Home » TRAVEL ALERT » Travel Alert for Lewes Bonfire Night 2025 in the UK: Road Closures, Rail Suspension, and Safety Concerns Make It a No-Go for Tourists Published on
November 1, 2025As Lewes prepares for its iconic Bonfire Night celebrations on 5 November 2025, authorities are issuing stark warnings for non-residents to avoid traveling to the town due to major travel disruptions and safety concerns. Rail suspensions, road closures, and overcrowding are expected to create significant challenges for both visitors and emergency services alike.Train Services Suspended: A No-Go Zone for Non-ResidentsIn a move to prevent overcrowding and ensure the safety of residents, all rail services to Lewes and surrounding areas will be suspended from 5:00 PM on 5 November until the start of service on 6 November. Key stations such as Lewes, Falmer, Cooksbridge, Glynde, and Southease will be inaccessible to travelers, making rail travel an unfeasible option for those planning to attend the event. (Source: East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service)Advertisement The last trains from London Victoria will depart at 3:24 PM and 3:54 PM, leaving limited options for those who have not yet reached the town. Travelers are being urged to seek alternatives and reconsider their plans for attending Lewes’ Bonfire Night celebrations.Road Closures and Parking Restrictions: Prepare for GridlockFrom 4:45 PM on 5 November, several key roads and junctions around Lewes will be closed to both vehicles and pedestrians, making it extremely difficult to access the town by car. Among the affected areas are:AdvertisementA27 junction with A277 (Brighton Road/Ashcombe Roundabout)A275 Offham Road junction with B2116 Plumpton RoadA26 Malling Street and Church Lane junctionsWith these closures in place, the local authorities advise visitors to avoid driving into Lewes and instead opt for smaller, local events or fireworks displays in nearby towns. Parking restrictions will begin at midday, and non-residents are advised to clear their vehicles from the area well before 4:00 PM to avoid being trapped.Safety Concerns: Emergency Access a Top PriorityLewes Bonfire Night is famous for its massive crowds, torch-lit processions, and spectacular fireworks, but this year, the event is raising significant safety concerns. With narrow streets and densely packed crowds, local authorities are worried that emergency vehicle access could be severely compromised, making it difficult to respond to any incidents quickly.Advertisement Overcrowding, combined with the risk of fireworks-related injuries, has led emergency services to take drastic measures to prevent further strain on public safety. The East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service has reiterated that these travel restrictions are essential to ensure a smoother and safer experience for everyone involved.Local Tourism Impact: A Quiet Bonfire Night for Visi …