Best Free Viewing Spots to Watch Edinburgh's Hogmanay Fireworks

If there’s one place in the UK that knows how to say goodbye to the old year in style, it’s Edinburgh. Every December, the Scottish capital transforms into a four-day street party that mixes tradition, music, and some of the most spectacular fireworks in the world.

In Edinburgh, Hogmanay is a multi-day affair. The celebrations run from the 29th December to 1st January, including the Torchlight Procession, the world-famous Street Party on Princes Street, the Concert in the Gardens, and the grand fireworks display from Edinburgh Castle at midnight.

And yes, people really do still sing Auld Lang Syne — written by none other than Robert Burns — arm in arm with complete strangers. It’s all part of the charm.

If you’re heading north for Hogmanay, here’s everything you need to know — from the best viewing spots and must-see events to how to actually survive the cold.

The Fireworks: When, Where and What to Expect

The Edinburgh Hogmanay fireworks are launched from the castle ramparts at midnight on 31st December, set to a musical soundtrack that changes each year. Expect a roughly nine-minute display, visible across much of the city centre and far beyond.

There are also smaller “warm-up” bursts at 9 pm, 10 pm, and 11 pm to mark the countdown — handy if you’ve already lost track of time (or your sense of direction).

Can You Watch the Fireworks for Free?

Yes — and plenty do from a wide range of vantage points across the city that give you a great view without a ticket - we've listed the best ones below. Just wrap up warm and get there early.

Alternatively, Edinburgh’s New Year’s Eve coverage is shown live on BBC One Scotland, so you can enjoy the display from your sofa — ideally with a dram in hand and a warm fire, rather than a stranger’s elbow in your ribs.

The Best Free and Ticketed Places to Watch the Fireworks in Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s geography is a gift to firework-watchers — the city’s built on hills, so you can catch the display from plenty of free spots if you can’t get tickets to the official events.

Here’s where to head:

Princes Street Gardens (Ticketed)
If you’ve got a ticket to the main Street Party or Concert in the Gardens, you’ll get the full experience — live bands, countdowns, and a front-row view of the fireworks over the castle. Tickets sell out quickly, so book early.

Calton Hill
A classic. Just a 10-minute walk from Princes Street, Calton Hill offers panoramic views of the skyline and a direct sightline to the castle. It gets busy but not unbearable. Bring a flask and a friend who doesn’t mind uneven ground.

Inverleith Park
For families or anyone dodging crowds, this north-side park offers a relaxed vantage point with plenty of space. You won’t hear the music, but you’ll see the bursts clearly — and can be home before the gridlock hits.

Arthur’s Seat
If you fancy earning your view, hike up before dark. It’s windy, steep, and cold, but you’ll see fireworks bursting across the entire city. Remember: descent + darkness + prosecco = caution advised.

The Meadows
This open park just south of the Old Town gives you a wide-angle view of the castle fireworks without the shoulder-to-shoulder press of Princes Street. Great for groups or anyone bringing kids.

New for 2025: The Mound and George Street Zones
According to the official Hogmanay programme, extra viewing zones are being trialled for 2025/26 to spread out crowds. The Mound and George Street are expected to have open viewing areas with street performers and food stalls.

What Else Happens During Edinburgh’s Hogmanay?

Of course, there’s far more to Edinburgh’s Hogmanay than just the fireworks — torchlit parades, ceilidhs, concerts, and even a bracing dip in the River Forth if you’re feeling brave.

Rather than cram it all in here, we’ve put together a full breakdown of the celebrations — including event dates, line-ups, ticket info, and insider tips.

Read next: Edinburgh Hogmanay Fireworks: The Complete Guide to Scotland’s Biggest New Year Celebration

How to Get Around Edinburgh's Hogmanay Celebrations

Central Edinburgh is pedestrian-only during Hogmanay night, so be ready to walk.
Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams usually run extended services until the early hours, though some routes close temporarily around midnight. Book accommodation close to the city centre if you can — or plan to stay put until the crowds thin out.

FAQs: Edinburgh Hogmanay Fireworks

When are the Edinburgh Hogmanay fireworks?

Midnight on 31st December, with smaller countdown bursts at 9 pm, 10 pm, and 11 pm.

Are the fireworks free to watch?

Yes — from spots like Calton Hill or Inverleith Park. The Street Party and Concert in the Gardens are ticketed.

What time should I arrive for the fireworks?

If you’re watching from free areas, arrive by 10 pm to secure a good spot. Ticketed areas open around 8 pm.

Is Hogmanay suitable for families?

Yes. Plus, the Torchlight Procession and earlier events such as the Bairns Hogmanay Ceilidh Club are great options for families instead of the late-night street party.

Can I bring alcohol?

Not into official event zones — bag checks are enforced. Licensed bars and pop-ups are available inside.

Bring the Fireworks Home

If you’d rather skip the crowds and still end the year with a bang, bring Hogmanay home. At Epic Fireworks, we’ve got everything you need to create your own New Year’s Eve show — from low-noise fireworks to full DIY display packs that rival the pros.

Our fireworks are up to five times more powerful than supermarket ones, and every pack comes with simple instructions so you can fire safely and confidently. Whether you’re lighting up a back garden in Glasgow or a field in Fife, we’ve got you covered.

Shop our full range of New Year’s Eve fireworks here