Abbey Green

Robertsbridge Bonfire Society

Battle Bonfire has always drawn large crowds, due partly to its timing of being the nearest Saturday to 5th November.  Whilst there has always been a bonfire outside the Abbey, the popularity of Battle Bonfire has meant over the years it has tried various locations for its main bonfire and fireworks.  However, last year it returned to the Abbey Green.  There is something special about that.

The effigy

Fire

Fireworks

Well done to Battel Bonfire Boyes - another great event!

If after reading my bonfire posts, you are wondering what all the fuss over Bonfire is, have a read of this article from the Independent on Sunday.  It's a wonderfully written article which captures the spirit of Bonfire without actually visiting one beautifully.