Remember, Remember – Guy Fawkes and Yorkshire’s Bonfire Night Connection

Guy Fawkes, York and the Bonfire Night story that began in Yorkshire.

Every November 5th, fireworks light up the sky across Britain as we gather for Bonfire Night - a celebration with its roots right here in Yorkshire.

Guy Fawkes, the man at the heart of this historic event, was born in the city of York in 1570 and baptised at St Michael le Belfrey Church beside York Minster. The legend of his birthplace is said to be the current location of the Guy Fawkes Inn on High Petergate, in the shadow of the great Minster, although historical evidence suggests he was probably born in a house on nearby Stonegate. Born into a Protestant family but later converting to Catholicism, Fawkes’ beliefs shaped the events that would make him one of history’s most talked-about Yorkshiremen.   At the time, England was a Protestant country, and Catholics faced harsh restrictions under King James I’s rule. Fawkes and a small group of conspirators hoped to overthrow the government and restore a Catholic monarch to the throne - a decision that would seal his place in history.

Centuries later, the story of the Gunpowder Plot remains one of the most famous in British history. Fawkes and his fellow conspirators planned to blow up the Houses of Parliament in 1605, but the plot was foiled in the early hours of November 5th when he was discovered guarding barrels of gunpowder beneath the building.

Today, Bonfire Night is a time to remember history, enjoy the warmth of a crackling fire, and wrap up against the autumn chill. Here in Yorkshire, where the story began, we like to think of it as a celebration of local heritage as much as national history.

As a Yorkshire brand based not far from Guy Fawkes’ birthplace, RUFFNEK® couldn’t resist having our own Guy Fawkes snood - a fun nod to our region’s past and the perfect way to stay cosy on a crisp November evening. Whether you’re heading to a firework display, walking the dog, or simply enjoying the seasonal glow, it’s a little piece of Yorkshire history you can wear with pride.

Think of our four-legged friends this Bonfire Night

As we enjoy Bonfire Night, it’s also worth sparing a thought for our pets. The loud bangs and flashes that make the night so exciting for us can be frightening for animals. If you’re heading out to a fireworks display, make sure your pets are safe indoors with the TV or radio on to help mask the noise.

If you’re planning your own fireworks at home, let neighbours know in advance so they can prepare their pets - and always check bonfires before lighting them, as hedgehogs and other wildlife may have taken shelter inside.

A little extra care goes a long way in keeping everyone safe, happy, and warm this Bonfire Night.

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