As we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, what better way to celebrate than watching one of the UK's best New Year's Eve fireworks?

In this blog, we'll give our tips on the best firework displays in the UK to give you a few options for where you want to watch these incredible light shows - whether in your hometown, on a UK staycation or maybe even in your own back garden.

Let's ring in 2027 with a bang with our top picks for UK fireworks displays Dec 31 2026 covering:

But first, let's unpack exactly what you can expect if you decide to spend New Year 2026 in the UK.

Note: due to enviornmental and cost considerations, many displays of New Year's Eve fireworks in the UK have been retired for 2026/2027. Details explained in each section below.

How To Celebrate New Year In The UK

Why do we set off fireworks on New Year's Eve?

fireworks in london at new year, nye fireworks UK
Before we dive into the glittering night sky of the best UK fireworks displays, let's take a moment to think back on the history of fireworks on New Year's Eve.

This age-old New Year's tradition dates back to ancient civilisations, where people believed that the loud noises and bright lights from fireworks would drive away evil spirits and bring good luck for the coming year. Today, it's just a nice way to come together and watch some pretty lights at night.

How to set off DIY fireworks at home (safely!)

new years eve fireworks uk over the river thames
If you'd rather avoid the crowds, save money and not venture out on New Year's Eve 2026, but still want to experience the magic of fireworks, consider setting off your own firework display at home.

Obviously, setting off fireworks incorrectly can be highly dangerous so make sure that you follow the safety instructions Ensure your safety and follow these tips:

  • Buy fireworks from licensed sellers.
  • Read and follow the instructions on the label carefully.
  • Choose a safe and open outdoor space.
  • Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby.
  • Never relight a dud firework.

So, why not buy some nibbles and invite your friends and family around to watch your DIY fireworks display? You can save money, and bond with loved ones all while ringing in 2027 and enjoy the festivities.

Where are the best New Year's Eve fireworks in the UK?

the best new years eve fireworks in the uk for 2025 is in london

Deciding on the best New Year's Eve fireworks in the UK really depends on what you fancy.

If you want an extravagant, world-class display over an iconic setting, London or Edinburgh are your best bet. If you're seeking a more traditional, intimate New Year 2027, you can't go wrong with the Highland Hogmanay celebrations up in Inverness. But if you really don't like crowds and just want to have a special moment with your loved ones, your own garden with a private display will be just as nice.

Looking for more NYE UK tips? Check our our list of the best places to celebrate New Year's Eve in the UK, with something for all palettes. And if you want to skip the research, book the full trip with Away.ai.

The UK's 14 Best New Year's Eve Fireworks for 2026

1. London New Year Fireworks 2026 - The Mayor's Fireworks

london fireworks on NYE

Being in London for New Year's Eve has to be one of the most iconic ways to welcome 2027.

The New Year's Eve fireworks in London are truly something else. Tickets start at £20 (for Londeners, double for visitors) and you have to buy them beforehand - try showing up without a ticket and you won't get in! The fireworks are set up from the London Eye so make sure you check out the travel details and set off early to get a good spot for the show.

If you or loved ones have mobility issues, there is also an accessible viewing platform where you can bring your own foldable seat - guaranteeing that the London New Year's Eve fireworks can be enjoyed by all.

2. Stirling New Year Fireworks 2026 - Private Displays

stirling fireworks
It's unlikely that the Stirling New Year fireworks, that usually takes place at the Wallace Monument, will go ahead.

At this time, Stirling Council has not announced an official, public outdoor fireworks display or a city-sanctioned countdown zone for midnight. Following the financial constraints and cancellations of recent years, the emphasis has officially shifted toward ticketed indoor venue experiences. The flagship celebration in the city center is the return of Winterlight at The Albert Halls, running from December 27 through December 31, 2026.

But what is guaranteed is the various private fireworks displays you can still view an array of private displays by heading up to the best viewpoint in the city, Stirling Castle. Take flasks of hot chocolate (or something stronger) and huddle together with your loved ones as you wave goodbye to 2026.

