How to do NYE in London right!
London is one of the most popular cities in the world. And on New Year’s eve, every year, it becomes even more popular. Thousands of people travel to London to see the world famous firework display at the London Eye. Understandably. I have done it, too.
However, this is an honest guide to NYE in London and how to get the best out of it - because maybe just maybe, the firework at the London Eye isn’t too high on my list of recommendations, and here is why:
1. If you really want to see the London Eye firework display properly, book and come EARLY. For NYE 2019, you can still book tickets today! Click the link above to see the options. However, once you have clicked through you will find out that the latest entry time available is around 3:00pm. This means you will have to be at the London Eye at 3:00pm and will have to spend money and exactly 8 hours there outside in the cold, until the firework starts. If it is your dream to see it up close, if you have gloves and a hat and a bit of cash to spend on mulled wine to keep you warm, then go ahead and enjoy every minute! :) Tickets cost £25 and upwards.
2. If you’re thinking about just watching the London Eye display from afar and not spend any money, then I’m sorry to let you know this will be very, very difficult. I have tried it. The good places in the city are all bridges, all hills like Primrose Hill or Greenwich, all free skyscrapers, or anywhere along the Thames, if you’re lucky. The problem however is that you and I are not the only people who will have this idea. All of these places, and I do mean everywhere, gets crowded from about 6/7pm onwards. Tube stations anywhere close to Embankment will shut down for entry and thousands of people will try to get a ‘good spot’ just like you. Unfortunately this means overcrowding, harsh police regulations in terms of where you can even go, and potentially that will also mean you miss the firework :( If you are willing to reserve a seat on, for instance, Primrose Hill from 4:00pm onwards then you will have a great night! :) But again, bring your gloves!
What I really recommend:
1. The splash the cash version - Book a table in one of London’s most exciting restaurants, bars or clubs with a view. Each year there are many options to do so. Madison or OXO Tower are just two places that guarantee you a first class view with first class service, often a welcome drink or canapés and, obviously, no crowds. You can check Design my Night for more inspiration. Now, please be aware that this is the splash the cash version. It will be totally worth it, but you will need to be ready to spend roughly £150 or more per person.
2. The budget version - And this is my favourite one and the one I recommend the most. Stay at home :) Buy a fondue set and invite all your friends over. Get some sparklers, buy ingredients for £10 a head and drink Prosecco! Honestly guys, this is by far the best way to celebrate NYE in London. If you are visiting, and you don’t have a ‘home’, how about doing something in your hotel room or in your airbnb? You can go to a pub, have a delicious NYE dinner and toast at midnight, how about that? :) You could also ‘just’ go out for dinner to your favourite restaurant and celebrate there? Most restaurants will offer somewhat of a NYE menu and close around 22:30pm to give you enough time to head back ‘home’ for midnight (you and them I might say). Last year I went to Mac and Wild and tried their NYE menu which was ootw - out of this world!
Enjoy! x Sandy