New Year's Eve in London

The short answer

For New Year's Eve in London, you need a ticket to see the official fireworks from the viewing areas near the London Eye, and the alternative is to book a restaurant, party or river cruise well in advance. The night falls on a Thursday in 2026, and the good options start selling out from the autumn.

How the fireworks work

The Mayor of London's event runs along the Thames, with entry to the viewing areas from the evening of 31 December. Tickets are sold through Ticketmaster only, and you cannot enter the areas without one. The first batch went on sale on 23 October 2026, and a second batch was still to be dated when this guide was written, so keep an eye on the official london.gov.uk page.

You cannot move between viewing areas on the night, and the lead booker may be asked for photo ID. Westminster, Golden Jubilee, Lambeth, Blackfriars and Waterloo bridges are not available to the public around the event, and stations get very busy afterwards. Plan which side of the river you need to be on, and check Transport for London for your route home.

Other ways to see in the New Year

Thames dining operators such as City Cruises and Bateaux London often run special evening sailings, and hotels and restaurants offer set menus with a glass of something at midnight. Clubs and themed bars run ticketed parties too. Cahoots in Soho, for example, has been advertising a New Year's Eve party. Expect higher prices than a normal night, and read the terms about deposits and end times.

Our romantic restaurants guide is a good place to start if dinner appeals. Be realistic about the view from a bar, since a rooftop may not face the fireworks, so ask before you book.

Getting home

Taxis and ride-hailing can be slow and expensive just after midnight, so walking away from the crowds first usually helps. If you would like someone with you for the evening, you can browse our ladies and call us with her name and a time.