Bonfire + Beamish
In truly spectacular fashion, Beamish Hall held their yearly display to celebrate Guy Fawkes night by illuminating the skies of the valley with a magnificent fireworks display.
I visited the “Guy Fawkes Extravaganza” on Monday 4th November 2019. Despite the wet and windy conditions, folks flocked outdoors in their masses, huddled under canvas hoods and family sized umbrellas. Delightfully, the Hall had opened up its doors to the general public too, so while the heavens opened periodically, the enticing warmth of the grand halls, open fires and packed bars ensured even the hardiest of festival goers could take cover. The contrast of muddy boots and crazed winter layers against the polished marble and oak was breathtakingly wonderful – an opportunity to feel fully relaxed in cosy yet utterly glamourous surroundings.
The night took a whole new dimension from any other local bonfire display I’ve ever attended with the inclusion of street dancers, fire poi dancers, interactive performers, a great selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, an array of delicious street food, child-friendly fairground rides and of course, the firework finale.
Though the display was shorter than I expected (and more truthfully, than I wanted), it left me feeling star struck and dazzled. In truth, I would love to see the tremendous display once again but accompanied by a crescendo of classical music; although Reel 2 Real’s classic ‘I like to move it’ was a true feast for the ears in the early 90’s, it wasn’t quite the backdrop for such a sensational display.
Highlights – Greek Street Food mouth-watering warm halloumi salad box and chicken and halloumi gyros
Wish List – A fully stocked churros van - no dessert for us before the fireworks started as the vendor completely ran out of churros to sell and was turning customers away
https://www.beamish-hall.co.uk
Beamish Hall Hotel, Beamish, Stanley, County Durham, DH9 0YB
