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New Year's Eve in London
New Year Celebrations in London

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Oct 28 2009

Like everywhere else in the world, we love to celebrate New Year's Eve in London. The first thing you want to do is book a central London hotel – try Superbreak.com as they have some great festive packages.

Trafalgar Square used to be the focal point for New Year's Eve celebrations but there is nothing happening there this year.

Fireworks Display

The big event for New Year's Eve 2009 is a free fireworks display at the London Eye on the South Bank. The display will start after Big Ben chimes midnight and will last for 15 minutes. Its popularity means it gets very crowded and it will not be possible to enter the viewing area once capacity has been reached. The best spots to watch the fireworks are from Westminster Bridge and the north embankment of the River Thames, opposite the London Eye, but they will be visible from across central London, as well as being broadcast live on BBC1.

Ministry of Sound at The 02

The Ministry of Sound party at The O2 is set to be one of the biggest New Year's Eve parties in Europe.

Clubs and Bars

As you would expect, tickets for London clubs are more expensive on New Year's Eve. Also be aware pubs often charge an entrance fee to try and control the numbers. It is best to plan ahead and get tickets in advance. London Groove have 3 major parties across town this year, as do the Top 10 London Nightclubs.

Some of the best nightclubs in London include:

River Cruises

A luxury river cruise along the River Thames can be a romantic way to bring in the new year. Most boats plan to moor in sight of the London Eye fireworks at midnight so you will get the best view.

Try these cruise companies:

Dining

Iconic riverside restaurant in London Bridge Le Pont de La Tour is offering a Gala Dinner on New Years Eve – 5 courses followed by a Thames Cruise to watch the fireworks at 11.30pm and then returning to the restaurant for the live band and dancing (£150 per head).
Another restaurant with stunning Thames views and the chance to see the fireworks is Skylon - they're hosting a champagne and canapé reception and a three course gala dinner together with live band into the small hours, priced at £165.
The Blue Elephant in Fulham is a luxury Thai restaurant offering dinner, traditional Thai dance, music and dancing for £70 each. At midnight greet the New Year with a glass of chilled champagne.
Try a medieval banquet in St. Katherine's Dock, E1 where you will be treated to a five-course buffet with Champagne, and unlimited beer and wine throughout dinner, plus live entertainment and a late-night disco.
Las Iguanas at Southbank Centre is offering a South American alternative to turkey and stuffing and tickets to their New Year's Eve party are selling fast.
Min Jiang have a Chinese Banquet (seated as opposed to a buffet) for £150 per head guests will receive a glass of Champagne on arrival as well as a glass at Midnight. There will be a harpist playing during dinner and guests will be invited to continue the party in the Palace suite where there will be live music and dancing until 2am.
Acclaimed London restaurant Galvin at Windows are offering a luxurious evening of entertainment. Guests can celebrate with champagne, canapés and a five course menu created by Chef Patron Chris Galvin. Delights are to include Salad of Scottish lobster and Truffled Cotswold white chicken with caramelized winter vegetables. The evening will be complimented by live music from the renowned Rolan Perrin's Blue Planet Orchestra.
Knightsbridge fish restaurant One-O-One also has a feast on offer - a six course meal for £99, including Organic Salmon Confit with Crispy Braised Pork Belly, Black Truffle Potato Mousseline, Onzen Quail Egg, Jus Perigourdine and Roasted Chestnut Cappuccino with Scallop Brochette and Joselito Chorizo, Ham Crumble.
Bluebird in Chelsea has turned their forecourt area into a winter wonderland with a 20ft Christmas tree, a winter chalet offering mulled wine and a selection of fondues (for adults and children!) and also a rotisserie offering roast sandwiches to keep everyone warm! There are lots of heaters to keep everyone warm and rugs too.
(Note: The wonderland will be in place until 15 February 2009 with the emphasis changing to slightly lighter dishes in January and romantic sharing ideas for February.)

Ice Skating

There are a few ice skating options for New Year's Eve 2009:

Located on the east lawn of the Natural History Museum in South Kensington, and now in its fifth year, the Natural History Museum Ice Rink has a new 1050-square-meter rink, plus a Cafe Bar and fairground carousel. Open till 1am on 31 December 2009.

2009: Somerset House Ice Rink is open 10am-8pm (last session starts at 18.45) so it could make a great way to start your evening celebrations.

Bowling

(2008 details here, 2009 to be confirmed)
All Star Lanes in Brick Lane is offering a 3 course dinner, bowling and all you can drink of house wine and beer for just £65. There will be DJs spinning tracks from the last five decades.
See Bowling in London.

Viennese New Years Gala

The Barbican has had this tradition for over 25 years. They invite you to enjoy an evening of family favorites from the Strauss family and friends. Find out more...

Casino Etrange: Part II

Over 270 people welcomed in 2009 with an evening of fun and games at the belowzero Moulin Rouge-inspired Parisienne casino lounge. It's back again this year along with funky DJs. More details...

Fetish Ball

(2008 details here, 2009 to be confirmed)
If you fancy breaking all your resolutions immediately, head on down to the Torture Garden New Year's Eve Ball – the largest fetish ball in Europe catering for all your fantasies (private rooms available).