London is set to welcome 2026 with its world-renowned New Year's Eve fireworks spectacular, returning to illuminate the skies above the River Thames on Wednesday, 31 December 2025. The annual pyrotechnic display, which draws vast crowds to the capital, will see its main launch precisely at midnight to herald the start of the new year.
Essential Timings and Ticketing Information
Access to the prime viewing areas along Victoria Embankment and around the London Eye is strictly by ticket only for this year's event. Tickets must be purchased in advance through official sellers like Ticketmaster, with prices historically ranging from approximately £20 to £50 per person. Costs vary depending on the chosen zone and whether the purchaser is a London resident.
Gates to the six main ticketed zones – Blue, Red, Pink, Green, White, and the accessible Orange area – are scheduled to open from 8pm. Entry will close at 10:30pm, so late arrivals will not be admitted. The event is expected to conclude around 12:30am on New Year's Day. Each zone offers different sightlines towards the launch points on the South Bank and the iconic London Eye.
Alternative Viewing Spots and Transport Advice
For those without an official ticket, several alternative locations across the city offer more distant, panoramic views of the midnight display. Popular spots include Alexandra Palace and Parliament Hill, though these areas are also expected to be extremely busy. Thames river cruises and special venue parties provide premium, ticketed alternatives with excellent riverside vistas.
Visitors are strongly advised to plan their journey meticulously. Central London will see significant road closures and early shutdowns of some Tube stations for safety reasons. Stations will be exceptionally crowded after midnight. Additionally, note that several Royal Parks, including Primrose Hill, Greenwich Park, and St. James's Park, will be closed or have restrictions in place over the New Year's Eve period.
How to Watch the London Fireworks from Home
Anyone preferring to avoid the crowds can still enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of their sofa. The display will be broadcast live on BBC One, with coverage typically starting shortly before midnight and continuing into the early hours of New Year's Day.
The event will also be streamed in real-time on BBC iPlayer, accessible on smart TVs, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices. The broadcast usually features live shots of the fireworks over the London Eye and Thames, accompanied by commentary and coverage of celebrations across the capital, making it an ideal option for families and those unable to secure riverside tickets.
