Seasonal
New Year’s Eve in London
Fireworks, grand dinners and rooftop parties: how to see in the New Year in London, done well.
In short: our top picks are Aqua Shard, Oblix and Searcys at the Gherkin. 5 places in total, chosen on merit, with the full reasoning below.
New Year’s Eve in London can be magical or a cold scrum, and the difference is in the planning. Between the riverside fireworks, grand hotel dinners and rooftop parties, there is a way to see in the year that suits you. These are the best ways to spend New Year’s Eve in London, from the spectacular to the civilised.
| Place | Area | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Aqua Shard | London Bridge | ££££ |
| Oblix | London Bridge | ££££ |
| Searcys at the Gherkin | The City | ££££ |
| The View from The Shard | London Bridge | £££ |
| Coppa Club Tower Bridge | Tower Hill | £££ |
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Editor’s choice
Aqua Shard
Why we pick itNew Year dinner on level 31 with the fireworks at your feet; book the big night months ahead.
Worth knowingThe cooking does not match the setting and portions read small for the price; without a window table booked well ahead, the point of coming is lost.
-
Oblix
Why we pick itA high-up grill and terrace in The Shard; one of the best skyline spots to see in the year.
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Searcys at the Gherkin
Why we pick itDining under the dome at the top of the Gherkin; a glamorous, high-altitude New Year's Eve.
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The View from The Shard
Why we pick itThe highest viewpoint in the city; a special-ticket New Year vantage above the whole skyline.
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Coppa Club Tower Bridge
Why we pick itRiverside igloos with views of the fireworks.
Before you book
The big-ticket dinners and parties sell out months ahead, so book early. If you want the fireworks, you need a ticket for the official viewing areas; otherwise pick a rooftop or a restaurant with a view. And plan your way home in advance; transport is the part everyone forgets.
Common questions
What are the top picks in this guide?
Aqua Shard is our editor's choice: New Year dinner on level 31 with the fireworks at your feet; book the big night months ahead. Aqua Shard, Oblix and Searcys at the Gherkin lead the guide, with 5 places in total, all chosen on merit.
How does Lamplit London choose its recommendations?
Every place is chosen on merit, after first-hand visits where possible, with no pay-for-placement. Read our full method at https://www.lamplitlondon.com/how-we-choose/.
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