New Year's Day in London

New Year's Day in London

Here are our tips for the best things to do on New Year's Day in London.

Once the fireworks quiet down and the hangover cures kick in, New Year's Day can be a fun time to get out and explore London. Here are our tips for the best things to do on New Year's Day in London.

If you've perhaps chosen the wiser route of seeing in the New Year minus the monumental hangover, you'll find there's actually a fair bit to get through on the launch of the new decade. While your friends are still clutching the porcelain throne in regret, you can spend January 1st soaking up some culture sans the crowds.

London's New Year Parade
This free family spectacle welcomes in the New Year from noon on the 1st January. More than 100,000 performers representing 20 of the world's countries will be filling the streets of London. Expect marching bands, cheerleaders, clowns, acrobats and other circus acts.

The London Eye
Normally awash with tourists and screaming children, you can expect a rather subdued experience on the London Eye as most people take to the sofa for a TV day. Take in the view of a considerably emptier London as the dawn of a new year begins.

Have a Museum day
Many of London's top museums are open on New Year's Day. Whether it's the impressive V&A or the educational Science Museum there's plenty to explore. Check out our guide to the best museums in London.

Go Ice Skating
Ice skating may seem more like a Christmas tradition but many of the popular rinks in London are also open on January 1st.  Slip on your blades and take to the ice! Check out more information on London ice skating.

Christmas Fair at the O2
Soak up the last of the festive season with a trip to one of London's largest Christmas markets and enjoy the thrilling roller coasters, vintage fun fair and a chance to pick up some new year bargains on the market stalls.

Kew Gardens
A nice sobering stroll at Kew Gardens is sure to clear your head of foggy memories from the night before. Nothing screams detox like a relaxing walk around the vast Royal Bontanic Gardens and as long as you're not feeling queasy there are horse and carriage rides too.

Check out all things to do on New Year's Day in London
Check out all things to do in London

Spoonfed Holidays