New Year's Eve in London: fireworks, tickets and tips

Celebrate the New Year in London, It's about witnessing one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in Europe, launched over the Thames at the foot of the London Eye. On December 31, 2026, the entire city will be preparing from the afternoon onwards. Having lived in the UK since 2012, we'll tell you how to get tickets, where to watch the show, and what to do on January 1st.

New Year's fireworks in London

At midnight, the bells of Big Ben ring in the new year. The fireworks display then begins on the River Thames, around the London Eye, accompanied by music. British television broadcasts the show live.

Hundreds of thousands of people flock to the riverbanks every year. That's why the City of London has set up paid viewing areas with a limited number of spaces.

UP TO YOU

What kind of traveler are you for? New Year's Eve in London: fireworks, tickets and tips "?

5 quick questions to see what suits you best.

Question 1 of 5

In the city, you enjoy exploring…

On foot, neighborhood by neighborhoodMajor sites first

Question 2 of 5

Need a break?

A local cafe or pubA museum or a monument

Question 3 of 5

What appeals to you most?

The atmosphere of the streets and marketsHistory and architecture

Question 4 of 5

In the evening, you would rather choose…

A good restaurant and a lively neighborhoodA show or a visit

Question 5 of 5

With a few free hours?

You let yourself be carried awayYou add an essential

New Year's Eve tickets in London

Without a ticket, it is impossible to enter the areas located along the banks of the Thames. London City Hall website details six zones, including one zone accessible to people with reduced mobility.

For the last edition, tickets cost £55 in category A and £40 in category B, excluding fees. A reduced rate was also available for Londoners. Sales are conducted through Ticketmaster, usually in several waves during the autumn, and tickets sell out within hours.

Pricing and sales dates for December 31, 2026 have not yet been announced. Sign up for alerts now. Also, avoid unofficial resale sites: only official resale at the original price is valid.

Where can I see the fireworks without a ticket?

Several hills offer distant views of the city lights and illuminations. Primrose Hill and Parliament Hill, on Hampstead Heath, are particularly popular. To the east, Greenwich Park also offers a lovely panorama of the City.

For added comfort, some restaurants and bars with a view host a New Year's Eve party. Thames cruises also offer dinner on board. However, these options must be booked several months in advance.

What to do in London on January 1st?

On January 1st, a grand parade winds its way through central London from noon, featuring marching bands, dancers, and floats. Afterwards, you can stroll along the still-decorated south bank of the Thames. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park also remains open until early January. For a more relaxed visit after the holidays, consider booking the Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum, on display until July 11, 2027.

For the following days, explore the London's off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods, or treat yourself to a afternoon tea in London. If you arrive before Christmas, our Christmas markets in London They are also waiting for you.

Our tips for New Year's Eve in London

• Book your hotel early: prices on December 31st rise quickly in the city centre.
• Arrive in your area as soon as the gates open, around 8 p.m.
• Expect lengthy road closures starting in the afternoon of December 31st.
• Check the transport timetables: the metro runs all night, but some stations near the river close.
• Dress warmly: you will be outside for several hours, by the water.
• Finally, make sure you have a passport and an ETA authorization, as explained in our guide to entry formalities to the United Kingdom.

New Year's in London or Hogmanay in Edinburgh?

London primarily offers a grand spectacle, centered around the fireworks. Edinburgh, on the other hand, offers several days of festivities, including a torchlight procession, concerts, and a large street party. For comparison, read our guide to...’Hogmanay in Edinburgh.

Frequently asked questions about New Year's Eve in London

Do you need a ticket for the New Year's Eve fireworks in London?

Yes, for areas located along the Thames. Without a ticket, you will have to watch the show from further away, for example from a hill.

How much does a ticket cost?

For the last edition, tickets cost £55 in category A and £40 in category B, excluding fees. Prices for 2026 are not yet available.

What time should we arrive?

The doors usually open around 8pm and close before 10:30pm. So arrive early to choose your spot.

Does the subway run on the night of December 31st?

Yes, a large part of the network operates all night. However, some stations in the city center close to avoid overcrowding.

Is it possible to celebrate New Year's Eve in London with children?

Yes, but the crowds and the late hour quickly tire younger people. A quieter location, like Greenwich Park, is then more suitable.

Celebrate New Year's Eve in London with Brightside Travel

Our team organizes your stay in London, from the hotel to the sightseeing. Discover, for example, our getaway London by helicopter, our stay Christmas markets in London, or a tailor-made trip to England.

BRIGHTSIDE TRAVEL

Do you want to experience this trip?

Our local team creates your tailor-made itinerary in the UK and Ireland.

Create my trip