Roman Candles

Roman candles are one of the most versatile and visually rewarding fireworks you can buy. A single tube firing a sequence of coloured stars, effects and bursts into the sky — roman candles are perfect as standalone pieces in a smaller display, brilliant when used in fan formations for a wider spread of colour, and an essential building block in any serious fireworks display.

Here at Fireworks Shop we stock roman candles from leading manufacturers including Celtic Fireworks, Vulcan, Zeus, Funke, Jorge, Klasek and Standard Fireworks — covering everything from entry-level single-tube candles under £10 to premium multi-shot arrays with 150+ shots and professional-grade effects.

What is a roman candle?

A roman candle is a single cylindrical tube that fires a series of individual shots — stars, comets, pearls or effect bursts — one at a time into the sky. Unlike a barrage or cake which fires multiple tubes simultaneously, a roman candle fires each shot in sequence, giving you a rhythmic, controlled display. They come in a huge variety of shot counts, from compact tubes right up to 150-shot giants, and in both low noise and full effect versions.

Roman candles can be used individually, held in sand or a launching tube, or grouped together in a fan formation to spread colour across a wider arc of sky. Fanning three or five candles is a popular technique among enthusiasts — it creates a spectacular spread of colour that's hard to achieve any other way.

Roman candle bundles

As well as individual roman candles, we also stock roman candle bundles. A bundle is multiple tubes linked together by a single fuse, firing as one coordinated piece. Retail bundles typically contain up to 20 tubes, each capable of firing up to 20 shots — delivering a rapid sequence of effects in one go. Great used in pairs or tridents on a wide firing site, creating spectacular criss-cross effects across the sky.

F2 vs F3 roman candles

Many of our roman candles are Category F2, requiring just 8 metres safety distance — perfectly manageable in most average-sized back gardens. We also stock F3 candles requiring 25 metres — more powerful products designed for larger outdoor spaces and professional-style displays. Check the individual product pages for safety distance and always follow the instructions.

Low noise roman candles

A large proportion of our roman candle range is rated low noise — meaning they fire their effects with a soft crackle or hiss rather than a sharp bang. This makes them an excellent choice for displays near animals, young children, or noise-sensitive neighbours. Browse our full low noise fireworks range for more options across every category.

How to use roman candles safely

• Always secure the candle firmly before lighting — stake and tape it, use a bucket of sand, or a dedicated holder
• Never hold a roman candle in your hand while it is firing
• Maintain the correct safety distance shown on the product label
• Light the fuse and retire immediately to a safe distance
• Never return to a roman candle that has failed to fire — wait at least 10 minutes then douse with water
• Keep spectators behind — never in front of the firing direction

For full fireworks safety guidance visit our safety advice page. If you need help choosing the right roman candles for your display, call us on 01772 877860 — we're always happy to advise.

Order online for UK delivery, or visit us in store at 225 Station Road, Bamber Bridge, Preston, PR5 6LD. Open 10am-4pm Saturdays, Monday to Friday by appointment.