This post is about how you can see the iconic London New Year's Eve fireworks display.
We include information about where and when they take place, how to get tickets, where you can see them for free, and other ways to get great views.
- Where Do They Take Place
- How to Get Tickets
- When Do They Start
- Where to See the Fireworks For Free
- Other Ways to See the Fireworks
- What to Do on New Year's Eve in London
WHERE DO THEY TAKE PLACE
The London New Year’s Eve Fireworks show takes place near the London Eye.
For the very best views, along the River Thames, you can purchase a ticket that gives you access to the official viewing locations.
These stretch from Victoria Embankment to Westminster Bridge and Waterloo Bridge.
An accessible viewing area will be on Albert Embankment.
HOW TO GET TICKETS
In 2024, there will be 100,000 tickets available.
The first batch of 50,000 tickets typically goes on sale in October via the See Tickets website. You can buy up to four tickets.
The second batch of 50,000 tickets will go on sale in early December.
The earlier you book, the better. Tickets will most likely sell out fast.
Last year, the price was £15 per ticket and they likely will be so again in 2024.
There are six viewing areas - Blue, Red, Pink, Green, White, and Orange (the accessible viewing area). You can't move between viewing areas.
It makes sense for you to book tickets on the side of the river from which you will arrive and leave as there will be bridge closures that night.
Note: Be careful not to buy tickets from any source other than the official ticket website. You may be sold counterfeit tickets.
WHEN DO THE FIREWORKS START?
The event starts at 20:00 (8 pm) on December 31st. At 21:00 (9 pm) a DJ will start playing music to set the festive mood.
A countdown to midnight takes place and then a spectacular 12-minute fireworks display will be launched, synchronized with a soundtrack created for the occasion.
Big Ben will chime along at midnight as well.
The DJ will continue to play until 12:30 am to encourage crowds to stay a while longer and keep people from departing all at once, thus avoiding crowding at the exits.
Note that you must enter your viewing area between 20:30 (8:30 pm) to 22:30 (10:30 pm).
Plan your night out well in advance to ensure you arrive on time.
WHERE TO SEE THE FIREWORKS FOR FREE
If you don't want to pay to join the crowds of revellers or you weren't lucky enough to get a ticket, these are some places where you can view the fireworks for free.
Central London
Close to the official viewing areas, Cannon Street from St. Paul’s Cathedral to Monument is a great spot to see fireworks. Be sure to arrive early as it will be quite crowded.
The Central London bridges will also be packed, but again, the earlier you go, the more likely it is you will be able to grab a spot.
Southwark Bridge and Millennium Bridge are close to the official viewing areas but will be filled to the brim.
Vauxhall Bridge and Lambeth Bridge are only slightly farther away from the action but will be a bit less crowded.
As famous as it may be, Tower Bridge does not afford as good views as the other bridges.
Do not go to Westminster Bridge, Golden Jubilee Footbridge, or Waterloo Bridge as they will not be open to the public after 14:00 (2 pm).
North London
Primrose Hill in Regent's Park
Located on the north side of the park, this is one of London’s highest points. At 76 metres high, the peak of Primrose Hill offers excellent views of London.
Go early if you want to land a good spot.
Parliament Hill on Hampstead Heath
Year-round the views of London from Hampstead Heath are spectacular here. It’s especially so on New Year’s Eve.
Although the hill is 98 metres high, the fireworks will be farther off in the distance than Primrose Hill.
To reach Parliament Hill, enter the Heath near Gospel Oak station.
Alexandra Palace
Even farther out from Central London than the above locations, those living or staying in North London will enjoy views of the city with plenty of breathing room.
South London
In Greenwich Park, from Point Hill, you’ll have great views of the fireworks.
OTHER WAYS TO GET GREAT VIEWS OF THE FIREWORKS
For a special evening that includes a fantastic view of the fireworks, take a New Year's Eve cruise on the River Thames.
You can also attend a New Year's Eve party at one of the nearby restaurants, lounges, and bars.
Read more about both these options from our post, What to Do on New Year's Eve in London.
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