Lewes Bonfire is back in full swing this Saturday.

But with rail strikes and road closures it is difficult to get to and Lewes District council has urged people not to travel to the festivity. 

Here's everything you need to know about the largest bonfire in the county. 

What is Lewes Bonfire?

Lewes Bonfire is a series of torch-lit processions through the narrow streets of the town.

There are six bonfire societies participating this year and around 3,000 people are expected to take part in the procession.

Members of the bonfire socieites parade with flaming crosses and effigies are burnt. 

Effigies of the pope and the devil have featured for centuries, but in recent years topical figures have been burnt. These include Piers Morgan and Angela Merkel, ex-chancellor of Germany.

When is Lewes Bonfire?

Lewes Bonfire takes place on November 5 every years, unless November 5 falls on a Sunday. In that case, it takes place on Saturday 4.

Processions start once it gets dark at around 5.00pm. Proceedings at bonfire sites usually begin at 9.45pm.

The bonfire soceities put on a fireworks display which ends at around 11.00pm. 

The Argus: Crowded streets at last year's eventCrowded streets at last year's event

How do I get there?

Authorities say Lewes Bonfire is strictly for residents and have urged those considering travelling to the event to stay closer to home. 

Roads into the town are closed from 4pm and no trains will call at Lewes after 3pm. 

Typically, visitors can travel to Falmer station as late as 6.40pm, but strike action this year means that will not be an option.

Trains will not resume to and from Lewes until the following morning.

Buses will be diverted away from the town in line with the road closures. 

Which roads are closed?

Lewes District Council has released a full list of roads which will be closed from 4pm.

  • A27 junction with A277 Brighton Road (Ashcombe Roundabout)
  • A275 Offham Road with B2116 Plumpton Road
  • C7 Kingston Road junction with C324 Wellgreen Lane 
  • A26 junction with A2029 Malling Street 
  • A26 Malling Hill Junction with Church Lane 

Parking restrictions will begin from 12pm. Roads will not reopen until 2am the following day, or when Sussex Police deem it is safe to do so. 

The interactive map below has more detail.

What will the weather be like?

At present, the Met Office forecasts that Saturday will be cloudy, with rain expected later in the day. 

Where can I get food and drink?

Some pubs will be serving food and drink during the evening. Vendors selling refreshments will be dotted around the town.

Pubs are always really busy, and according to Visit Lewes some will be open on a ticket only basis.

Where are the toilets?

Public toilets will be open behind the Premier Inn, in Market Lane and in the High Street near the Black Horse pub. 

Pubs which are open will have toilets available to customers.