New Year’s Eve Fireworks in London: Everything You Need to Know

The 2026 event is “set to be a night of unmissable moments, and it is one of the biggest celebrations of its kind in the world”, according to Ticketmaster. Sadiq Khan once said of London’s celebrations: “Every year I’m completely astonished by how utterly mesmerising it is. There’s no doubt that these are the best NYE fireworks in the world”

With the final round of tickets dropping next week, here’s everything you need to know about the iconic event: Tickets are usually in high demand and will often sell out quickly. However, there are a limited amount currently available on Ticketmaster.

Ticket Information

The London Assembly has revealed that another — and final — batch of tickets will go on sale on November 24 at 12pm. Only those with tickets bought from Ticketmaster can attend, so don’t head down and expect to pick up some from a tout, as reselling is strictly prohibited.

Refunds aren’t available, but if you can no longer attend the event, you can resell your ticket at face value through the Ticketmaster Fan-to-Fan Resale platform. This year, tickets cost between £20 and £55, depending on whether you opt for a “Category A Viewing Area” or “Category B Viewing Area”, and whether you live in a London postcode.

If you live in a London postcode, you’ll get a £20 discount on every ticket booked. Postcode verification takes place at the purchasing stage of the booking and will be based on the billing address attached to the card used to book. Proof of address may be required on the night too. All prices include VAT. There will also be a small booking fee which goes to the ticketing provider.

Event Details

Things kick off at 8pm on December 31 and finish at half midnight, January 1; entrance to the viewing areas, however, closes at 10.30pm. You’ll need to bring the tickets with you and ID may be required, too.

Those with tickets can head to one of the six viewing areas, designated by colour. These are Blue, Red, Pink, Green and White, as well as Orange, which is the accessible viewing area on the Albert Embankment, riverside of St. Thomas’ Hospital.

From mid-afternoon into the early evening, these areas become extremely busy and moving between areas is impossible. In short, plan carefully where to go. Additionally, you won’t be allowed to use Westminster Bridge, the Golden Jubilee Footbridge or Waterloo Bridge before or after the event, so factor this into your plans.

Alternative Viewing Spots

Tickets are likely to sell out fast, but if you don’t get a ticket, there are plenty of spots to watch the fireworks around the capital. You can consider watching from other locations along the Thames, such as the South Bank, or from one of the many parks and gardens in London.

Some popular alternative spots include Primrose Hill, Hampstead Heath, and Alexandra Palace. Keep in mind that these areas may get crowded, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to secure a good spot.

Conclusion

The New Year’s Eve fireworks in London are an unforgettable experience, and with the right planning, you can make the most of this iconic event. Whether you’re watching from a designated viewing area or from a spot along the Thames, the fireworks are sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When do tickets go on sale?

A: The final batch of tickets will go on sale on November 24 at 12pm.

Q: Can I buy tickets from a tout?

A: No, reselling is strictly prohibited, and only tickets bought from Ticketmaster are valid.

Q: Can I get a refund if I can no longer attend?

A: Refunds aren’t available, but you can resell your ticket at face value through the Ticketmaster Fan-to-Fan Resale platform.

Q: How much do tickets cost?

A: Tickets cost between £20 and £55, depending on the viewing area and whether you live in a London postcode.

Q: What time do the fireworks start and finish?

A: The fireworks start at 8pm on December 31 and finish at half midnight, January 1.

Q: Can I watch the fireworks from anywhere in London?

A: While there are designated viewing areas, you can also watch the fireworks from other locations along the Thames or from parks and gardens in London.