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Everything you need to know about London’s spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks

London is getting ready to welcome the new year in style! The Mayor of London’s world-famous New Year’s Eve annual display will dazzle once again with an unforgettable spectacle of pyrotechnics, immersive lighting, and an electrifying soundtrack set against the iconic backdrop of the London Eye and the Big Ben.

Fireworks in vibrant red and blue explode above the London Eye, creating a dramatic night sky display.

With demand always sky-high, tickets are now on sale with discounted prices for local residents. Here is your essential guide to securing your spot, choosing the best viewing area, and planning your night.

Ticket prices for London New Year’s Eve fireworks display and the special discount for London residents

For 2026, the Mayor of London is continuing a targeted price drop for capital residents. If your billing address carries a London postcode, you can claim a £20 discount per ticket.

Tickets are sold exclusively via Ticketmaster, with a hard limit of four tickets per buyer. When booking, ensure your postcode matches your payment card’s billing address, as verification checks apply. If you’re attending as a group, everyone must be booked into the exact same zone as moving between different viewing areas on the night will not be permitted.

Tip for local residents: Keep your photo ID and proof of address handy when entering the arena, as spot checks are conducted at ticket gates.

Choosing your viewing area

Six distinct, ticketed zones stretch across the Thames embankments and bridges. Each area offers a unique perspective on the midnight countdown:

Map of ticketed viewing areas and arrival routes for the Mayor of London's New Year's Eve fireworks.
Viewing areaLocationPerspectiveBest for
Blue Victoria EmbankmentDirect, head-on view of the London EyeThe ultimate prime view
RedVictoria Embankment (further east)Side view along the riverAtmospheric riverbank perspective
PinkWaterloo BridgeElevated skyline viewSweeping vistas across the Thames
WhiteWestminster BridgeIconic bridge perspectivePanoramic skyline views
GreenBehind the London EyeClose-up immersive viewBeing right under the action
OrangeAlbert EmbankmentAccessible side viewStep-free, lower density, dedicated seating

All gates open at 8:00 pm and strictly close at 10:30 pm.

Accessibility and family advice

Accessibility

All zones feature step-free road access, accessible toilets, first aid stations, and food/drink stalls. However, standard zones (Blue, Red, Pink, Green, White) involve significant standing in densely packed crowds. The Orange Zone is specifically tailored for guests with access needs, featuring dedicated seating, hearing loops, a Changing Places facility, and a designated vehicle drop-off area.

Attending with children

While New Year’s Eve is a magical London tradition, organizers advise that the event is not suitable for young children. Expect long periods of standing in freezing winter temperatures, extremely heavy crowds, loud pyrotechnics, and major post-event transport delays. Prams and pushchairs are strictly prohibited inside ticketed areas and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Every attendee requires an individual ticket regardless of age.

Essential travel advice

Central London will experience extensive road closures starting as early as 2:00 pm on 31 December, running through to 6:00 am on New Year’s Day. Traffic on key bridges will be suspended ahead of the event.

  • What to pack: Bring your valid e-ticket, photo ID, warm layers, and sensible footwear.
  • Banned items: Large backpacks, luggage, glass bottles, chairs, folding seats, and private fireworks/sparklers are banned.
  • Travel smart: Check Transport for London (TfL) travel updates and use this website to plan your travel before heading out, as surrounding Underground stations will operate exit-only or restricted access during peak hours.

Event details

Mayor of London’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks 2026 will be on Thursday 31 December 2026 (gates open 8:00 pm). The event runs until 12:30 am on Friday 1 January 2027.
Location: South Bank and Victoria Embankment, Central London
Tickets: £20–£55 via Ticketmaster (Advance booking required; no ticket sales at the gate).

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