The Best Hogmanay Events in Stirling 2026

Hogmanay at the Stirling Court Hotel
Riviera at Lux, Stirling
Celebrate 2027 in style at Stirling Court hotel, where you can party the night away and stay the night in the hotel.

Winterlight
The Albert Halls, Stirling
Immerse yourself in a musical celebration this winter with headline concerts featuring Mànran, Talisk, the Siobhan Miller Band, and RURA. The festival wraps up on the 31st with an All Ages Music Event spotlighting local artists, followed by the newly introduced Family Friendly Ceilidh paired with The Katie Allen Trio to count down to the bells.

Hogmanay Party
The Highland Gate, Stirling
For an authentic Scottish experience, you can't go wrong with The Highland Gate's Hogmanay party. Bid farewell to the old and embrace the new with an evening filled with a good food, good drinks, and a live DJ to party into the wee hours.

3. Birmingham New Year Fireworks 2026 - Are They Happening? birmingham Centenary Square on NYE

Contrary to popular belief, there is no official city-run or public New Year's Eve fireworks display in Birmingham city.

For the last two years, social media and websites have repeatedly circulated fake advertisements about Birmingham New Year Fireworks, drawing large crowds to Centenary Square for a non-existent show.

That being said, even in the absence of official fireworks, you can find heaps of clubs hosting NYE events. If you'd prefer a more refined soirée, book tickets to an exclusive dinner where you can enjoy a multi-course meal and excellent atmosphere.

The Best New Year Events in Birmingham 2026

Can't Fight the Midnight
Coyote Ugly, Birmingham
Ring in the New Year the only way Coyote knows how. Bar-top dancing, rodeo bull rides, and a countdown you'll be talking about for months.

Boogie Wonderland
Reflex, Birmingham
When it comes to New Year's Eve events, Be At One knows how to set the mood. Expect cocktails, bar bites and a soundtrack that carries the room from early evening through till after midnight.

4. Cardiff New Year Celebrations 2026 - City Hall

cardiff fireworks on new year
If you're in Cardiff for New Year 2026, the City Hall is the place to be! The Winter Wonderland will still be on so you can sip festive drinks, savour traditional Welsh food and take a trip on the big wheel before the bells ring. There will also be live music playing on the stage in front of the City Hall so you can dance and sing with your loved ones before the New Year countdown.

Note: There is no official, city-wide or central public midnight firework display in Cardiff city centre or at Cardiff Castle for New Year's Eve. The Cardiff City Council has moved away from a centralized public display.

The Best New Year Events in Cardiff 2026

New Years Eve Fiesta
Revolucion de Cuba Cardiff
Enjoy Prosecco, live music, dancers and the best cocktails in town.

2027 New Year's Masquerade Ball
Mary's, Cardiff
Get ready to count down to 2027 and celebrate in style with at Mary's. The ticket price include a glass of Prosecco on arrival, entertainment from fabulous hosts, and a DJ on the decks all night.

5. Belfast New Year Fireworks 2026 - Titanic Quarter

belfast new year fireworks 2024
For New Year's Eve 2026 in Belfast, you can expect a whole lot of fun at the Titanic Quarter, though council-run public fireworks have been canceled due to cost considerations.

New Year's celebrations in Belfast are venue-led, featuring hotel galas, club nights, and dining events. Whether you're looking for a chic soirée or a rowdy club night, you'll find a party to suit your tastes in Belfast.

The Best New Year Events in Belfast 2026

New Year's Eve Masquerade Ball
Titanic Hotel, Belfast
Belfast's chiquest NYE's soirée, complete with a five course meal, drinks flowing, and live entertainment. Dress to impress, don your finest masquerade mask, and celebrate the arrival of 2027 in one of Belfast's most iconic historic settings.

NYE 2026 at AMPM
AMPM, Belfast
At this all-round NYE Belfast event, book a table and keep it all evening long. Arrive to a glass of Prosecco, settle in for three courses, then let the DJ take you all the way to the countdown.

