When I was little I have to admit that bonfire night wasn't really my thing - that cacophony of bangs instilled a sense of panic, sometimes leading to the odd nightmare too.

That's all very much a thing of the past, so much so that you could probably class me as a fan these days! I think I've developed a much deeper appreciation of this uniquely British tradition that's actually steeped in history. There's nothing quite like bonfire night for celebrating the onset of Autumn, watching the breathtaking fireworks display around a bonfire.

This year in Croydon, the annual displays scheduled around the parks in the area are sure to keep us all entertained and "oohing" and "aahing" with the best of them!

For the lowdown on where to go in Croydon for your fireworks and bonfire night extravaganza, here goes:

Charshalton Fireworks: Carshalton Park

When? Saturday 2 November 2013

What time? Gates open at 5pm with the display beginning at 7pm. The bonfire will be lit at 7.30pm.

How much? Advanced tickets costing £5.00 (kids under 5 go free), visit your local newsagent. On the night tickets cost £7.50.

Morden Fireworks: London Road

When? Saturday 2 November 2013

What time? Gates open at 5.15pm. The junior bonfire begins at 6.30pm followed by the fireworks display at 6.45pm.

The main event begins at 8.15pm with the lighting of the bonfire followed by a second fireworks display at 8.30pm. Sidestalls and the fairground remain open until 10pm.

How much? Tickets: £8.00 for adults, £6.00 for kids under 16. Kids under 4 go free!

Family tickets (two adults and two children) are also available at £25.00.

Beckenham Fireworks: Croydon Road

When? Saturday 2 November 2013

What time? Gates open at 6pm, with the display itself beginning at 8pm.

How much? £5.00 for adults , £3.00 for accompanied children under the age of 16. Kids under 5 go free!

Crystal Palace: Crystal Palace Park

When? Tuesday 5 November 2013

What time? The first begins with a children's display of colourful fireworks but not quite as many bangs at the earlier time of 7pm.

This is then followed by a main display with bigger explosions (and bangs!) set to music – at 8.30pm.

How much? Adults £6; Children ages 3 -10yrs £4; Children under 3 FREE

So have fun this year and stay safe!

Image courtesy of cursedthing's photostream on flickr.com