London’s annual firework display is back after a two-year hiatus.
(Picture: Getty Images)How has it happened? It’s nearly the end of 2022, which means only one thing: looking forward to the 2023 New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Londoners have long been able to enjoy the South Bank’s annual firework display, and after a two-year hiatus due to Covid, they’re finally back.
Whether you intend to join the crowds in central London or plan to watch for free from a London park, (or, if you want to watch from the comfort of your own home), find out below how you can get involved with the capital’s New Year’s Eve firework display.
Jacob Wedderburn-Day, CEO at Stasher, has shared his top tips for watching the fireworks this year.
Where are London’s New Year’s Eve fireworks?
The fireworks will be held by the London Eye on the South Bank of the River Thames.
Viewing access will stretch from Victoria Embankment to Westminster Bridge and Waterloo Bridge. An accessible viewing area will be on Albert Embankment.
The event starts at 8pm on New Year’s Eve (December 31) and finishes at 12.30am on New Year’s Day (January 1). Tickets must be bought in advance and cost £15.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I’m incredibly excited that Londoners and visitors to our capital can once again unite on the banks of the Thames to welcome in the new year by watching our world-famous fireworks.
“We are building a better London for everyone and New Year’s Eve is one of the biggest nights of the year for our hospitality industry with our fireworks providing an incredible moment to send a message of love and celebration to the world.
“This year will be our best ever and with the first batch of tickets selling out in just over five hours, I urge anyone wanting to attend to book as early as possible.”
Where to watch the fireworks in London?
Cannon Street
If you’re keen to be as close as possible to the action, but you’re not keen on the £15 price tag, then Cannon Street is situated just outside of the ticketed zone between St Paul’s Cathedral, Mansion House, and Bank.
Nearest tube station: Cannon Street
Primrose Hill
One of the highest points in London, Primrose Hill, located on the north side of Regent’s Park with a great view of Central London offers wonderful views of the display - be sure to walk to the very top for the best viewings.
Nearest tube station: Chalk Farm
Bridges in Central London
The Millenium Bridge and Southwark Bridge offer great viewing, as well as Vauxhall Bridge and Lambeth Bridge, which aren’t as close, but also offer great views of the action.
Nearest tube stations: Blackfriars, Southwark, Vauxhall
Greenwich Park
One of the biggest parks in South London, with stunning views. You’ll be able to see the official fireworks display, as well as many others taking place across London.
Nearest tube station: Greenwich
Alexandra Palace
If you’re a North Londoner, then this might be your ideal spot as it’ll be less crowded, but it still offers expansive views across London.
Nearest tube station: Wood Green
Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath is another well-known viewing spot in North London, specifically on Parliament Hill. It is a spacious area and worth being further away for the views.
Nearest tube station: Hampstead or Belsize Park
How to watch the London fireworks on TV?
Tune in to BBC One at 11.30pm and see Eurovision legend Sam Ryder joined by some of music’s biggest stars putting on a spectacular New Year's Eve party heading to midnight.
After Sam and his all-star guests rock into the New Year, the party will continue after the fireworks are broadcast.
