New Years Eve can be a bit of a let-down; the build-up, the expectation and the hangover from Christmas can all be to blame, along with a severe lack of good planning.
But that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s a write off, all you need to do to is follow one rule: don’t expect the fun to come to you. Make the last night of the year go with a bang by finding out what’s going on well in advance, choosing one location, and picking a great group of friends to spend it with.
Brave the outdoors
And where better to be to experience the buzz than in the City. There are endless events to suit all budgets and tastes.
For a cheaper and child-friendly option than the bars and clubs, join the other 250,000 people at the London Eye to witness the UK’s biggest firework display. Listen out for Big Ben’s bongs ringing out over the city at midnight and watch the atmospheric show from the designated viewing areas.
New Years Eve Cruises
Why not enjoy the firework display from the luxury of a river cruise? Hop aboard a Clipper for a three-hour trip down the Thames. Depart at 10.15, when you’ll enjoy a welcome drink, then take in the sight of famous landmarks lit up in the pomp of the festive period. Raise your champagne glasses at midnight as you watch the spectacular firework display.
New Year’s Eve In London as seen from the river
Dance the night away
If you fancy dancing your way into 2014 you’ll be spoilt for choice. Indie lovers should head to Propaganda’s Prehistoric party at O2 Shepherds Bush Empire; T-Rex will be on the decks, with other dinosaurs roaming the building.
But if electro and techno is more your thing, Secretsundaze are hosting a dance extravaganza at Electric Brixton. Expect to see DJs Levon Vincent, Shed, Point G and resident DJs Giles Smith and James Priestley.
For a bass, garage and synth pop night, grab a ticket to Building Six in the O2 at Peninsular Square, where Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs are providing the headline DJ set.
For clubbers with a big budget
Pacha nightclub offers the most up-market clubbing experience in the city, and this is the biggest night in the calendar. With a £45 pricetag this isn’t for the budget party-seeker, but the night will transform you to the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas; who knows what bizarre sights will greet you.
Get a dose of culture
If you are a fan of the smash film-hit that was The Artist, then there’s a high chance that you’ll love an NYE live screening of Michel Hazanavicius’s much loved film. Playing at 3pm and 7pm on December 31st at the Royal Albert Hall, this silent film will be brought to life thanks to the stunning musical accompaniments of The London Symphony Orchestra. Tickets are priced between £25 and £65.
Classical Spectacular, Royal Albert Hall, London
Don’t get caught out
Make sure you buy tickets in advance, as even the bars and pubs may be hosting ticketed events. If you plan on watching the Fireworks at the London Eye make sure you’re in the right area before 10:30 as you’ll be unable to watch the fireworks if you’re too late.
Plan your travel in advance as tube and train times are different over New Year. Download the Christmas and New Year travel update booklet online to check your route home.
This 2013 London New Year’s Eve Events Guide is courtesy of Simon Colley who works for London serviced apartments brand Supercity Aparthotels, follow them on twitter – @SupercitySC
