Experts Rank the Best Places in the UK to Watch New Year’s Eve Fireworks

The Halloween pumpkins are barely carved and the fireworks of Bonfire Night haven’t even started crackling, but here’s the thing — New Year’s Eve creeps up fast. Before you know it, you’re in a taxi queue at 11:58pm wondering why you didn’t book something properly months ago.

If you want to watch the best New Year’s Eve fireworks in the UK this year, you better start getting your plans in place. And contrary to what most people assume, the best views aren’t in London. A study looking at cloud cover, light pollution and brightness has revealed the cities that offer the clearest skies for fireworks — and a few of the winners might surprise you.

Dundee Tops the List for Fireworks Views

Top of the rankings is Dundee, which has quietly claimed the crown as the best place in the UK to see in the New Year with fireworks. Scoring 73.1 out of 100, Dundee’s combination of low light pollution and generally clear skies makes it a brilliant setting for an unspoiled midnight display.

The riverside provides a perfect vantage point, but Dundee Law — the hill overlooking the city — is a local favourite for its panoramic views. It’s Hogmanay with a proper view, and far less crowded than the capital.

Eastbourne’s Coastal Glow

If the idea of fireworks over water appeals, Eastbourne in Sussex offers a fantastic coastal alternative. Ranking second, it’s the kind of place where a crisp sea breeze, a paper-wrapped portion of chips, and a clear night sky come together to create something pretty special. The seafront gives you a front-row seat for the fireworks without the battle for elbow room you get elsewhere.

Chelmsford Keeps It Clear

Third place goes to Chelmsford, which proves you don’t need a world-famous skyline to make the most of New Year’s Eve fireworks. Thanks to low artificial brightness and minimal cloud cover, it’s an excellent pick for those who prefer a calmer celebration without sacrificing the spectacle. Many locals head to Hylands Park for a clean, open view of the night sky.

Other Cities That Shine

The rest of the top 10 makes for a solid NYE travel shortlist. Cambridge lands in fourth with its mix of historic atmosphere and wide skies, followed by Bournemouth in fifth — another coastal beauty with brilliant visibility. Rounding out the top spots are Cheltenham, Bedford, Ipswich, Aberdeen, and Stevenage.

These might not be headline-grabbing NYE destinations, but they’re ideal for anyone who actually wants to see the fireworks, rather than just hear the countdown muffled through a crowd.

The complete top 10 list looks like this:

1. Dundee - 73.1
2. Eastbourne - 72.1
3. Chelmsford - 72.09
4. Cambridge - 68
5. Bournemouth - 67.3
6. Cheltenham - 67.1
7. Bedford - 67.09
8. Ipswich - 67.02
9. Aberdeen - 66.96
10. Stevenage - 66.88

London’s Fireworks: Impressive, But Not Ideal

Of course, London will still light up the Thames on New Year’s Eve — it always does. But the study makes clear what many Londoners already know: heavy light pollution, unpredictable weather, and serious crowding don’t make for the best viewing conditions. Unless you’re lucky enough to nab a prime ticketed spot or a hotel balcony, you’ll probably get a decent atmosphere but a less-than-perfect view.

Big Celebrations Elsewhere

Fireworks are one thing; the party atmosphere is another. Some cities are famous for both. Edinburgh's Hogmanay is legendary — fireworks over the castle, music, and a crowd that knows how to count down. Cardiff puts on a lively waterfront show, and Manchester is always a solid bet for a big, busy celebration.

If you’re chasing energy, not just visibility, these cities deliver on both fronts.

Planning Your Trip the Smart Way

New Year’s Eve transport can be brutal. Trains run on altered timetables, taxis are booked out days in advance, and the post-midnight surge is legendary. If you’re heading out of town, book accommodation early. Many hotels offer NYE packages, and staying overnight is usually more enjoyable (and cheaper) than a 2am battle to get home.

If you’re staying local, check what’s running on the night and plan your route. The midnight rush isn’t when you want to discover your train’s stopped at 10pm.

Weather: The Great Unknown

The one thing no one can guarantee is the weather. Even the clearest cities on the list can be scuppered by an untimely cloud bank. The good news is that picking a destination with better average visibility ups your chances. Keep an eye on the forecast, layer up, and accept that a bracing chill is part of the British New Year’s Eve experience. A hot drink doesn’t hurt, either.

Or Skip the Crowds Entirely

Of course, you don’t have to travel at all. If the thought of queues and crowds makes you shudder, why not bring the fireworks to you? Hosting your own New Year’s Eve fireworks display at home can be every bit as memorable as a public event — and a lot warmer.

At Epic Fireworks, we stock everything from classic sparklers and fountains to sky-filling barrages and rockets that make supermarket fireworks look tame. Our DIY New Year’s Eve display packs come with a curated selection of fireworks, safety gear and a firing guide, so you can light up the sky without needing to hire a display team.

Shop our full range of fireworks today

FAQs About New Year’s Eve Fireworks in the UK 2025

Where is the best place in the UK to watch New Year’s Eve fireworks?

Dundee currently tops the rankings for the clearest skies and best visibility, closely followed by Eastbourne and Chelmsford.

Is London still worth visiting for New Year’s Eve?

Yes, if you want atmosphere and the iconic countdown by the Thames. But if your priority is actually seeing the fireworks and not having to worry about tickets and huge crowds, other cities may offer a better view with less hassle.

When should I book travel and accommodation?

The earlier the better. October and November are prime booking months before prices skyrocket in December.

What if it rains on New Year’s Eve?

British weather is unpredictable, so dress for the cold and wet. Choosing a city with better average visibility helps, but it’s always worth having a backup plan.

Can I host my own New Years Eve fireworks display?

Absolutely. Just follow local safety guidance and noise curfews. A well-planned home display can be just as spectacular as a public event — without the crowds.

Where Will You Be This New Year’s Eve?

Whether you’re heading to Dundee for clear skies, Eastbourne for seaside sparkle or Edinburgh for Hogmanay in full swing, New Year’s Eve 2025 is full of possibilities. The best celebration is the one that actually works for you — whether that’s shoulder to shoulder with thousands or in your back garden with your favourite people and a few sky-filling fireworks.

However you spend it, make it count. And if you want your own private light show, you know where to find us.