Welcoming In The New Year: What Not To Miss In London

Another year almost gone. How has that happened? If winter has similarly crept up on you, you’re probably starting to think about event season. The most important party on any calendar is undoubtedly New Year. If you want to make yours extra special there’s nowhere better than the capital. Here’s what to do for New Year in London.

Food

Every tired traveller needs a slap up meal – particularly when you’ve got such an eventful night ahead! As with most capital cities, London has an unlimited number of restaurants to choose from. Some eateries will hold special deals or events on New Year’s Eve, so it’s worth keeping an eye open as the day gets closer.

Perhaps one of the most magical ways to spend a London New Year is on a Thames river cruise. Most companies will offer a package deal with a three course meal, unlimited drinks and entertainment. Alternatively, if you’re heading to the famous fireworks stick to restaurants nearby such as Gillray’s Steakhouse and Bar, which is only a two minute walk away.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

It would be almost criminal to spend New Year in London and not go and see its world-famous, spectacular fireworks display. It’s held next to the London Eye and draws a huge crowd and a great atmosphere. Designated viewing areas along the Thames tend to fill up early – around 9-10 pm – so be prepared to spend the majority of the evening there if you want front row seats.

Parties and Club Nights

The quintessential New Year’s Eve activity is partying, and with some of the best bars and clubs in the world London won’t disappoint you.  Most clubs hold huge nights to celebrate the New Year, covering every conceivable genre of music, and 2014 is no exception.

For dance music head to XOYO in the heart of Shoreditch, or The O2 Academy who are hosting ten of the world’s leading DJs. If dance music isn’t really your thing then indie heaven Koko is probably right up your street – this year’s event is the NME Ball.

Events and Entertainment

If you don’t feel like dancing ‘till dawn or watching fireworks there’s plenty of other options available. The Comedy Store in Piccadilly Circus promises a star studded line-up this New Year including Tom Wrigglesworth, Ian Stone and The Noise Next Door. Fits of giggles can’t be a bad way to see in 2014!

If you’re looking for something a bit more cultured why not try Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club. This legendary venue is one of the oldest jazz clubs in the world, first opening in 1959. This New Year they are throwing a black tie party featuring Georgie Fame and his band The Blue Flames, as well as Ray Gelato's Giants and The Ronnie Scott's All Stars.

Where to Stay

Where you stay in London will likely depend on what specific plans you have. New Year’s Eve usually means staying out late, so you don’t want to be too far from where you plan to spend the evening. If you are going to see the fireworks, central hotels such as The Corinthia and The London Marriott County Hall are ideally situated only a couple of minutes’ walk away. Central locations are also close to transport links making it easy to get around. BHRC has a wide range of hotels in London, so you should be able to find the right one for you.

New Year’s Eve occupies the number one spot on everyone’s party calendar, and there’s nowhere better to spend it than the capital. With some of the world’s best clubs and bars, an outstanding firework display and every type of restaurant you can imagine, you really will be spoilt for choice.

Do you have any tips on what to do in London this New Year? Let us know in the comments.