December 28th 2024.
As the year comes to a close, it's time to bundle up and prepare for the spectacular fireworks that light up the London skyline on New Year's Eve. This annual light show has become a beloved tradition, attracting thousands of people to the city in anticipation of the dazzling display. The official viewing areas, priced at £20 to £50 for the upcoming 2025 celebration, always sell out months in advance. But fear not, because there are plenty of free spots to catch a glimpse of the pyrotechnics and drones soaring up to 200m high.
Now, you may be wondering, where exactly can you watch the London fireworks for free? With over 100,000 people expected to attend, it's safe to say that there will be some crowds to contend with. However, if you arrive early enough, you can secure a prime viewing spot without spending a single penny. The bridges around London provide a great vantage point, but be warned that Millennium Bridge and Tower Bridge are not the best options due to the bend in the river and tall buildings obstructing the view. Instead, head to Southwark Bridge, Lambeth Bridge, or Vauxhall Bridge for a less crowded but still impressive show. You can also try your luck at Victoria Embankment, Waterloo Bridge, or Westminster Bridge, although the latter has a strict entry cut-off time of 8pm.
If you don't mind facing the crowds, the stretch between Cannon Street and Monument stations on the eastern side of the display offers a decent vantage point. Another option is to escape the city center and head north to Primrose Hill or Parliament Hill, both of which offer picturesque views of the fireworks from their elevated positions. For a slightly less hectic experience, try Greenwich Park, where the top of Point Hill provides a stunning backdrop for the show. And for those living in north London, Alexandra Palace is a good choice for a less crowded celebration.
As the excitement builds for the New Year's Eve fireworks, it's important to keep a few things in mind. Firstly, without a ticket, you won't be able to enter the official event. Secondly, the entire city will be bustling with activity, so certain areas may be closed off if they become too crowded. Be sure to plan your journey ahead of time, as some Tube stations may be exit-only and trains may not stop at certain stations after a certain time. Also, note that Tube travel is not free this year as it has been in the past.
As for the weather, it's always best to be prepared for chilly temperatures and the possibility of rain. Make sure to dress warmly, with a hooded jacket being the ideal choice over an umbrella in a crowded setting. It's also a good idea to pack lightly and only bring what you need, especially if you plan on watching the fireworks from a busy location.
It's hard to believe that this article was first published on December 28, 2023. Time flies when you're having fun! Do you have any plans for New Year's Eve yet? Share your story by emailing us at email. And for some inspiration, check out The Slice's Top 10 London Restaurants of 2023 or find out which city in Europe was voted the best for celebrating New Year's Eve (hint: it's in the UK, but not London). Happy New Year!
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