Where to spend New Year’s Eve in London

If there’s one night of the year with an incredible amount of pressure on it, it’s New Year’s Eve. And, whilst we are all, by now, well aware that the night will inevitably be an anticlimax, there’s still no harm in trying. We’d always recommend that you actually make plans, because the evening where you just ‘see what happens’ just never works out – especially on New Year’s Eve. Don’t rely on getting into the same club you go to every Saturday night; remember that people have been planning their night for months, so you need to have a solid plan in place.

This is the one night of the year when you can gain exclusive access to Searcys, one of the most exclusive private members clubs in London, which is situated in the top of the Gherkin’s iconic domed roof. Guests will arrive dressed to the nines in their white tie, and can ring in the new year with one of two different ticket options: the indulgent package (£180, cocktails, canapés, three course meal) or the prestige package (£290, Champagne, five course tasting menu, unlimited access to the top two floors and the private members lounge). What’s more, you’ll have a fabulous view of all of the fireworks happening over London. Book here.

Step into the new year in the most glamorous way possible, by seeing midnight in at the Palm Court at the world famous Ritz hotel in London. The hotel are transforming the Palm Court into a fabulous space; a 1920s themed black tie event. The night is definitely going to end up pricey (at £795 per person), but with a four-course dinner, entertainment by Elle & The Pocket Belles singing vintage swing and modern day classics and the wonderful sound of bagpipes from The Lone Piper. Just before midnight, a 14-piece military marching band will escort you into The Ritz Restaurant to join other diners to view the live midnight countdown accompanied by the chimes of Big Ben. Buy tickets here.

No New Year’s Eve is complete without an epic firework display, and what better display to see in the city than the incredible show over the Thames? London’s skyline will be completely lit up by glorious fireworks and with views of Big Ben, the whole of Westminster and an electric atmosphere, there truly is no better way to start 2016. Buy tickets here.

If you’re looking to do something slightly more casual, head to drinks at the Shard. Still one of London’s most popular venues, the Shard is the perfect place to see in the new year. Time Out are hosting a party with the iconic institution, which will give party goers an incredible 360 degree view of the city, accompanied by a delicious cocktail and glass of champagne on arrival. Buy tickets here.

Step back in time this New Year’s Eve and make like they did in the 1920s, during the prohibition period. Dance, drink and gamble the night away in a secret location at a party that will go on deep into the night – until the police shut it down. A party like this is an incredible excuse to dress up, look the part and ring in the new year at one of the most glamorous parties in the Capital. See more here.

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