Can’t visit a fireworks event? Then head to one of these viewpoints to watch displays across the city region
16:53, 03 Nov 2025
Head to a vantage point for incredible views of fireworks across Greater Manchester for Bonfire Night (Image: Manchester Evening News)
Every year fireworks light up the night sky for Bonfire Night, injecting some brightness into the long, dark evenings. Following on from Halloween and the clocks moving back, November 5 marks the start of the festive season for many.
The annual celebration marks the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605 when Guy Fawkes attempted to blow up the House of Parliament in London. For generations the evening has celebrated with bonfires and firework displays.
As Bonfire Night falls on a Wednesday this year, there are celebrations being held not just mid-week but over the following weekend too.
Although once again the big displays across Manchester, such as Heaton Park and Platt Fields, will not be going ahead this year, local councils have announced various displays across Greater Manchester, along with a number of private events being held as well.
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If you’re not able to attend an event near you, one option is to head to a vantage point and watch the fireworks light up the skies above Greater Manchester. Read on for some of the best vantage points across the region.
This year Bonfire Night falls on a Wednesday (Image: Manchester Evening News)
Hartshead Pike, Tameside
If you’re after stunning views across the city region, Hartshead Pike in Tameside is the place to go. The hill offers the perfect vantage point, and is topped by a Grade II-listed tower which was originally built in the 18th century as a warning beacon for local garrisons. It can get busy so get there early for a good spot.
The Roebuck Inn, Oldham
The Roebuck Inn in Strinesdale is a pub that’s known for its incredible views across Saddleworth and Greater Manchester. So why not combine a cosy pub meal with watching fireworks? It has an excellent selection of food options on the menu and there’s even a roaring fire adding to the atmosphere.
Salford Quays, Salford
Although not an obvious choice, Salford Quay actually has great views looking towards the city’s skyline thanks to how relatively flat it is. There’s also lots of restaurants and bars you can head into in nearby Media City to make a night of it.
20 Stories, Spinningfields
A great option if you’d rather get dressed up for Bonfire Night and sip on a cocktail, than stand wrapped up in a puffer coat with mud on your shoes.
This bar has an extensive open-air terrace with panoramic views across the city and further afield, providing the perfect spot to watch firework displays from. Despite the name hinting otherwise, the bar is actually higher Cloud 23.
Werneth Low, Tameside
The view from Werneth Low (Image: Vincent Cole – Manchester Evening News)
One of the most popular viewpoints in Greater Manchester, Werneth Low is located on the border of Stockport and Tameside. On a clear night you’ll be able to see across the city and even as far as Liverpool. Round off your night with a visit to the Hare & Hounds Inn where you can tuck into tasty pub food.
Peel Tower Holcombe Hill, Bury
Another brilliant location for views across Manchester’s city skyline, as well as across Bury and Ramsbottom, Holcombe Hill is an excellent vantage point. The tower itself opened in 1852 and stands at 128ft tall. Parking is available at Lumb Carr Road Car Park (BL8 4NN).
Tandle Hill, Oldham
A firm favourite for its amazing views, Tandle Hill is a great lookout point to see Manchester, Oldham and Rochdale, making it a great spot to watch the fireworks from. During the day it’s an excellent spot for a walk, too.
Cloud 23, Manchester City Centre
Another spot for those who prefer a glamorous Bonfire Night, Cloud 23 is Manchester’s original sky bar. Located on the 23rd floor of the Manchester Deansgate Hotel by IHG, it has breath-taking views of the city at night.
Rivington Pike Tower and Belmont Road, Bolton
This location is rather isolated and needs to be accessed on food so best suited for earlier in the day when you may spot a display at dusk, but Rivington Pike certainly has some incredible views.
There’s parking available at Lower House Car Park (BL6 7SD) and from there it’s around a half hour walk.Another spot nearby where you can park up and see the fireworks is Wilderswood Car Park on the corner of George’s Lane and Old Rake. It is very small so be warned it can get busy.
Greenbooth Reservoir, Rochdale
Tucked among the hills above Rochdale, Greenbooth Reservoir offers breathtaking views of the city. A popular spot during the day, it’s an excellent view point at night to watch fireworks from. You can park at Greenbooth Reservoir Car Park on Forsyth Lane (OL12 7TL) where you can look out across Greater Manchester.
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