London New Years Eve 2024

Fireworks over the Thames, top celebrations and parties in London for new years eve 2023-2024

There will be millions of people who have London on their bucket list for places to celebrate New Years Eve.

It's such an iconic location and the 31st December is typically centred on the midnight fireworks display over the River Thames, viewable for miles around and with the most prestigious vantage points along the river's banks sold to ticket holders on a first-come first-served basis.

New Years Eve Fireworks

The fireworks usually last around 11 minutes and take place on the Thames around the London Eye, so anywhere along the river should afford you a pretty decent view. The arrival of midnight is also welcomed with the traditional rendition of Auld Lang Syne by the crowds gathered along the banks of the Thames.

To be at the official fireworks event is a ticketed event, but of course, as we said, there are plenty of other locations nearby to take in the spectacular sight!

There are also decent fireworks views to be had from the Southbank Centre, where they also hold a big new year party at 12th Knot and Royal Festival Hall, while the Natural History Museum usually hosts a popular new year event.

Fireworks Tickets

One recent development for new years eve in London is that visitors are now charged to attend the main fireworks display, with 103,000 tickets being made available at 15 pounds each - there are a total of 6 different viewing areas - the blue, red, pink, green and white areas, as well as the accessible viewing area.

With crowds at previous events several times greater than the available ticket numbers there are sure to be many people left disappointed, so make sure if you're going you get your tickets asap - they generally sell out by the beginning of December. Tickets available here.

They actually close down areas of Southbank on new years eve, so you really do need a ticket for the best riverside views, although it's not the end of the world if you do miss out, there are several areas you can still watch the fireworks from just a little further away...

Best Fireworks Views

If you prefer not to pay, or indeed endure the crowds, you can also watch London New Years Eve Fireworks display from a variety of land-based vantage points.

Watch the free fireworks from Westminster Bridge and Victoria Embankment, Greenwich Hill, Primrose Hill, Parliament Hill on Hampstead Heath or one of the several hugely popular London rooftop bars.

New Year's Eve: The Four Elements

Another iconic party is returning this year, where you can party with the dinos, is on at the Natural History Museum! There will be a Silent disco, live music and the chance to go exploring the many galleries after dark. Themed fancy dress is very much encouraged with a prize for the best dressed, it's going to be amazing! Get your tickets now.

New Years Eve at Somerset House

Get ready for festival style fun, with great music, food, drink and entertainment, oh and of course the ice rink! Don't miss out! Full details and tickets here.

NYE Gala Dinner on board the British Pullman Train

Make your way back to the roaring 20s as you step on board these gorgeous vintage carriages to a champagne reception. You'll be waited on hand and foot by liveried stewards as you enjoy a 5 course dinner with champagne and fine wines. The train leaves from London Victoria. Full details and to book here

New Years Eve at Southbank Centre

There's a lot going on at Southbank Centre over the festive period. Full details, once events have been announced, will be available here: Southbank Centre NYE

The London New Years Eve Ball - Evolution London

Mardi Gras Carnivale comes to Evolution at Battersea Park, London in this epic venue. There will be canapes, fizz and a 4 course banquet. There is a live 6 piece band, DJs, an impressive Carnivale show with performances throughout the evening giving you an incredible New Years Eve Experience that you'll remember! So much fun to be had, with a fairground vibe with dodgems. Get your tickets now.

NYE Parties & Events

Don't worry too much if you miss out on the fireworks tickets though as there is always loads going on throughout London on new years eve - you can find a plethora of suggestions catering to most tastes and budgets via the new years eve section on Visit London.

NYE River Cruises

One of the most popular diversions for those with a decent budget is to take a cruise on the River Thames, pretty much guaranteeing yourself one of the best views of the city. Check out some of the cruises available here.

London New Years Day Parade

If you're in London on new years eve then it makes sense to also stick around for the parade on new years day, which is a spectacle well worth seeing.

For full details of this years parade, including the times, lineup and options for live online streams, visit here: London New Year Parade 2024

New Years Eve Hotels

London's hotels will be packed to the rafters right through the Christmas and New Year period, so be sure to secure your reservation well in advance.

It's generally a little cheaper to look south of the river if you don't mind travelling a little further to the parties in the city centre, there are even some savings to be head just by heading out walking distance away, which will also dave you the hassle of negiotiating new years eve taxis and public transport.

You can search for deals at all of the top London accommodation, and find all the best deals on the top London NYE hotels here.

NYE Live Stream

The London new years eve fireworks can be normally be watched on TV, with excellent coverage via the BBC that is also available as an online webcast stream. This year the live broadcast of 2024 Highlights will be available on BBC and BBC iplayer.

There are also some live streaming webcam views ideally located to watch the display - see the full range of live coverage options here:

London fireworks streaming

Latest NYE News

The content on this page is written and maintained by Martin Kerrigan. If you have found it useful then please feel free to share it with your friends and family. If you have any comments or events to add to this page please Contact us.

This site uses cookies, continued use constitutes acceptance. See our Privacy Policy