Wildlife Friendly Bonfire Night at Brockholes (dog friendly)

Our no bang Bonfire Night events are designed to be gentle, wildlife-friendly, and family-focused. This year, we’ve listened to your requests and, for one night only, we’re trying something new…

For this evening’s event only, dogs will be welcome to join the celebrations at Brockholes.

We know many people don’t want to leave their four-legged friends at home and this relaxed, after-dark celebration is the perfect opportunity. We’ve worked with our reserve team to put strict rules in place so that wildlife remains protected:

- Dogs must be on-lead at all times
- Access is limited to the car park, the lit path, and the Visitor Village
- The wider reserve remains closed and peaceful for nature
- Staff, rangers, and volunteers will be on hand throughout
- Special “doggy doo” bins will be provided

Please note: this applies only to one of our Bonfire Night events (Wednesday 5th November). All other events at Brockholes remain dog-free.

By booking onto events like this and visiting our reserves and cafés, you’re helping to protect wildlife across our region. Every penny raised goes straight back into our work.

Why are we allowing Dogs at Brockholes for this event?

Brockholes has always been a dog-free nature reserve. Our mission is to protect wildlife and the presence of dogs, even the friendliest, well-behaved ones, can disturb the sensitive habitats we care for. Ground-nesting birds and deer are especially vulnerable to disturbance, which is why dogs are not permitted on site during our normal opening hours.

We know this can be disappointing for some visitors. We fully support responsible ownership and on-lead walking in the right environments – but at Brockholes, wildlife must always come first.

Why are dogs allowed for this event?

On this occasion we’re able to welcome dogs because the event takes place:

• In the evening – when the wider reserve is closed and wildlife is less active.
• In restricted areas only – dogs are permitted in the car park, along the lit path and within the Visitor Village where the event is held. All other areas of the reserve remain closed.
• Under full supervision – with staff, rangers, and volunteers on hand throughout.
• On-lead at all times – we operate a zero-tolerance approach to off-lead dogs.
• With extra facilities – including dedicated “doggy doo bins” to help keep the site clean.

Because the wider reserve is unlit at night and access is carefully managed, there is no safe way for people or dogs to wander into sensitive wildlife areas. This allows us to welcome dog owners to the event without compromising the protection of our nature reserve.

Our commitment

This event is a rare exception! Brockholes will continue to be a dog-free site during the day and in normal operation, ensuring wildlife has the peace and protection it needs to thrive.

What to Expect

Enjoy a variety of live indoor entertainment, including:

• Kids Magic Show
• Animal Balloon Making
• Punch and Judy Show
• Bonfire Lighting (7:00 PM)

Each child's entry ticket includes:

x3 games tickets - These tickets grant access to Hook-a-Duck (prize every time!), Coconut Shy, Darts, Nerf shooting range, and Tin Can Alley (one ticket per game)

Face Painting - cash in a games ticket

Live kids entertainment - Punch & Judy show, Animal Balloon Making & Kids Magic show

Bouncy Castle & Soft Play

UNLIMITED marshmallow roasting

Each adult's entry ticket includes:

Free Parking

UNLIMITED marshmallow roasting

Live kids entertainment - Punch and Judy show, Kids Magic show & Animal Balloon Making

Additional game tickets can be purchased for £3.50 each or 3 for £8

Our café will be open throughout the evening, offering a variety of hot and cold foods to suit all dietary preferences.

What Makes This Event Unique?

Our bonfire is thoughtfully constructed by our conservation team using eco-friendly materials sourced from on-site habitat management. While sensibly sized to protect wildlife, it will still offer the warmth and beauty of a traditional bonfire. Set on a strip of land extending into the lake, the bonfire will be visible from our floating village, creating a magical atmosphere. The fire will be responsibly lit after a thorough wildlife inspection, ensuring a safe and unique experience for all..

Important Event Details:

Bonfire Lighting: 7:00 PM

Parking: Free with ticket purchase

Children aged 2 and under enter free (please book a free ticket for them) this ticket covers entry & access to the bouncy castle & soft play

Children aged 3+ require a child’s entry ticket.

If you are bringing a pram, please let us know by selecting a free pram ticket on booking- pram spaces are limited!

Our café will serve a variety of bonfire-themed treats such as hot dogs, hog roast baps, turkey and stuffing rolls, and gluten-free, vegan, and halal options.

Why This Event is Special

This isn’t just any Bonfire Night. It’s an evening that puts wildlife and conservation first. Every element is designed with sustainability in mind. It’s also perfect for younger children and those with sensory sensitivities, offering a relaxing and fun-filled evening without loud noises.

Come along for a gentle, memorable Bonfire Night that celebrates nature and community. We can’t wait to welcome you and your family to our floating visitor village for a night under the stars at Brockholes!