A Guide To Planning New Year’s Eve London 2024

Looking for the best way to welcome 2025 in London? We’ve got you covered with everything from the London Eye fireworks to smaller celebrations across the city. After living through countless London NYEs (and making every mistake in the book), we’re here to share all the insider tips you need to make this New Year's Eve absolutely unforgettable.

The Famous London NYE Fireworks 2024

If you've been dreaming of watching London's legendary NYE fireworks in person, you're not alone - this is hands down one of the most spectacular New Year's celebrations in Europe. This year's show is set to be bigger than ever, with an incredible 12,000 fireworks lighting up the Thames. The best part? You've still got a chance to be there in person.

The whole event can host 100,000 people, and here's what you need to know about getting your spot:

• Tickets typically cost between £20-£50 per person
• The show kicks off at 8:00 PM and runs until 12:30 AM
• Official viewing areas stretch along both sides of the Thames
• Each ticket has a specific viewing zone - stick to yours for the best experience

Pro tip: Can't get tickets to the official zones? Don’t worry, there are alternative spots. The rooftop at One New Change shopping center offers a fantastic free view of the fireworks, and you don't need to book ahead. Just get there early - and we mean early!

Thames River Cruise NYE

Want to dodge the crowds while still getting prime firework views? A Thames river cruise might be your perfect NYE solution. Here are your best options:

City Cruises' NYE Gala Dinner (£325 per person):

• Five-course dinner with champagne
• Live band playing through the evening
• Guaranteed window seat for the fireworks
• Includes wine, beer, and soft drinks all night
• Boards at 7:30 PM from Tower Pier

Thames Lates Party Cruise (£199 per person):

• More casual vibe with canapés and bowl food
• DJ playing current hits
• Open bar until midnight
• Amazing photo opportunities with London landmarks
• Perfect if you want to actually dance!

Bateaux London's Glass Room Experience (£399 per person):

• The most luxurious option on the river
• Seven-course fine dining menu
• Live jazz band
• Premium champagne at midnight
• The boat's glass roof gives incredible views

Winter Wonderland NYE: Your Pre-Midnight Party Spot

Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland is staying open extra late on New Year's Eve (until 1 AM!), and they're pulling out all the stops for their NYE celebration. Here's what's new for 2024:

The brand new "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" Ice Kingdom is absolutely mind-blowing. We're talking:

• 500 tonnes of ice sculptures
• Interactive photo moments
• A slide made entirely of ice
• Temperature controlled at -10°C (bring gloves!)
• Special NYE ticket includes hot chocolate and a mince pie

Beyond the Ice Kingdom, you've got:

• The UK's largest outdoor ice rink (book night sessions for magical lighting)
• Over 100 rides and attractions
• Traditional German Christmas market stalls
• Special NYE performances at Zippos Circus
• The Giant Wheel with heated pods for firework viewing

Clubbing and Party Venues: Where to Dance into 2025

London's club scene comes alive on New Year's Eve with events across the city. Here's a detailed breakdown of the biggest parties:

Studio 338's LoveJuice NYE Party

• Doors open: 8:00 PM - 6:00 AM
• Three rooms of music featuring house and techno
• Early bird tickets: £25 (available until November)
• Standard tickets: £40
• VIP packages: £60 (includes fast track entry and exclusive bar access)
• Location: Greenwich Peninsula

The Archives DnB Allstars Special

• Running time: 9:00 PM - 7:00 AM
• Lineup includes Andy C, Chase & Status, and Shy FX
• Standard entry: £35
• Last entry: 11:00 PM
• Located near Hackney Central station

B London Chelsea NYE Celebration

• Time: 7:00 PM - 4:00 AM
• Smart dress code enforced
• Champagne reception included with all tickets
• Standard entry: £40
• VIP tables available from £300
• Advance booking essential

The Natural History Museum Silent Disco A unique option for those seeking something different:

• Three DJ channels playing different genres
• Ticket includes welcome drink and museum access
• Special exhibitions open until 10:00 PM
• Time slots: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM or 10:30 PM - 1:00 AM
• Standard tickets: £45

Family-Friendly Celebrations

Finding age-appropriate NYE entertainment can be challenging, but London offers several family options that cater to different age groups.

