Celebrating New Year in London is a magical experience, being surrounded by bright lights and beautiful attractions. The city hosts exciting events on New Year’s Eve, including live performances and fireworks. Whether you’re seeking to count down the hours and minutes to a New Year with electric light shows or seeking a quiet evening filled with beautiful city views, London has all party options available. Let’s discover why London is among the top places to celebrate the new year and things to do on this special day.
10 Best Places To Celebrate New Year In London
Here’s a list of the top 10 places to welcome the new beginning in style and celebrate New Year in London:
1. The London Eye Fireworks Display
One of the most awaited New Year events in London is the fireworks show at the London Eye. Vast numbers of people flock to the banks of the River Thames to be enthralled by this site, during which people sing or play live music using several popular songs and even symphonies. The atmosphere becomes tense shortly before midnight as the Big Ben clock ticks to the New Year. It is important to get your seat early because we have limited seats for this exciting show.
Location: South Bank, London SE1 7PB
Nearby Restaurant: Enjoy riverside dining at Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar, offering stunning views of the fireworks and delicious British cuisine
2. The Shard’s Sky-High Celebrations
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You can enjoy the most exciting New Year party in London, with fabulous views of the city and fireworks, at The Shard. You will get to dance with a live DJ and have a welcome drink, and Champagne is offered to everyone at the New Year’s midnight. Enjoy the chance to see one of the most captivating spectacles of larger-than-life New Year fireworks of London right from the comfort of your reserved seat.
Location: 32 London Bridge Street, London SE1 9SG
Nearby Restaurant: Aqua Shard provides an exquisite fine dining experience with contemporary British cuisine and stunning views of the city
3. Southbank Centre
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New Year’s Eve can be enjoyed at the Southbank Centre in London. It hosts the best parties with night music, dancers, and DJs playing through the night. It has various rooms and different themed parties, making it a perfect party place for everyone. You can experience bright fireworks displays closer to the river banks of Thames and witness the moment as the lights from the fireworks take over the city’s skyline. Comptoir Libanais is a restaurant and bar in Southbank centre that provides an Arabian night with performances and a terrace with a view of the London firework show.
Location: Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX
Nearby Restaurant: Skylon, located within the Southbank Centre, offers modern European dishes and river views, perfect for a pre-party meal
4. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
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Are you looking for a family New Year party in London? The Hyde Park Carnival presents families the option to celebrate the new year here with fun activities like Winter Wonderland, ice Skating, Carnival Rides and Live entertainment. This lively park is beautifully decorated, so it is ideal for family outings. People can have a chance to explore the merry food stalls and celebrate with some great performances and enchanting festive shows. However, the entry policy may vary with the time of visit, especially on New Year’s Eve, and acquiring the tickets earlier is recommended.
Location: Hyde Park, London W2 2UH
Nearby Restaurant: The Serpentine Bar & Kitchen offers a cosy retreat with hearty meals and views of Hyde Park’s serene lakes
5. The Thames Dinner Cruise
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If you plan to host a London New Year party, you can always opt for the Thames dinner cruise. People can enjoy the beautiful night views of the London landmarks and tasty meals, with live shows on these glistening cruises, on New year eve’s. In the evening, one can spend time on the deck and get the best view of the city’s fantastic fireworks after midnight. The City Cruise proves to be one of the best places to create a memorable time with the family, during New Year celebrations.
Location: Various departure points along the Thames.
Nearby Restaurant: If you prefer dining onshore, Sea Containers at Mondrian London serves delectable dishes with riverside seating.
6. Natural History Museum Silent Disco
Photo: Miloš Grubac, EXIT Photo Team / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Natural History Museum’s Silent Disco, a one-of-a-kind event that combines music, history, and festive fun. Dance to your choice of music on multiple channels played by live DJs while surrounded by the awe-inspiring setting of Hintze Hall, home to the majestic blue whale skeleton, Hope. The event also offers themed bars serving an array of drinks to keep your spirits high. Guests can explore the museum’s stunning galleries after dark, adding a magical and unique touch to their New Year celebration.
Location: Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD
Nearby Restaurant:The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
7. London’s New Year Day Parade
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London’s New Year’s Day Parade is an annual spectacle and features exciting floats, marching bands, cheerleaders, acrobats, and performers from around the globe. The parade showcases cultural diversity, creativity, and unity, creating a festive and family-friendly atmosphere. Beginning in Piccadilly and traveling through Regent Street and Whitehall, the route offers spectators views of central London’s landmarks as the procession passes by.
Location: Central London (Route varies yearly)
Nearby Restaurant: After enjoying the parade, visit Brasserie Zédel near Piccadilly Circus for classic French cuisine in an elegant setting.
8. Londoner Hotel’s Masquerade Ball
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Step into a world of elegance and mystery at the Londoner Hotel’s Masquerade Ball this New Year’s Eve. Guests are invited to don glamorous masks and formal attire to enjoy a night of opulence and celebration. The evening includes live music, exquisite cocktails, and a gourmet dining experience in the luxurious surroundings of the Londoner Hotel. Dance the night away in a beautifully decorated ballroom and toast to the New Year in style. This sophisticated event combines charm, exclusivity, and entertainment, making it the perfect choice for those seeking a memorable and upscale celebration.
Location: The Londoner Hotel, Leicester Square, WC2H 7DX
Nearby Restaurant: Start your evening at Dishoom Covent Garden, known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious Indian dishes
9. Westminster Bridge
Photo: Martin Dunst / Wikimedia Commons
Westminster Bridge is one of London’s most iconic spots to celebrate New Year’s Eve and witness the city’s spectacular fireworks display. The lively atmosphere builds as midnight approaches, with the countdown creating an electrifying moment. As the clock strikes twelve, the sky comes alive with vibrant colors and dazzling patterns, reflecting beautifully over the River Thames. This free event attracts large crowds, so arriving early is essential to secure a good spot.
Location: Westminster Bridge, London SW1A 2JH
Nearby Restaurant: For a delightful pre-fireworks dinner, visit Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar for riverside views and classic British fare.
10. SUSHISAMBA Heron Tower
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Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style at SUSHISAMBA, located atop the Heron Tower. Known for its fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisines, this chic rooftop restaurant offers a dining experience like no other. With panoramic views of London’s skyline, live DJs, and an exciting party atmosphere, SUSHISAMBA sets the stage for an unforgettable evening. The combination of exquisite food, beautiful views, and lively entertainment makes SUSHISAMBA a prime destination for those seeking an energetic celebration.
Location: Heron Tower, Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AY
Nearby Restaurant: For a quieter option, Duck & Waffle, also in the Heron Tower, offers refined British
cuisine with impressive city views
New Year in London is an experience you are sure to remember. The city comes alive with fireworks, fun parties and has a welcoming vibe for all. Regardless of whether you are with loved ones, friends, or even alone, it is the right place to start the New Year and have a good time. Organise your trip to London with TripXL and plan your visit stress-free to welcome the New Year.
Cover Photo: Charles Postiaux / Unsplash