Lewes Bonfire Night 2026: Police warning, road closures and trains

Sussex Police urge people to avoid Lewes Bonfire Night today, 5 November. Find out about road closures, train restrictions and safety warnings.

Sussex Police are urging people not to travel to Lewes for Bonfire Night today (Thursday 5 November), as major road closures, parking restrictions and changes to train services come into force.

Thousands of people are expected to descend on the East Sussex town for its famous annual celebrations, but police, emergency services and local authorities have issued a clear warning about the dangers of overcrowding.

Authorities say the narrow streets of Lewes present significant safety challenges, with dozens of injuries reported during previous celebrations, including incidents involving fireworks and people attending the processions.

A substantial police presence will be in place throughout the evening, with officers working alongside event organisers and stewards to keep people safe.

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Train restrictions

Rail passengers are being warned that trains will not stop at Lewes, Falmer, Cooksbridge, Glynde or Southease from 5pm today until services resume on Friday morning.

Commuters travelling from London Victoria are also being advised that the last trains serving the affected stations will depart at 3.24pm and 3.54pm.

The restrictions have been introduced to discourage additional visitors from travelling to the celebrations and reduce the risk of overcrowding.

Road closures

Major roads into Lewes will close from 4.45pm today, with residents advised to return their vehicles home before 4pm.

The closures affect:

• A27 at the A277 Brighton Road junction, Ashcombe Roundabout

• A275 Offham Road at the B2116 Plumpton Road junction

• C7 Kingston Road at the C324 Wellgreen Lane junction

• A26 at the A2029 Malling Street junction

• A26 Church Lane at Mayhew Way

• The Drove, from Hamsey Lane to the A275

Parking restrictions begin from midday, with motorists and cyclists being reminded that road closures will be legally enforced.

Visitors are being strongly advised not to drive into Lewes.

Police warn of overcrowding and fireworks dangers

Chief Superintendent Graham Barnett, from Sussex Police, said officers would be working closely with organisers and other agencies to ensure the celebrations pass safely.

He said: “Officers will be on patrol and any criminality and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated. Enforcement action will be taken against anyone who puts others at risk or ignores event restrictions, including those bringing their own fireworks.”

Police are urging anyone who notices suspicious behaviour to report it to a steward or an officer, or call 999 in an emergency.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is also encouraging people to attend organised fireworks displays closer to home rather than travelling to Lewes.

Group Manager Paul Coppard said: “We ask people to support their local organised fireworks events instead of travelling to Lewes on the 5th November.”

Emergency services have also warned that the large crowds, narrow streets, noise and smoke make the celebrations unsuitable for young children and dogs.

Residents and commuters are being advised to plan journeys carefully, follow official diversions and allow extra time for travel.

Further information about road closures and parking restrictions is available on the Lewes District Council website.

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