On December 31, 2024, London will welcome the New Year with a spectacular display of lights and fireworks on the Thames. The epicenter of the celebration is between Big Ben, whose 12 solemn chimes will mark midnight, and The Shard, with its light display counting down the seconds to the New Year. In between is the London Eye, from which the fireworks will be launched. The excitement, needless to say, will be immense, mirroring the hope and anticipation for a wonderful 2025!
The New Year's Eve fireworks show on the Thames features over 12,000 fireworks launched from the foot of the London Eye and from rafts on the Thames at midnight. The fireworks light up the area around the Thames for about twenty minutes, making it a spectacular sight. For several years now, the fireworks show has been a ticketed event with limited entry (100,000 spectators). If you want to enjoy the beautiful fireworks, you have three options:
- Buy tickets to access the paid area
- Book a New Year's Eve Cruise
- Watch from a free, more distant area
New Year's Eve London Tickets
The first batch of 50,000 tickets for London's spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks show is already sold out, but the second batch will go on sale in early December, always on the official website www.london.gov.uk. Visit our page again to stay updated!
Last year, the price was £20 per person, but this year, prices have been adjusted to enhance safety and crowd management in the viewing areas, ensuring all attendees can enjoy the celebration in comfort and safety.
There are six official viewing areas along the River Thames: Blue, Red, Pink, Green, White, and Orange (the accessible viewing area). Ticket prices are as follows:
- Blue, Pink, and White Zones: £50 (£35 for London residents)
- Red, Green, and Orange (accessible) Zones: £35 (£20 for London residents)
For more details on entry points and the nearest tube stations for accessing the paid areas, you can check the viewing area map. This map provides helpful information on the layout of the zones, making it easier to plan your arrival so you can access your designated area smoothly and on time. We recommend arriving early to pass through security checks and ensure access to your allocated area.
New Year’s Eve Cruises on the Thames
Spending New Year’s Eve on a Thames cruise offers a unique and enviable vantage point to fully enjoy the night of December 31st—arguably the best and most comfortable option. The various packages available allow you to choose between a New Year’s Eve dinner onboard or spending the evening dancing at the onboard disco while waiting for midnight. Before the clock strikes twelve, all boats will position near the London Eye, providing everyone with a perfect view of the fireworks display and an electric atmosphere. Cruise prices vary depending on the boat and the services included, with or without dinner. Seats are limited, and some cruises are already sold out, so don’t wait! Discover the New Year’s Eve Cruises in London still available and book your favorite today!
Free Viewing Areas to Watch London's NYE Fireworks
The best free spots to see the fireworks are the bridges near the London Eye, outside the ticketed area, but remember they will be very crowded:
- Lambeth Bridge and Vauxhall Bridge - These bridges, especially the first one, offer good views while being slightly farther from the city center.
- Millennium Bridge and Southwark Bridge - These bridges are not far from the epicenter of the celebrations but are behind a bend in the Thames, so the view is indirect.
Besides these bridges, there are other spots to watch the fireworks for free:
- Parliament Square - This area is very close to the London Eye, but some buildings slightly obstruct the view. However, these are impressive buildings like Big Ben or the grand Palace of Westminster, home to the Parliament. The skyline of these monuments will offer a great photo opportunity during the fireworks display.
- Trafalgar Square - This iconic central location offers a partial view of the fireworks display, but you will meet many festive people.
- Cannon Street - This central London location near the Monument is close to the action, though it will be very busy.
- Alexandra Palace - This venue in North London hosts its own impressive fireworks display that can be viewed alongside the city's display.
- Primrose Hill - This elevated vantage point in North London provides an unobstructed panoramic view of the city's fireworks.
- Greenwich Park - The expansive park offers a regal setting to view the fireworks with the backdrop of the Royal Observatory.
Other Tips
- Arrival Time: Plan to arrive at your viewing area between 8:30 pm and 10:30 pm.
- Bridge Closures: Some bridges will be closed to traffic, so plan your route accordingly.
- Alternative Options: If you didn't get a ticket, you can watch the fireworks on TV or celebrate at one of London's many bars, restaurants, pubs, and clubs.
Travel Information
Central London is very busy on New Year's Eve: plan your transportation in advance, as some roads will be closed to traffic. Read the guide New Year's Eve Transport: How to Get Around London for more information.
