Short answer: Plymouth Hoe is the obvious place — a great open lawn above the Sound with water in front of it and room for a crowd. The Barbican and Royal William Yard are both close by and both open.
A great open lawn high above Plymouth Sound, with Smeaton's Tower on it and water stretching out in front. It is free, it is open, there is room for a lot of people, and the Sound reflects anything launched over it.
On a clear night you can see a long way down the coast from up there.
Plymouth Fireworks on the Hoe — Thursday 5 November. Plymouth is one of the few places in Devon with a free, central display on Bonfire Night itself, and the Hoe gives everyone a sightline without anybody having to pay for a good spot.
Dates and times come from the organisers' own listings and the regional what's-on pages, checked in late October. Small displays are run by volunteers and can move or sell out, so confirm with the organiser before you travel — particularly for anything ticketed.
Going further afield, or the local one does not suit? Every confirmed firework display in Devon is on one page here, listed by date.
Plymouth is the largest place in this guide and nothing closes for winter. Royal William Yard is full of restaurants and bars in thick granite buildings, which is exactly what you want in November.
The Box is free — the city museum and gallery, with a mammoth and a 4D history film. The National Marine Aquarium on Sutton Harbour gives free re-entry for a year on your ticket, and is closed Wednesdays.
Devil's Point and Saltram on the edge of the city are the two good dog walks here. But see the guide to Bonfire Night with a nervous dog before bringing one anywhere near a display.
See the full Plymouth guide, filtered by who's with you.
Plan your day near Plymouth →