Disney On Ice at The O2

• Two shows on December 31st: 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM
• Featuring characters from Frozen, Moana, and Encanto
• Running time: 2 hours including interval
• Ticket prices: £25-£75
• Meet and greet packages available
• Suitable for all ages

Ministry of Sound's Raver Tots

• Time: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
• Features kid-friendly versions of dance classics
• Activities include:
  • Face painting
  • Bubble machines
  • Soft play area
  • Dance competitions
• Adult and child ticket combos from £25
• Suitable for ages 0-8

Bach to Baby NYE Special

• Classical concert designed for families
• Morning performance: 10:30 AM
• Afternoon performance: 2:00 PM
• Venue: St Paul's Covent Garden
• Children under 1 go free
• Adult tickets: £15

London Dining NYE

Sky Garden stands as one of London's most sought-after NYE dining destinations, offering several distinct experiences:

Fenchurch Restaurant

• Six-course tasting menu: £395 per person
• Includes champagne reception
• Window tables available (supplementary charge)
• Booking times between 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
• Dress code: Formal

Darwin Brasserie

• Four-course menu: £295 per person
• More relaxed atmosphere
• Includes entrance to Sky Garden's NYE party
• Two sittings: 5:30 PM or 8:30 PM

Other Notable Dining Options:

Aqua Shard

• Five-course menu with champagne
• Clear views of fireworks
• £395 per person
• Early sitting (6:00 PM) or late sitting (8:30 PM)
• Smart formal dress code

Duck & Waffle

• 24-hour venue with spectacular views
• Special NYE tasting menu: £295
• Includes wine pairing
• Booking essential (opens September 2024)

Getting Around London on NYE

Planning your journey is essential for a stress-free New Year's Eve celebration in London. Here's what to consider:

Public Transport

• TfL typically offers special NYE services
• Most Underground lines run later than usual
• Night buses operate throughout the night
• Check the TfL website closer to the date for confirmed timings and routes

Parking Finding parking in central London on New Year's Eve can be challenging. Consider:

• Booking a guaranteed spot through Stashbee
• Checking your chosen venue for parking facilities
• Using park and ride facilities on the outskirts

Pro tip: Always check the official TfL website for the most up-to-date travel information, as service times and arrangements can change.

Making the Most of Your NYE: Essential Tips

Timing Your Evening

• Most ticketed events have strict entry times
• Popular viewing spots fill up early
• Allow extra time for security checks
• Factor in possible travel delays

What to Bring

• Fully charged phone and portable charger
• Comfortable shoes for walking and standing
• Warm, waterproof clothing (London weather can be unpredictable!)
• Cash for smaller vendors
• Your tickets - downloaded and printed where possible

Food and Drink

• Many venues don't allow outside food or drinks
• Water bottles are usually permitted (check specific venues)
• Consider eating before heading to crowded areas
• Book restaurants well in advance if dining out

Safety and Comfort

• Set a meeting point with your group
• Keep valuables secure and close
• Know your venue's re-entry policy
• Save important contact numbers
• Download offline maps for areas with poor signal

Beyond the Fireworks: Alternative NYE Ideas

For those seeking something different, London offers plenty of unique ways to welcome 2025:

Kew Gardens' Winter Trail

• Extended opening until 9:00 PM
• Illuminated installations throughout the gardens
• Hot chocolate stations along the route
• Limited capacity for a quieter experience
• Adult tickets from £21.50

New Year's Eve Comedy

• The Comedy Store's NYE Special
• Two shows: 6:00 PM and 9:30 PM
• Five comedians per show
• Includes midnight countdown
• Tickets from £50

Candlelight Concerts

• Various London venues
• Classical music by candlelight
• Programs featuring movie soundtracks and classical favorites
• Early evening performances available
• Perfect for a sophisticated celebration

Start 2025 Right: New Year's Day in London

The celebrations don't stop at midnight. Here's what's happening on January 1st:

London's New Year's Day Parade

• Starts: 12:00 PM
• Route: Piccadilly to Parliament Square
• Free to watch
• Features over 10,000 performers
• Viewing spots available along the entire route

Recovery Brunches Many restaurants offer special New Year's Day brunch menus. Popular options include:

• The Wolseley
• Duck & Waffle
• Dishoom
• Sketch
• The Ivy Collection restaurants

Booking is essential for New Year's Day dining - most venues open bookings 2-3 months in advance.

Outdoor Activities

• Royal Parks remain open
• Winter Wonderland continues
• Southbank Centre Winter Light exhibition
• Ice skating at Somerset House