6. Edinburgh New Year Fireworks 2026 - Princes Street

new year in edinburgh fireworks

What's got to be one of the most iconic New Year's Eve parties, Edinburgh's Hogmanay can't be missed when spending dec 31st in Scotland's capital. The atmosphere is truly electric and the locals are friendlier than ever.

The Best Hogmanay Events in Edinburgh 2026

Edinburgh's Hogmanay
Various locations
The most famous New Year event in the city, get tickets to the street party and you can enjoy live music, access tons of outdoor bars and get the best views of the best New Year firework displays in the UK, all in front of Edinburgh's majestic castle. Make sure you arrive early though as the last entry is at 11 pm.

Torchlight Procession
Various locations
On the 29th, you can follow the torchlight procession around Edinbutgh's Old Town. This procession marks the start of Edinburgh's Hogmanay and has a carnival atmosphere, with live street theatre, fire performers, and drummers. This even is ticketed though so you'll need a wristband to join in on the fun.

NYE on The Royal Yacht Britannia
The Royal Yacht Britannia
For a glamorous start to 2027, spend New Year onboard the Royal Yacht Britannia. Included in your ticket is a four-course dinner in the State Dining Room and live music from the excellent band.

Not wanting to splash out on a ticket? Head up to Calton Hill or Arthur's Seat where you can enjoy the firework display free of charge along with many other private displays going on throughout the city.

7. Inverness New Years Fireworks - Private Displays

Inverness NYE fireworks
Sadly, Inverness' Red Hot Highland Fling has been permanently cancelled since 2025, but that doesn't mean the city will miss out on a spectacular New Year’s Eve.

While large-scale fireworks are off the cards at Northern Meeting Park and Bught Park, you can still enjoy dazzling firework displays lighting up the skies from people's homes. And it doesn’t mean the city isn’t ready to ring in the New Year with all the other fun NYE events on offer.

The Best New Year Events in Inverness 2026

Hogmanay at An Seòmar
An Seòmar, Inverness
Ring in 2027 in true Highland style at An Seòmar’s Hogmanay celebration. With their iconic blend of Celtic rock and ceilidh vibes, this is the perfect soundtrack to welcome the new year.

Johnny Foxes Countdown to the New Year
Johnny Foxes Pub, Inverness
Looking for a lively, no-frills celebration? Head to Johnny Foxes, a local favourite. Enjoy live tunes from In Cahoots, dance your heart out, and celebrate with stovies when the bells strike midnight. No tickets are needed, but get there early to ensure entry—it fills up fast.

A special Highland Hogmanay
Kingsmill Hotel, Inverness
Ring in the New Year with warmth, flavour, and foot-stomping tradition at this Hogmanay Fling. Visit The Kingsmills in Inverness for a delicious 3-course Hogmanay dinner, followed by a real hooley dancing into the wee hours.

Good to know: Book a stay at a cosy Inverness hotel or B&B to soak up the local charm and recover from a night of ceilidh dancing.

8. Liverpool New Year Fireworks 2026 - Titanic Hotel Liverpool

Liverpool fireworks on new year

Get the best seats in the house to the incredible firework display in Liverpool. The classic viewing location is the Pier Head itself, directly in front of the Three Graces (the Royal Liver Building, Cunard Building, and Port of Liverpool Building) facing the Mersey.

The views are truly stunning as the fireworks reflect on the water and there are plenty of nice bars and restaurants nearby if you get too cold.

The Best Things to Do at New Year in Liverpool 2026:

The Waterfront Fireworks Show
Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool
Head to the Royal Albert Dock or the Pier Head for prime viewing of the fireworks display. This show is all about setting the tone for 2027, with a dramatic light show over the water that’s sure to leave you in awe.

The Cunard Presents The Ultimate New Years Eve Ball
The Bentley. Liverpool
Ring in 2027 in unparalleled style at Liverpool's most exclusive New Years Eve celebration. Champagne, decadent buffet and excellent live entertainment; count down to midnight and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of The Three Graces and the shimmering waterfront.

