Being in the Capital of any country during the countdown is an exciting time, we take a look at the 2021 New Year’s Eve celebrations in London and help you work out what is happening and where.
Planning ahead
Like most big events, the authorities plan this event a year or two in advance. We suggest that if you want rooms in London during Christmas and New Year, booking a year in advance is sensible. Plus it guarantees you a place.
Disappointment down by the River
One coveted place to be on the big night is down by the river. Watching the Fireworks deployed from barges over the water. With the London Eye all lit up and the sky exploding above it, it makes for a fantastic display. However, there is a huge disappointment this year as there will be no public display. Instead, it will be broadcast on BBC One.
But you can still go bobbing along
The river cruises are very popular on New Year’s Eve. You can choose a slow sedate cruise along the Thames on City river cruises or a thrilling speedboat ride with Thames rockets. Either trip will have you within the city centre for the evening.
Music and Delights on New Year’s Eve
Taking in a concert or show for the evening can be a magical way to save yourself for the midnight hour. The Nutcracker the classical Christmas ballet is being performed at The Royal Albert Hall. Staying Classical with a concert at The Barbican. Classical music by the London Concert Orchestra with the New Year’s Eve Gala. Or laugh your head off at the New Year’s Eve Comedy in Leicester Square. Or the venue nearby in Clapham ( well, it’s nearby to our hotel!)
Public Transport
Doesn’t look like it’s free like New Years Eve before
While Public transport is limited over the Christmas break, due partly to the extra bank holidays in lieu of the weekend Christmas and Boxing Day and New Year’s Day itself. On NYE the transport winds down early evening and there are no night busses. Worth noting that taxis are premium rates too. Lots of people use the Santander Cycles scheme. Or stay up until the morning shift starts on the tube again.
New Year’s Eve in Trafalgar Square
With the huge Christmas tree and partying till dawn, many people have flocked to Trafalgar Square, however for the first time ever, entry to the square is through a ticketing system. There will be live music, some of London’s best stage performers, food stalls and a large screen showing the live broadcast to more than 5,000 guests. If you want one of these highly coveted tickets, register your interest here and you will be notified of the ballot, but once you are act swiftly.- Sadly this event has been cancelled. Let us hope that next year we can celebrate in the Square again.
Pubs, Bars, Restaurants and Clubs
Book early for New Years Eve
These will be open, but it is worth booking especially as the public free displays are cancelled, there is likely to be heavy demands on the rest of hospitality. Time limits on eating in restaurants will not guarantee you a place for the moment the clocks strike midnight. Check individual websites for booking requirements.
We, at London Hotels Group, will be serving you throughout the holidays and the year beyond. May we wish you the Happiest of times, a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year for 2022