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 2008 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.
Elton John at The 02
Elton John's New Year's Eve Party at The O2 is billed as the ultimate NYE party this year. The show is set to be the biggest of Elton's career to date!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 2008. The Natural History Museum Ice Rink is located on the east lawn of the prestigious Natural History Museum and now in its fourth year, the Natural History Museum Ice Rink has established itself as the place to be seen skating in the Capital. Open till 1am on NYE 2008.Somesert House Ice Rink is open in the daytime only but would make a great way to start your evening celebrations. Last session 5.30-6.30pm.
Bowling
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 30 years. They invite you to enjoy an evening of family favorites from the Strauss family and friends.Fetish Ball
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).New Year's Eve Travel
Free tube travel is available from 11.45pm till 4.30am. Use Transport for London's Journey Planner to plan your route by public transport.
Countdown
How long is there to go till London welcomes in the New Year? Keep an eye on this countdown site!
New Year's Day Parade
- All you need to know about London's New Year's Day Parade.
- See New Year's Day Parade Photos.
