New Year's Eve in a city as vibrant, dynamic, and exciting as London is bound to be an unforgettable experience. This metropolitan hub celebrates New Year's Eve in an extravagant way with magnificent fireworks, parties, river cruises and so much more. London lights up for the new year in the most delightful ways possible making it the perfect place to celebrate New Year's Eve in. Other star attractions include river cruises along the Thames to witness some of the iconic landmarks of the city, Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park, pulsating Comedy Clubs, Christmas Circuses and so much more.

Top attractions in London on New Year's Eve

About the weather in London during New Year's Eve

Highest Temp: 6°C to 7°C

Lowest Temp: 3°C to 4°C (can sometimes dip to -1°C to -2°C)

Chances of Rain: There are chances of moderate rainfall, about 1mm.

What to wear: Best to bring out winter attire and dress in multiple layers, with essentials like hats, gloves, boots, and thick coats. Don't forget to carry a scarf and umbrella for extra protection.

London in December

Top 9 things to do in London on New Year's Eve

1. Go partying at London’s top clubs

London on NYE is raging with a multitude of clubbing options, from partying through the decades at Southbank Centre's annual New Year's Eve Spectacular (don't forget to take a break to enjoy the glorious views of London pyrotechnics from the outdoors) to dancing in front of stunning views of the fireworks, cocktail in hand, at the New Year's Eve party at The Shard.

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2. Watch the iconic fireworks display

A true spectacle that locals and tourists alike wait to see on New Year's Eve is the London New Year's Eve fireworks display that lights up central London, year after year on the occasion. The fireworks go off all the way from Victoria Embankment to Westminster Bridge and remain an absolute must-see and the most exciting way to celebrate NYE in London.

3. Go on a river cruise on the Thames

Celebrating New Year's Eve in London on a magical cruise on the river Thames is another way to catch the NYE fireworks all while you enjoy live entertainment and ring in the new year. There are several city cruises to choose from, each sophisticated and as indulgent as the other - dinner cruises, speedboat rides, traditional boat trips with champagne, and live music.

What to Expect: River cruise, live music, food, and alcohol

from £11

4. Go ice skating

A magical winter experience also awaits you at London's popular winter ice skating rinks. It is recommended you enjoy an afternoon skate at any one of London's top ice-skating rinks, and with options like Somerset House to the Natural History Museum to Hampton Court Palace (there are at least 8 places in all), you are to find an ice rink close to you.

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5. New Year’s day parade

Easily one of the most sought-after things to do on New Year's Day is to start the new year off by attending the London New Year’s Day Parade. This stellar event witnesses around 10,000 performers from across the globe and colorful floats parade through central London, along the streets of London's West End.

What to Expect: Huge parade, live performances, street party

6. Visit Tower Bridge

Catching glorious views of the entire city on NYE comes highly recommended and to do this you must head to the Tower Bridge. An iconic historical site, this spot is popular for its unique glass walkways (use the two lifts available to go up, one in the North Tower and the other in the South Tower of the Bridge), elevated 140 ft above the Thames.

from £11.40

7. Visit London Eye

If you want a bird's eye view of the city of London, hop onto the tallest Ferris wheel in all of Europe, that is the London Eye. Constructed in 2000, this cantilevered observation wheel completes a thrilling revolution in around 30 minutes, offering scenes of the London skyline.

from £32.50

8. Visit The Shard

For a bird’s eye view of London and its New Year’s Eve fireworks, go up to The Shard. The Shard is the tallest building in Western Europe and opened its doors to the public in 2013. The phenomenal Skydeck on the 72nd floors bring to you the sounds of the city below at a height of 1016 feet. It's sure to be a magical New Year's Eve at The Shard.

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9. Head to Westminster Bridge

Connecting Westminster on the north to Lambeth on the south, Westminster Bridge is one of the oldest bridges in London. Atop this architectural marvel, you will witness some of the most picturesque views of London. On New Year's, head to Westminster Bridge to find a perfect spot to watch the New Year's Eve fireworks and ring in the new year with pomp and splendor!

Plan your New Year's Eve in London

Getting Around

Where to Eat

Where to stay

Tips for celebrating

Trains: Free travel on the TfL network is usually available, including the Tube, from 11.45pm on New Year's Eve until 4.30am on New Year's Day. Double check fares and timings a day before or on the day. TfL Rail Trains will run every 15 minutes (on the open section of the line) and continue through the night. Replacement buses will run between Chadwell Heath and Shenfield. The first and last trains services will be running on the weekday schedule.

Bus: Buses in London will be running but on a reduced Sunday service. Some day routes will continue through the night. Central London routes will be diverted. Arrival buses will not be operating at all on New Year’s Day. Stagecoach and Megabus buses will be running.

