So, it’s that time of the year again when your WhatsApp group chats are buzzing with potential New Year’s plans, but nothing has been confirmed and you’re in a state of analysis paralysis? If that is the case then look no further, us at JustPark have thought ahead and have got you covered!
We’ve compiled a list of activities you can do in the capital city (realistic things) ranging from family events at Christmas-themed fairs to silent discos and DJ nights at museums.
We’ll also point you to the closest parking spaces for each event to make it that bit easier for booking a space in advance if you plan on driving. Remember: if you plan to have a few drinks or will need to stay overnight somewhere, leave your car in its secure space and book overnight parking so you can safely pick it up the next day once you’re ready.
Watch the famous London fireworks display
For many people, this is the go-to event and there are many reasons why it’s a crowd pleaser. Fireworks and New Year’s Eve go hand-in-hand no matter what part of the world you’re in, but fireworks overlooking the amazing London skyline? Doesn’t get much better than that. Even if you don’t want to part ways with the money for the ticket price (starting at £20), there are several different locations where you can see the display around London.
- Tickets start at £20 per person and must be booked in advance.
- Get full event information on the London Fireworks website.
- If you’re driving to the fireworks, find parking near the London Eye ahead of time to avoid overpaying for a parking space or battling congested roads in Central London.
Go clubbing at one of the hundreds of events planned across the city
If clubbing is more of your thing and you’d rather enter the New Year with a DJ countdown, then there are a lot of different options available for this too.
Whatever your music taste, budget, or appetite of location in the city, there is usually something going on in every corner. A few honourable mentions of various events happening are:
- Cirque du Soul: New Year’s Eve party: For the person who loves techno remixes of chart hits and trance music to zone out to.
- Skinny Kitchen NYE House Party: This is for the person who wants to revisit their childhood and journey back to the 90s & 00s in a house party styled environment (the leopard print coats and leotards are sold separately)
- New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball & After Party: Enjoy an evening of elegance and glam at this black-tie event, coming with dinner and entrance to the after party.
Visit Winter Wonderland for New Year’s Eve with the family
If you're wanting to spend the evening with your family or a potential special person, then why not visit Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland and enjoy the rides and ice sculptures followed by the mandatory hot chocolate. For those thinking that it would have ended by that that time of year, it actually goes on until the 5th of Jan, so you have more than enough time.
Celebrate from the Thames on a New Year's Eve cruise
London’s NYE cruise is a great experience to tick off the bucket list, being able to see the London skyline and iconic landmarks from the POV of a boat allows you to capture the beauty of the city in a unique way. You also get a free meal and the chance to watch the fireworks display without having to fork out extra for the ticket (a win win if you ask me!) Find out more here.
- There are many different cruise providers that offer a range of family-friendly to luxury options; make sure you do some research so you can find the one best for you.
- If you plan on driving into the city or staying at a hotel for the night, you can book parking near the cruise docks
New Year’s Eve at The National History Museum
This may come as a surprise to many, but the National History Museum is a well-visited venue for NYE celebrations.
There are several different attractions to choose from at the venue including a silent disco, interactive sessions with expert animal handlers, galleries after dark, DJ sets in the famous Hintze hall plus many more! Whether you are after an educational & informative night or want to party the night away under a Diplodocus skeleton, the National History Museum has you covered.
- Tickets are £125 per person — VIP tickets are also available. Tickets sold out last year so if you're interested in this event, you should book ASAP
- Full event information can be found on the National History Museum website
- If you're driving into London for the evening, you can pre-book affordable parking spaces near the National History Museum on JustPark.
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