Often named as one of the top places in the world to spend New Year’s Eve, London is a glorious mix of fireworks, fancy dress and questionable dance moves on 31st December.
Whether you’re into glitzy masquerade balls, indie discos or watching fireworks from a barge, the capital’s got you covered.
And once the confetti settles, there’s still plenty to enjoy on New Year’s Day.
How to Spend New Year's Eve in London
Here are some great ways to spend new year’s eve in London and enjoy all the capital has to offer on 31st.
The Fireworks - London’s Big Show
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The midnight fireworks over the Thames are the New Year's Eve event.
A dazzling 10-minute display with a dramatic soundtrack that makes you feel like you’re in a movie montage.
Where to Watch London’s NYE Fireworks
- The ticketed event - Head to the South Bank for prime views of the fireworks. Tickets sell out fast, so book early. You’ll be herded through barriers, but it’s worth it.
- Free alternatives - Try Primrose Hill, Hampstead Heath or Alexandra Palace. They offer sweeping views of the city skyline, minus the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds.
- From the river - Cruise the Thames on a boat decked out with Champagne and DJs. It’s a pricey option, but you’ll get front-row views without anyone blocking your camera.
The Best New Year’s Eve Events in London
Not everyone fancies freezing on a hill or fighting for elbow room on the South Bank.
Thankfully, London offers a lot of options for celebrating.
Whether you're into food, glittering parties or just someone who likes being indoors, here are some of the top New Year’s Eve events in London for 2024/25.
Feast Your Way Into the New Year
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Everyone knows the "new year, new me" resolution is much easier to stick to following a massive farewell feast.
Here are some ideas for a gastro blowout on the threshold of 2025.
- Sky-high dinners: Head to Duck & Waffle or Aqua Shard for top food with views that'll make your Instagram followers jealous. Sure it's pricey. But you’re paying for the experience and the bragging rights.
- New Years Eve supper clubs: Check out New Year's eve editions of secret supper clubs and pop-ups. There may be a low-key banquet at the ready.
- Quirky dining: How about dinner on the Thames? Book a New Year's Eve river cruise with food, drinks and front-row seats to the fireworks.
Dance ‘Til the Morning Light
London has New Year’s Eve parties in every pub, club and warehouse from Shoreditch to Soho.
But the below examples offer a little something different.
Ramp up the Glamour with a Masquerade Ball
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- Where: Quaglino’s, St James’s.
- Tickets: From £50
- Vibe: Decadent, dramatic and full of people saying, "I feel like I’m in Bridgerton".
What?: Fancy sipping champagne, wearing a mask and dancing under the assurance of anonymity? Quaglino's is hosting an opulent masquerade ball, complete with live music, DJs and a five-course feast.
It's glitzy, glamorous and perfect for anyone who likes their year-end with a touch of mystery.
Go Back to the Roaring 20s
- Where?: German Gymnasium, King's Cross.
- Tickets: From £20.
- Vibe: Vintage chic meets Berlin decadence in a beautiful grade II-listed historical building.
What?: Step back to 1920s Berlin with the German Gymnasium’s golden 20s party. Think Art Deco glamour, live music and enough champagne to make the Berlin cabaret scene proud.
Dress in your best flapper outfit, channel your inner Josephine Baker and prepare for a night of Gatsby-level decadence.
Join the Indie Elite at Legendary Club Night
- Where: Signature Brew, Haggerston.
- Tickets: £13.
- Vibe: Dancing shoes on, glitter optional.
What?: On New Year's Eve, London's indie music glitterati will no doubt be heading to the end-of-year edition of the legendary How Does It Feel to Be Loved event.
Taking place at Signature Brew tap room near Haggerston tube station, expect indie pop, Motown and Northern Soul.
It's a no-frills alternative to London's mainstream club nights.
Party on Battersea Barge
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- Where: Battersea Barge, Vauxhall.
- Tickets: From £20.
- Vibe: Quirky waterside fun. Less crowded than South Bank, but just as memorable.
What?: Why not ring in the new year on a barge? Battersea Barge, moored by the Thames, is hosting a lively bash with food, drinks, live music and DJ sets.
The views of London lit up at night are just the icing on the cake.
New Year’s Eve for in London for Introverts
Not all heroes wear capes. Some stay home with snacks, watch the fireworks on TV and make a date with their duvet by 12:30.
If you’re not up for battling the masses, here’s how to have a low-key new year in London.
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Book a hotel with views: Splash on a hotel with a view, such as The Savoy, ME London, or a riverside Airbnb. You’ll get all the sparkle with none of the stress.
Find a quiet pub: Some smaller pubs, especially in West London, can be quieter than their more central counterparts. Grab a pint, enjoy the countdown and leave before someone breaks a resolution.
Head to the parks: Bring a blanket, a thermos of something warm and watch the city light up from afar. Hampstead Heath and Greenwich Park are perfect for this.
London New Year’s Day Parade
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You survived the countdown, avoided losing your shoes and made it back home. Now what?
London never takes a day off, even on the first day of the year. Don’t miss the action - grab a spot to view the famous London New Year's Day Parade.
This enormous, colourful parade kicks off to noon and winds through central London.
Expect floats, marching bands, dancers and performers from all over the world.
Route: The parade starts at Piccadilly, moves down Regent Street and ends near Westminster.
When?: 12pm onwards on Wednesday 1st January.
Why go?: It's free, family-friendly and a great way to welcome a new year.
Pro tip: Arrive early to bag a good spot. Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square get crowded fast.
Tips for Surviving New Year's Eve in London
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Navigating public transport in London on New Year's Eve can feel like a game of survival. But it’s doable if you plan ahead.
- Taxis: Expect surge pricing and a long wait. Save yourself the stress and embrace walking if you can.
- Maps at the ready: Whether it's Google Maps or Citymapper, you'll need maps to hand for getting across the city. Add an Airalo eSIM to keep you online.
- Dress warm: Bring your big coat. Sequins and satin are no match for the English weather.
- Plan your exit: Trains will be packed. Leave a little early to beat the rush.
- Charge your phone: The last thing you want is to miss the fireworks as you’re hunting for your battery pack.
- Go with the flow: Whether you’re dancing on a barge or belting out indie tunes in Walthamstow, the best nights happen when you embrace the chaos.
Stay Connected as Big Ben Strikes 12
New Year’s Eve in London is big, bold and completely unforgettable - just like the year ahead.
Wherever you end up in London, make sure you start 2025 stress-free - download an Airalo eSIM for Europe and enjoy seamless data access across the UK and beyond.
Cheers to a connected New Year!