Brunch (Price for 2)

Kahani: from £32
Cherry On: from £20
Bermondsey Bar and Kitchen: from £25

Dinner (Price for 2)

Prices mentioned are for 2 people

Budget
Sohostel: from £40
Travelodge: from £40

Mid-range
The Chilworth: from £122
The Stratford Hotel: from £140
The Hide London: from £110

Luxury
The Milestone Hotel & Residences: from £400
The Beaumont: from £480
The Savoy: from £850

London's temperamental weather can go from incessant rains to sunshine in no time, so it's only wise to carry an umbrella at all times.
Applying and getting an Oyster Card at the airport or nearest station is a smart thing to do. It helps you give the long lines amiss when you're riding the subway.
Definitely use the Hop On Hop Off bus when travelling underground. It is the most economical way to explore London.
Avoid missing shows and events you have already scheduled or paid for by setting your phone clock or wristwatches to military time. London follows the 24-hour clock which means it's easy to mix up timings.
If your destination is close, always map and walk the way to avoid getting stuck in the crowds and traffic on London streets.
Tipping is not the norm in London, especially because all restaurants add a service charge to your bill. However, it isn't rude to tip if you really wish to.

London travel tips

New Year's Eve parties in London

New Year's Eve Masquerade Ball at The Dorchester

A night of mystery, glamour and revelry awaits at The Dorchester's New Year's Eve Masquerade Ball. Enjoy a welcome drink, a five-course dinner, live entertainment and dancing until the early hours of the morning.

Location: The Dorchester, 55 Park Lane, London W1K 1QA | Find it on a map

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SEXY IN BLACK (New Years Eve Party)

Get ready for an unforgettable night of music, dancing and celebration at SEXY IN BLACK, London's hottest New Year's Eve party. Dress to impress and enjoy a night of revelry with the city's most stylish crowd.

Location: The Troxy, 49 Beaumont Street, London E1 4DG | Find it on a map

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New Year's Eve On The Rooftop

Enjoy stunning views of London's skyline and spectacular fireworks display at the New Year's Eve Rooftop Party. This party is perfect for those who want to start the year with a bang.

Location: 100 Shoreditch High St, London E1 6JQ, United Kingdom | Find it on a map

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Glitterfest New Years Eve

Get ready to sparkle and shine at Glitterfest New Years Eve, London's most glamorous New Year's Eve party. This party is all about glitz, glamour, and having a good time.

Location: 184 Camden High Street London NW1 8QP United Kingdom | Find it on a map

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1923 New Years Eve Party

Step back in time to the Roaring Twenties and celebrate the New Year in style at the 1923 New Year's Eve Party. Enjoy a live band, a DJ, dancing, and a photo booth to capture all your memories.

Location: 56 Upper Ground London SE1 9PP United Kingdom | Find it on a map

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Frequently asked questions about celebrating New Year's Eve in London

What are the best things to do in London on New Year’s Eve?

There is no dearth of options when it comes to spending New Year's Eve in London but the best things to do to get the most of the day and night is to experience London's famed NYE fireworks, take an NYE Thames river cruise with views of fireworks, or dine at restaurants which offer amazing views of the fireworks, either rooftops or riversides. You can also hit New Year's Eve clubs and parties to spend the night having the best time of your life or attend NYE shows and concerts.

Where can I watch fireworks in London on New Year’s Eve?

You can enjoy the NYE fireworks on the streets of Central London all the way from Victoria Embankment to Westminster Bridge. If you don't secure a ticket for the same, you can also witness this spectacle from a cruise on river Thames or from restaurants and pubs or iconic buildings like The Shard. In case you can't step out, you can catch the screening on TV on BBC One.

What is the best way to travel around London on New Year’s Eve?

While trains and buses are free from 11:45 PM on New Year’s Eve through to 4:30 AM on New Year’s Day, they’ll likely be crowded. You can hire a taxi for a more comfortable journey but pay around 1.5 times of the normal rate.

Which is the best restaurant to go to on New Year’s Eve in London?

One of London's finest Michelin-star restaurant's Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay, is the best restaurant to go to on New Year's Eve in Central London.

How do I get to central London from Heathrow Airport on New Year’s Eve?

The best way to get to Central London from Heathrow Airport on New Year's Eve is by hailing a cab. Bear in mind that you will be paying 1.5 times the normal rate though!

Are there any restrictions on alcohol consumption in public places?

You can carry and consume alcohol in public places on New Year’s Eve but make sure you are not carrying them in glass bottles.

What are the best places for brunch on New Year's Eve in London?

Bermondsey Bar and Kitchen, Kahani, Cherry On are some of the best places for brunch in New Year's Eve.

What are the best places for dinner on New Year's Eve in London?

Uno Restaurant and the Montague Kitchen are some of the best places for dinner on New Year's Eve in London.

How do I get around London on New Year's Eve?

The subway and buses are the best way to get around London on New Year's Eve 2024.