The nights are drawing in, the air smells faintly of smoke, and the promise of fireworks and sparklers hangs in the air... it must be nearly Bonfire Night!
Every 5th of November, we Brits gather around roaring bonfires to “remember, remember” - but how did this all start?
Bonfire Night historically marks the failure of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, when Guy Fawkes and his fellow conspirators tried (and failed) to blow up King James I and the Houses of Parliament.
When the plot was foiled, people all across London lit bonfires - a tradition that quickly spread around the country for decades to come.
Over four centuries later, we’re still lighting those fires, but now it’s less about politics and more about community, food, fireworks, and that perfect crackle of warmth on a cold November night!!
Here in Devon, things get a little more dramatic. In Ottery St Mary, our sister company’s hometown, Bonfire Night isn’t just about fireworks... it’s about flaming barrels!
Every year, brave (or slightly bonkers) locals carry burning tar barrels through the narrow streets - and they're officially the only town in the UK to do so!
According to their official website, "The exact origins are unknown but [the tradition] probably started after the gunpowder plot of 1605. Various alternative reasons suggested for burning barrels have included fumigation of cottages and as a warning of the approach of the Spanish armada."
The crowd cheers, the flames roar, and the smell of smoke and excitement fills the air. It’s chaos, it’s legendary, and it’s a night best spent with something warm (and gluten free) in hand...
Whether you’re wrapped up by the bonfire or watching the fireworks from your garden, nothing beats a pasty or roll to keep your hands (and belly) warm.
Here are our top picks for Bonfire Night comfort:
It’s Christmas, but in November! Packed with juicy turkey, smoky ham, and a zing of cranberry, this pasty tastes like a festive roast - no cutlery required.
Perfect for anyone who wants to feel mildly smug while everyone else eats soggy chips!!
Big flavour, big warmth. The smoky chorizo gives it a kick that pairs perfectly with the chilly night air.
Ideal for spice lovers who want to stay toasty inside and out.
Our award-winning legend. Tender chunks of beef, perfectly seasoned veg, and rich gravy wrapped in golden gluten free pastry.
If you want a real-deal, proper-pasty experience by the fire - this is the one.
Who needs fireworks when your pasty’s got this much spice? A comforting curry in pastry form!
This one’s a crowd-pleaser for vegans and anyone who loves bold flavour.
Two’s better than one - our twin pack of gluten free rolls is perfect for sharing (or not)!
Sweet butternut squash, earthy spinach, and flaky pastry make them the ultimate Bonfire snack for veggie pals.
The classics never miss. Crispy, meaty, and just the right size to munch while watching fireworks!
Gluten free, gorgeously golden, and guaranteed to please even the fussiest eaters.
So whether you’re braving the barrels in Ottery, lighting sparklers in your garden, or staying cosy inside with the fireworks on TV... this Bonfire Night, celebrate with a handwarmer that actually tastes as good as it looks.
Because nothing says “Remember, remember” quite like a gluten free pasty!!
