London New Year's Eve Guide

How to see the fireworks for free and much more!

Whether you want to celebrate the New Year in a massive nightclub, or prefer something more chilled, there are plenty of ways to experience it in London. The UK capital has some of the world’s biggest NYE celebrations, but it can take serious planning.

When Big Ben strikes midnight, London will launch the biggest fireworks display in Europe. Many people will pay for the privilege, but smart travellers can see it all for free and attend some of the biggest parties as well.

Here’s how to get the most out of New Year’s Eve in London – and where to spend the morning after.

Where to watch the London fireworks for free:

Image by Natesh Ramasamy (Flickr/Creative Commons)

London New Year’s Eve Fireworks is one of the most iconic celebrations in the world. This event is now ticketed and they go on sale on December 1st. You can get four tickets per person at £10 each – book here.

If you don’t have a ticket, but would still like to watch the fireworks, then here are a few tips on where to go for free.

St Paul’s Cathedral and Monument

Cannon Street (close to St Paul’s) and Monument are brilliant places to watch the fireworks without a ticket. Remember to get there early if you want a good spot though. You won't be only person hoping for an iconic way to see out the New Year.

London’s Bridges

Tower Bridge, Millennium Bridge, Vauxhall Bridge and Southwark Bridge are perfect for watching the fireworks, but remember they’re going to be popular spots so get there early if you want picture perfect views.

Primrose Hill and Hampstead Heath

Image by Michael Camilleri (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Head up to north London and enjoy some amazing views of the Thames on Primrose Hill (close to Camden) or Hampstead Heath. Or if you don’t mind travelling a little further out, then you can go to Alexandra Palace (Ally Pally) instead.

New Year’s Eve Parties

Image by Darren Johnson (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Find out which New Year clubs you can attend for £15 and under. If you’re on a budget and don’t want to spend a fortune on Dec 31st, then check out the parties below!

There’s a "Black and Gold ball" themed night at The Escapologist, near Covent Garden with a £15 entry fee. Dig out your finery and join a crazy night where James Bond meets Victorian Gentleman's private party club. Expect debauchery, delicious cocktails and amazing tunes (80's Music, Hip Hop/RnB, Party Mash Up, Retro). There's also a prize giveaway for best fancy dress, so dress to the nines!

Otherwise you can go to the West End where you can expect great indie/alternative fun at The Social. The Entry fee is just £10 and you will have the opportunity to listen to great music with a band called Creatures (“Picture a band dreamt up by Wes Anderson. A band of 70s looking cowboys straight out of Westworld armed with psychedelic guitar riffs and all the hair” Northern Exposure ) and a special Rough Trade DJ set.

New Year’s Day 2018

Image by Garry Knight (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Starting at 12pm in Piccadilly and finishing more and less at 3.30pm in Parliament Square, the New Year’s Day parade is a sobering way to start the year. There will be thousands of artists and revellers taking part making it a colourful and exciting way to see in the first day of 2018.

Need somewhere cheap to stay?

Check out our latest London hostel deals and see in 2018 without breaking the bank. We have a spectacular range of rooms all over the city. Check out The Dictionary in Shoreditch if you want a boutique bunk in East London or if you prefer something a little more genteel, then stay at Saint James Backpackers and sleep close to Hyde Park.

Book your holiday today and enjoy New Year in London for under £25 per night:

*Header image by Chris Chabot (Flickr/Creative Commons)