by The summary of 2023 may be depressingly informed on the summation of the previous year, punctuated as it has been by troubling conflict abroad, domestic political turmoil and a growing cost of living crisis. Déjà-2022?
Despite that, there’s a lot to be happy about – especially that we got to see Matt Hancock eat some testicles and yell at them, which, instead of more meaningful consequences, was somewhat satisfying.
But there is more. The UK now has two sites dedicated to temperate rainforest regeneration, the first beaver was born in the capital in 400 years, the NHS is trialling ambitious new treatments for hereditary cancer, and, at the time of writing, the Latvian government now the latest nation to legally recognize same-sex partnerships. It seems that despite the best efforts of almost everyone, there was a lot to be positive about this year.
As ever, New Year’s Eve is an opportunity to reflect on the past 12 months, knowing that 2024 could be even brighter. After a few inconsistent years, London is feeling busier than ever lately, with more tourists, more restaurants, more bars and more to please the hospitality industry. What better way to toast than with a glass of fizz with the sky alight?
Sadiq Khan said of the celebrations: “The best ticket in town is to ring in the new year in the heart of our capital while watching our spectacular firework display on the banks of the river Thames. Millions around the world will see our capital’s skyline light up in an extraordinary fireworks celebration that shows London is for everyone.”
The evening starts at 8pm on December 31 and is hosted by the London Eye alone; Tickets are £20 and the first release is currently sold out, with a second release planned soon (sign up for email updates on ticket releases here). As it’s impossible to attend without a ticket, we’ve detailed the spots around town from which you can watch the display, if you can’t get one. Here’s everything you need to know.
For those with tickets
Only people who have bought tickets from AXS can attend, so don’t go down and expect to pick some up from a tout, as reselling is strictly prohibited. Likewise, tickets are not transferable. Things start at 8pm on December 31 and end at half past midnight, January 1; However, access to the viewing areas closes at 10.30pm. You will need to bring the tickets with you and ID may also be required.
Those with tickets can go to one of the six viewing areas, designated by color. These are Blue, Red, Pink, Green and White, as well as Orange, which is the accessible viewing area on Albert Embankment, riverside at St Thomas’ Hospital. From mid-afternoon to early evening, these areas become extremely busy and it is impossible to move between areas. In short, plan carefully where to go. Additionally, there is a bridge crossing before and after the event, so please factor this into your plans.
Details of your viewing area will be on the ticket, but for more information, go to london.gov.uk.
For those without tickets
It’s impossible to get down to the south bank or any of the viewing areas without a ticket, so don’t try and the town center is quite crowded on New Year’s Eve. Instead, since they can’t charge for looking up at the sky (yet), it’s worth going a little further (literally, in some cases) to catch a glimpse of the main celebrations, as well as any other happening around town.
Remember, despite the frequent rumor to the contrary, there is travel no free on New Year’s Eve so be sure to plan the best way to get home after your night out (tubes will be running all night, except on the Waterloo and City line, and the District Line to Kensington Olympia). Expect some central London tube stops to be exit only and be aware that many of the roads will be closed or extremely busy; Ubers will probably charge through the roof.
For those willing to travel, here are some of the best places to head – don’t forget to pack a coat, maybe a brolly, as the weather is bad, more often than not.
Central
Cannon Street and the east side of it Monument Both sit next to the official ticketed viewing areas, so you’ll get most of the views without missing out – but expect both to be extremely busy, so head down early. It’s a similar story with the bridges. It is the most famous of these Tower Bridge, and the crowds gather there, but the view is average at best. There is much better Southwark Bridge and Millennium Bridgeboth closer and with much better views, but expect them to be rib-crushingly packed. Lambeth Bridge and Vauxhall Bridge, however, is only a little further away and perhaps the perfect medium, offering both small rooms to breathe and top views. If you are on any bridge, remember that you will be standing against the wind barreling over icy water, so prepare to be cold as well as wet. For Lambeth Bridge in particular, thanks to the recently completed Nine Elms development, it’s best to camp up for prime placement at around 5pm.
It’s not too late to book a New Year’s Eve meal in a skyscraper, either, which also offers a great view of the fireworks.
North
Parliament Hill and Hampstead Heath
Parliament Hill offers some beautiful views, even if the view is flat out. Still, it’s a beautiful place and there will be lots of people with their own fireworks too, so you’ll be spoiled for choice. Or think further afield on Hampstead Heath, which is its own sanctuary away from the city. Looking for a drink beforehand? The Bull & Last is possible, although it’s very food-oriented (and has a special NYE menu). The Roebuck is a solid choice, as is The Magdala and The Southampton Arms, a great place. In the opposite direction, try the Wells, which is a cracker (and, on another night, head back to eat upstairs in their excellent restaurant).
Nearest Tubes: Hampstead Tube, Hampstead Heath Overground
Savharkin Hill
At 76 meters high, the top of Primrose Hill offers unrivaled views across London, so even before the fireworks start, grab a hipflask and a bottle (or two) of champagne, and enjoy all of London lit up up. Get there early as it gets very busy. If you’re looking for somewhere to pop in beforehand, try the Queens, or try the Princess of Wales, which also gives her a good shout afterwards, as it’s usually open on New Years until 4am. The park closes at 1am and reopens at 6am.
Nearest Tubes: Chalk Farm (although trains will not run past 9.30pm), Camden, Swiss Cottage
Alexandra Palace
Ally Pally’s big hill is a steep incline, but the amazing skyline view that awaits at the top is worth the trip. Those who have been to Bonfire Night will know that there are a number of other firework displays that can also be seen from the top. There are plenty of pubs around, including the Great Northern Railway Tavern, the Phoenix Bar and Kitchen (in the park, near the palace itself), and the Mossy Well, which is a typical Spoon.
Nearest tube: Alexandra Palace
East
Greenwich Park
Double threat of sorts; the views from here put on the skyline of the whole city, but also much of east London, which means that visitors can catch any exhibitions from there, too. It also happens to be a beautiful park. Nearby is The Plume of Feathers, the oldest pub in the area; The Kings Arms is your basic Greene King boozer, but has a split garden if the rain isn’t too heavy.
Nearest tube: North Greenwich
South
Hilly Fields
It’s flat out, but Hilly Fields in Brockley is about 53 meters above sea level and has good views over London, especially the city. The main fireworks seem to be flat out, but it’s also a good place to catch a glimpse of the others around town. Be sure to take any litter with you as there is a field run taking place this morning. For a drink nearby, try The Talbot or The Ladywell Tavern.
Nearest tube: Get the train instead, and go to Ladyfield, Brockley or Crofton Park
