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London has world-class fireworks and parties going off throughout New Year’s Eve. So by the time Big Ben strikes midnight, the capital’s streets will be packed with people revelling in the atmosphere.
Things to do in London for New Year’s Eve 2016
NYE Fireworks 2014 (c) Greater London Authority
Where to watch the London fireworks for free
There’s still some tickets for 2016, and there’s usually a release of returned tickets in December. You can get four tickets per person at £10 each – book here.
But if you’ve left your plans to the last minute, and still want to get a feel for the fireworks then there are a few vantage points.
The City
The Cannon Street (next door to St Paul’s) and Monument areas of the city are a good bet. Especially if you want to get close to the fireworks but don’t actually have a ticket. Visit the Transport for London website before you leave home, as the tube stations may close earlier than normal to cope with the numbers of people.
These two spots may be the worst kept secret, so you might want to think about getting their early and bagging an area.
Bridges
Vauxhall Bridge, Tower Bridge, Southwark Bridge and Millennium Bridge are all outside the ticketed area and have the best river views. Again, these are likely to prove popular.
Head up high
The famous fireworks (c) Alexandra Palace
Does Michelin-star dining and spectacular views sound like your idea of a new year celebration? Then Galvin at Windows in the London Hilton, Park Lane, is a high-end option.
If you want something a bit more cheap and cheerful, then the hills around London offer a decent vantage point to see the fireworks. In north London head to either Hampstead Heath or Primrose Hill. Or if you don’t mind being further out, Alexandra Palace.
For those who managed to get tickets for the London NYE 2016 Fireworks, you can find out all the information about getting to the event and timings on that page.
New Year’s Eve parties
There seems to be a Gatsby-themed glitz and glamour-themed edge to this years New Year’s Eve. Expect some champagne-fuelled 1920s excitement at Steam & Rye and Bocconcino Mayfair.
The New Years Eve World Countdown Party at Scarlet’s Bar, just off Leicester Square, will run until 3am.
If your plans have gone awry or you’re suddenly struck with fear of missing out, you can find out the latest ticket prices and availability for parties, club nights and gigs at Design by Night.
New Year’s Day 2016
New Year’s Day Parade
New Year’s Day parade
Now in its 30th year, the famous New Year’s Day parade takes place whatever the weather. Starting at midday in Piccadilly (junction with Berkeley Street) and finishing at 3.30pm in Parliament Square, it’s become a great way to see in the first day of 2016.
There are more than 8,500 people taking part, from cheerleaders to marching bands. Many of the colourful performers raise money for charity along the way. Click here for information on the map route and how to get there in plenty of time to see all the action.
The Southbank Centre also likes to spring into the New Year with gusto, so if you can summon up the energy, join in with the Ceilidh Liberation Front’s New Year’s Startup. This free live music event runs from 1pm until 5pm in the Clore Ballroom. Don’t worry if you don’t know the steps, someone will show you the right way to go.
Need a place to stay?
Check out our latest London hotel deals and see in the New Year in comfort and style.
However if you want to escape the capital, then these are some enticing New Year city breaks.
We’ve also put a guide to the best places to stay in Edinburgh for New Year if you fancy celebrating Hogmanay north of the border.
The post The London New Year’s Eve Guide 2016 appeared first on lastminute.com Blog.
Source: lastminute.com