There’s something magical about the sight of fireworks bursting against the dark night sky, and on New Year’s Eve they feel extra special. Each explosion feels like a glittering ‘goodbye’ to the previous year and a ‘hello’ to the new era on the horizon. They’re a sight that you’ll spot across the city on New Year’s Eve as parties are soundtracked by pops, bangs and snaps as midnight arrive.
Of course, the biggest and most famous New Year’s Eve fireworks are the official ones laid on by the mayor. Every year, they rival some of the world’s best displays, sending sparks flying up and down the banks of the Thames. But £20 tickets to watch them from one of the six official viewing areas tend to vanish faster than a shoddily lit Catherine Wheel, so if you didn’t manage to bag one this year, we have you covered. Read on for some handy suggestions on how to get your firework fix as you say goodbye 2025, and hello 2026. Whether you want to watch the explosions from fancy restaurants, a rooftop bars, or brave a cold hilly park, here’s where you can find the best views in the city.
The official show starts at 8pm, but the actual fireworks aren’t launched until midnight. They’ll rocket up to 200 metres into the sky from their spot on Southbank, right next to the London Eye.
Can’t make it into town? No problem. The mayor’s New Year’s Eve fireworks are shown on telly each year: just tune into BBC One at midnight to get your fix.
Recommended: here are more fab ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in London
With panoramic views over central London, Primrose Hill is a gorgeous place to watch the night sky erupt with fireworks. Wrap up warm, wear shoes you don't mind getting covered and mud, and bring a Thermos of mulled wine to see in 2024 in cosy style.
Thanks to its lofty location, Alexandra Palace is one of the best spots to get a view of the big display. Looking out over north London from a height, its altitude rewards casual walkers with spectacular views at the best of times, but on New Year’s Eve it’s really worth the steep climb to the top. Hang out in the park for the fireworks themselves, or make a beeline for nearby pubs like the Great Northern Railway Tavern or the Phoenix Bar and Kitchen.
Skyline views don’t have to come with sky high prices. Head to this affordable (£212 for a bottomless table of six) rooftop spot for views of the Shard's NYE countdown, plus fireworks erupting across the city. London Bridge Rooftop is fully covered and heated, with drinks and DJs laid on until 2am.
Spread across floors 69 to 72 of Western Europe’s tallest skyscraper, the View from the Shard provides the most magnificent 360° views of the city you can get. It’ll be making the most of its top spot with an all-inclusive New Year’s party featuring DJs Rui Da Silva and Jacob Husley, canapés, bowl food, sushi, unlimited English sparkling wine and, of course, views of the midnight fireworks. Tickets from £225.
This rooftop spot right next to St Paul’s cathedral will give you a lofty viewpoint to enjoy the New Year's Eve fireworks from. It's offering a three course early dinner menu followed by a party with entertainers and bubbles until 2am, but the full experience will cost you a whopping £349. Alternatively, turn up before 10pm for a £199 party-only experience, with a glass of bubbles and canapes included.
Get a glimpse of London’s NYE fireworks from the lofty heights of Battersea Power Station at luxurious Portuguese restaurant Joia. Opt for a £325 six-course tasting menu, or opt for the £50 rooftop experience, which includes a celebratory cocktail.
Owning the title of London's highest public garden, Sky Garden has greenery aplenty and 360-degree views of the Capital’s iconic skyline – so, it’s one of the best places to catch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve. Its ‘Fireworks & Feasts’ evening will feature live music, complimentary Moët and canapés. From £215pp.
Head to this Mayfair members’ club on New Year’s Eve for cocktails, a three-course à la carte dinner at Rucola, a cabaret with comedy, live music and acrobatics, before heading up to the rooftop for a glass of bubbles, live saxophone, and a front-row view of London’s fireworks. There’ll also be an after-party with DJs spinning until 3am.
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