Best Places to Spend New Year's Eve 2024 in the UK

As another year shuffles off the stage and we prepare to welcome 2025, cities across the UK are limbering up for a night of celebration, fireworks, and more “Auld Lang Syne” singalongs than you can shake a sparkler at.

Whether you’re looking for a night of dancing, a firework extravaganza, or simply a good old knees-up, there’s a perfect spot to see in the New Year across the UK.

From London’s world-famous fireworks to the raucous Hogmanay celebrations in Edinburgh, here’s where you’ll want to be when the clock strikes midnight on Tuesday 31st December 2024.

London – New Year’s Eve on the Thames

It wouldn’t be New Year’s Eve without mentioning London’s jaw-dropping fireworks display, would it? The capital pulls out all the stops each year, treating tens of thousands to an awe-inspiring show above the Thames. The London Eye takes centre stage as bursts of colour light up the sky, perfectly synced to a soundtrack that’s guaranteed to get you dancing – or at least swaying with a glass of bubbly.

The display is a ticketed event, so if you fancy nabbing one of the best spots along the riverbank, you’ll need to have one. But fear not – there are plenty of alternative (and free!) viewing locations across the city if you don’t have a ticket to the official viewing areas.

Places like Primrose Hill, Hampstead Heath, or Alexandra Palace offer sweeping views of the skyline, where you can watch the pyrotechnics unfold from a distance – and with fewer elbows in your ribs. Check out our article all about where to watch London's New Years Eve firework display for free to choose the right one for you.

If you’re not quite ready to head home after the countdown, London’s nightlife will keep the party alive well into the small hours. Oh, and don’t forget the New Year’s Day Parade on January 1st, featuring performers, musicians, and floats from all over the globe – perfect if you need a more family-friendly way to start 2025.

Edinburgh – Hogmanay Done Properly

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay isn’t just a New Year’s Eve celebration; it’s a bucket-list experience. Scotland knows how to put on a party, and Hogmanay spans three days of festivities that make most other cities look like they’re not even trying.

The torchlight procession on December 30th kicks things off in dramatic style, as thousands of torchbearers wind through the city, ending in a spectacular light and sound show at Arthur’s Seat. Then, on New Year’s Eve itself, Princes Street becomes party central, packed with live music, DJs, and plenty of tartan-clad revellers dancing the night away.

When midnight rolls around, all eyes turn to Edinburgh Castle as the sky erupts in an unforgettable firework display set against the city’s historic skyline. If you’re up for something a little wilder, you can join the brave souls at the Loony Dook on New Year’s Day. A dip in the freezing River Forth while wearing fancy dress? Why not – it’s tradition, after all.

Make sure you check out our article: New Year's Eve in Edinburgh: Best Fireworks Viewing Spots and Tips for a Great Night in the City.

Birmingham – A Buzzing New Year’s Eve in the Midlands

Birmingham might not have a huge central fireworks display like London or Edinburgh, but don’t let that fool you – this city knows how to throw a party. The city centre’s bustling pubs, bars, and restaurants will be in full swing, offering themed parties, live music, and just about every kind of celebration you could want.

Head to Victoria Square or Centenary Square for a great atmosphere and the chance to see private firework displays lighting up the sky across the city as the clock strikes twelve. And if you’re a fan of late-night revelry, you’re in luck – Birmingham’s nightlife keeps the party going well past midnight. Whether you’re sipping cocktails in a swanky bar or belting out tunes in a karaoke pub, it’s a great place to see in the New Year.

Manchester – A City That Knows How to Celebrate

Manchester is pulling out all the stops this year with a huge free fireworks event in the city centre, offering space for 20,000 revellers to ring in the New Year in style. After a triumphant return last year, the event moves to St Peter’s Square for the first time, providing a stunning backdrop with fireworks launched from the roof of Manchester Central Library—Big Santa included.

The family-friendly celebrations kick off at 10pm and be sure to arrive early as entrance is on a first come, first served basis, and once capacity hits 20,000, that’s it!

For everything you need to know about this event, check out our full guide: New Year’s Eve in Manchester: Where to Be and What to Expect.

Cardiff – Festivities by the Bay

Cardiff always brings the festive spirit, and New Year’s Eve is no exception. The heart of the celebrations is Cardiff Winter Wonderland, with its ice skating rink, funfair rides, and festive food and drink. Families and partygoers alike gather here to soak up the atmosphere before heading to Cardiff Bay, where the city’s fireworks display provides a spectacular finale to the year.

For live music lovers, there’s no shortage of gigs and performances across the city’s many venues, ranging from folk music to contemporary hits. Whether you’re ice skating, dancing in front of the City Hall, or counting down to the fireworks at the Bay, Cardiff offers a warm (if slightly chilly) welcome to the New Year.

Glasgow – Fireworks, Music, and Scottish Charm

Glasgow may share its Hogmanay roots with Edinburgh, but it adds its own flair to New Year’s Eve celebrations. The city’s legendary music scene takes centre stage, with live gigs and ceilidh dancing happening across venues large and small.

Sadly the fireworks don't appear to be happening this year, but a night filled with a few traditional Scottish tunes and the warm hospitality Glasgow is known for, and you’ve still got a New Year’s Eve to remember.

Liverpool – Fireworks on the Waterfront

Liverpool’s New Year’s Eve celebrations revolve around its iconic waterfront. This year the city’s official fireworks display will return to the Pier Head or Albert Dock, offering an unbeatable setting for the midnight countdown. There’s something magical about seeing fireworks reflected in the waters of the River Mersey, with the city skyline glowing in the background.

If you want more than just fireworks, Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife will give you plenty of choice. From buzzing bars along Concert Square to chic venues in the Baltic Triangle, there’s no shortage of ways to see out 2024 in style.

Prefer a New Year’s Eve at Home?

If braving the crowds, queues, and questionable weather isn’t your thing, you’re in good company. Sometimes the best way to celebrate is with your own firework display in the back garden.

At Epic Fireworks, we’re your go-to for everything you need to put on an awesome New Year's Eve fireworks display. With an extensive range of fireworks, from sparklers and fountains to show-stopping barrages and rockets we've got everything you need. 

Looking for something easy but still impressive?

Our DIY NYE firework display packs come with everything you need to create a stunning show, with easy-to-follow instructions to help you fire like a pro. Plus, our fireworks are up to 5 times more powerful than supermarket fireworks so you'll be getting more bang for your buck, literally!

Shop our full range of fireworks today