Things to Do in London on NYE
From dazzling fireworks to world-class shows, London offers endless options to make your New Year’s Eve unforgettable. Here’s our guide to the top activities for welcoming 2026.
Firework Viewing Spots
London’s skyline comes alive at midnight with breathtaking fireworks. Choose from official ticketed zones, river cruises, rooftop bars, or scenic free spots.
Official Ticketed Areas (Thames Embankment)
Get a front-row seat for London’s iconic fireworks display, with the London Eye lit up and the river reflecting bursts of colour. Ticketed zones offer a safe and organised environment, plus the chance to celebrate with thousands of fellow revellers.
- Location: River Thames, Big Ben & Houses of Parliament
- From St Giles London: 22 mins by transport
- Price: £20–£55 per person + booking fee
- Website: Sign up for tickets
Thames Cruise Parties
Glide along the Thames while enjoying a glamorous evening on board. These cruises combine fine dining, cocktails, and live entertainment with unrivalled views of the fireworks and London’s illuminated landmarks. A truly memorable way to ring in the New Year.
- Location: Westminster Millennium Pier
- From St Giles London: 25 mins by Tube
- Price: From £329
- Website: NYE Cruise Party
Rooftop Bars – Madison & Oblix
Celebrate New Year’s Eve above the city streets with breathtaking panoramic views. Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, lively music, and a vibrant party atmosphere while watching London’s fireworks from an elevated perspective. Madison offers a stylish open-air terrace overlooking Trafalgar Square, while Oblix, located at The Shard, provides a glamorous setting with sweeping skyline views for a truly unforgettable night.
- Locations: Madison (Trafalgar Square), Oblix (The Shard)
- From St Giles London: ~15–25 mins by Tube
- Websites: Madison Tickets | Oblix Tickets
Free Firework Viewing Spots
For a more relaxed experience, these free locations provide beautiful, unobstructed views of the fireworks. Ideal for photography enthusiasts or groups wanting a quieter celebration away from the crowds.
- Date: 31 Dec 2025
- Locations: Lambeth Bridge, Vauxhall Bridge, Parliament Hill, Alexandra Palace
- From St Giles London: 20–45 mins by transport
- Website: Free Fireworks Info
©St Mary Le Strand
NYE Shows & Concerts
Immerse yourself in London’s culture with music and performances for every taste.
St Mary Le Strand:
Experience timeless classical music in a historic setting. Candlelit concerts create an intimate and enchanting atmosphere, perfect for music lovers seeking a cultural start to the new year.
- Date: 31 Dec 2025
- Location: Strand, London WC2R 1ES
- From St Giles London: 20 mins by Tube or Bus
- Price: Tickets from £32.40–£51.84 (subject to availability)
- Website: Tickets & Info
Somerset House
A London institution for New Year’s celebrations. Skate on the iconic ice rink, enjoy live music and DJ performances, and soak in theatrical performances, all while surrounded by the grand architecture of Somerset House. Perfect for families and friends alike.
- Location: Strand, London WC2R 1LA
- From St Giles London: 20 mins by Tube or Bus
- Price: Tickets from £60 + £2.95 one-off booking fee per order
- Website: Somerest House NYE
Southbank Centre
On New Year’s Eve, the Southbank Centre is only open to guests with a restaurant booking. Enjoy festive meals, live music, and riverside views while celebrating 2026. Plan transport in advance, as central London will be busy.
- Date: 31 Dec 2025
- Location: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX
- From St Giles London: 15 mins by Tube
- Website: Southbank Centre NYE
©DesignMyNight
Nightlife & Parties
Celebrate with energy and style at some of London’s hottest NYE parties.
12th Knot
A high-energy party featuring live entertainment, expertly crafted cocktails, and stunning views of the city skyline. The perfect place for those looking to dance into the New Year with style and glamour.
- Date: 31 Dec 2025
- Location: 20 Upper Ground, London SE1 9PD
- From St Giles London: 25 mins by Tube
- Price: From £100
- Website: 12th Knot Tickets
Simmons
A retro-themed, bottomless celebration with live DJs spinning 80s, R&B, and hip-hop classics. Ideal for groups of friends looking for a casual yet vibrant atmosphere.
- Date: 31 Dec 2025
- Location: Various
- Price: Tickets from £48.60 – £64.80
- Website: Simmons NYE
The Tattershall Castle
Celebrate on a floating venue with spectacular fireworks, canapés, live entertainment, and DJs. Perfect for a festive and unique riverside experience.
- Location: Victoria Embankment, London SW1A 2HR
- From St Giles London: 20 – 30 by Tube or Bus
- Price: Prices are released closer to the event. Sign up with your email on the website to be notified as soon as tickets become available.
- Website: The Tattershall Castle NYE
©DesignMyNight
Old Compton Brasserie
Industrial-inspired interiors with drag performances, DJs, and a vibrant party vibe to welcome 2026 in style.
- Date: 31st Dec 2025
- Location: 36 – 38 Old Compton St, London W1D 4TT
- From St Giles London: 9 mins walk
- Price: First Sitting (6:00–7:30 pm): £85. Second Sitting (from 7:45 pm–2:30 am): £125
- Website: Old Compton Brasserie NYE
The Dickens Inn
Enjoy marina-side dining with live fireworks screening, festive drinks, and bottomless pizza from £65 per person. A fun, relaxed way to celebrate with friends or family.
- Date: 31st Dec 2025
- Location: Marble Quay, St Katharine’s Way, London, E1W 1UH
- From St Giles London: 37 mins by Tube
- Price: from £65 – £110
- Website: The Dickens Inn NYE
St Giles In-House Dining
Enjoy Italian cuisine at Cucina, 24-hour café options at VQ, or drinks and small plates at Hudson’s House & Bar – perfect for a cosy NYE celebration without leaving the hotel.
- Location: 12 Bedford Ave, London WC1B 3GH
- Website: St Giles Dining
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in the heart of London at St Giles London, where a prime central location and comfortable rooms make the perfect base for the festivities, with 20% off your stay using promo code NYCELEBRATION. For more information, visit our offers page.
