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What to Do on New Year's Eve in London

Updated: April 22, 2024
 By Margaret

If you find yourself in London on December 31st, you are in for a treat!

There are hundreds of New Year’s Eve celebrations and parties you can attend. This post lists the best of the lot!


1. Watch the New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show

The spectacular New Year’s Eve Fireworks display set off next to the London Eye is considered one of the best New Year’s Eve events, not just in London, but around the world.

For the very best views, you can purchase a ticket that gives you access to the official viewing locations along the River Thames.

You can also see the fireworks for free from various places around London like Primrose Hill and Parliament Hill.

Read our post Where to See the New Year's Eve Fireworks in London to find out more.


2. Take a Fireworks Cruise

Head out on the River Thames for amazing close-up views of the fireworks and a festivity-filled New Year’s Eve.

There are all kinds of cruises at different price points. Some are family-friendly while others are geared toward adult fun with open bars, live entertainment, a dancefloor, and more.

Prices are generally between £200 and £225.

Family-Friendly

Adults-Only

These party boats welcome anyone aged 18 and over.

They offer full bars, a live DJ or live entertainment, dancing, appetizers, and more. The dress code is semi-formal.

Other Fireworks Cruises

These options have more of a party atmosphere and may not be the best choice for those with kids, although children are welcome.

See more options here.


3. Dinner and Fireworks Cruises

Enjoy dinner in style and breathtaking views of the fireworks from the River Thames.

These dinner packages typically last five hours and include a three-course meal, a glass of wine, a glass of champagne, live entertainment, and a fully paid bar.

Prices start from £225. The higher the cost of the ticket, the more food and drink are included.

See more options here.


4. Go to a New Year's Party

You can find dozens of venues across London hosting New Year’s Eve parties with dancing, drinking, and an all-around celebratory vibe.

Glitterfest New Year's Eve

Ring in the New Year at the Electric Ballroom in Camden with sparkles, glitter, confetti cannons, circus acts, and non-stop raving dancing to R’ n ’B, Hip Hop, and more.

The dress code is anything sparkles.

NYE Silent Disco London

This annual event takes place at Banking Hall, one of London's most iconic venues.

Join in with 500 other revelers dancing to three sensational DJs spinning everything from garage music to chart-topping hits.

New Year's Eve Masquerade Party

One of the hottest ways to celebrate the New Year is at Neverland London. Dress to impress and to disguise.

Sip on specialty cocktails, nibble at canapes, and get ready to toast some bubbly after the countdown to midnight.

Find out about other New Year’s Eve parties here.


5. Dinner With a View

Dine out in style at one of these London Restaurants with stellar views of London and the NYE Fireworks.

Skylon is serving a seven-course feast with creative dishes. A live band will perform. The views are phenomenal.

Le Pont de la Tour, with unrivaled riverside views of London and the fireworks, is offering a special five-course menu.

Tattershall Castle at Victoria Embankment is directly opposite the London Eye plus there will be unlimited bubbly and scrumptious flavour fusion canapés.

Other restaurants with views of the River Thames:

Be sure to check in advance if each will be open late on New Year’s Eve.

Here are other restaurants with awesome views of the London skyline.


6. Bars With a View

If you are looking for a place to have cocktails while admiring the view of London, try these indoor bars and bars with rooftops that will have a view of the fireworks.


7. Special Events

Looking for something different for New Year’s Eve? These special events should do the trick!

New Year's Eve at Somerset House

Ice skate, dance, dine, and toast the New Year at this iconic London ice rink.

Then celebrate the midnight moment on Somerset House’s River Terrace, with views of the NYE Fireworks. 

Read about ice skating at Somerset House and other rinks in London during the holiday season.

New Year’s Eve at the Natural History Museum

After its first NYE party event in 2022, the Natural History Museum is back in 2024 with fun activities for people of all ages.

You'll also have the opportunity to roam some of the museum’s galleries before the countdown to midnight.

New Year's Eve Spectacular at the Southbank Centre

Join the festivities across five floors in the world-famous Royal Festival Hall.

Dance to music from the 1920s to now or take dance lessons. 

Drink at six bars and dine at one of several potions. Then watch the NYE Fireworks from one of the outdoor spaces.

Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder

Celebrate with the family with this time-tested kids’ favorite.

2024 schedule is yet to be announced but last production was at the O2 Arena from December 21st to December 31st.

On New Year’s Eve, there are two shows, one at 9:30 am and one at 13:30 (1:30 pm).

Read about other Christmas Shows in London in 2024.


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About The Author

Margaret

An American simply by accident of birth, Margaret moved to London over 16 years ago and hasn’t looked back since! With a keen interest in History – and a BA degree to match – Margaret prides herself on her knowledge of the amazing city she calls home and she's been guiding here now for nearly a decade. Social history is her real expertise, with sound understanding of the day-to-day lives of Londoners over the past centuries. Read More...
Updated: April 22nd, 2024
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