Concert Square and the Ropewalks
Varied locations, Liverpool
Liverpool's main party zone; notable bars include Heebie Jeebies, the Krazyhouse, Soho, Walkabout, and a dozen others packed close together in the small lanes between Bold Street and Berry Street. NYE here is dense, loud, and built around drink-and-dance party programming. Most venues sell advance NYE tickets, so plan accordingly.

9. Manchester New Year Fireworks 2026 - Various Displays

manchester 2025 is one of the best new year's eve events 2025
Next up on our list of the best New Year fireworks in the UK for 2026 is Manchester. While Manchester doesn’t do an official council-organised fireworks display in the way London does, a number of unofficial displays from hotels, venues, and buildings around the city centre typically pop-up around midnight.

Cathedral Gardens has historically been a gathering point for people wanting to watch whatever goes off, and the area around Exchange Square and the Arndale tower usually gives you a decent view of whatever’s happening across the skyline.

The biggest NYE event in Manchester takes place in the city centre on St Peter’s Square, promising tons of fun with live entertainment leading up to the New Year 2026.

The Best Things to Do at New Year in Manchester 2026:

The Warehouse Project
Depot Mayfeild, Manchester
The ravers are probably already aware of this one. Manchester's infamous club night is also running on New Year 2026 with DJs still to be announced.

New Year's Eve 2026: Simply The Best
The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester
Simply the Best is a spectacular New Year’s Eve concert celebrating the greatest hits of the 1980s and 1990s. Featuring a full live band and outstanding West End vocalists, this is a triumphant send-off to the year and a joyful welcome to the next.

10. Newcastle New Year Fireworks 2026 – Newcastle Quayside

newcastle new year fireworks over the river
Ring in the New Year with style on Newcastle’s stunning Quayside. The iconic Tyne Bridge provides the perfect backdrop for the fireworks at midnight. For families, there’s an early evening fireworks show at 6 pm so little ones can join in the celebrations too.

The Quayside also offers a variety of riverside bars and restaurants where you can grab a front-row seat for the show. Remember to arrive early for the best viewing spots – it gets busy!

The Best NYE Events in Newcastle 2026

Howaymanay Party Village
Quayside, Newcastle
The signature ticket-only New Year's Eve celebration returns to the Newcastle Quayside. It features live music across two stages, DJs, roaming street performers, food and drink stalls, and a midnight fireworks finale over the River Tyne.

Boulevard NYE Cabaret Show
Boulevard Newcastle
Laugh and cheer your way into the new year with a fabulous drag performance.

11. York New Year Fireworks 2026 – Various Displays

york fireworks at new year at a castle

York city centre does not host a public municipal New Year's Eve fireworks display. However, select local venues and nearby locations host private or ticketed celebrations featuring fireworks.

The Best NYE Events in York 2026

New Year's Eve House Party 2026/27
Middlethorpe Hall, York
A warm welcome awaits for you to celebrate the turn of the year at historic Middlethorpe Hall. Expect delicious fine dining, wines, and a firework display and dance into the early hours of 2027!

New Year's Eve Party at Carlton Towers
Carlton Towers Estate
Welcome the New Year in spectacular style at Carlton Towers for an unforgettable evening of fine dining and celebration. As midnight approaches, raise a glass with a celebratory toast, and join in a rousing rendition of Auld Lang Syne accompanied by live bagpipes.

12. Nottingham New Year Fireworks 2026 – Old Market Square

Celebrate the arrival of 2027 in Nottingham’s vibrant city centre, where Old Market Square transforms into the heart of the festivities. The main firework display kicks off at midnight, but you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained beforehand, including live music, food stalls, and a bustling winter wonderland. Entry is free, making it a brilliant budget-friendly option for a fun night out.

The Best NYE Events in Nottingham 2026

NYE at Rock City
Rock City Main Hall
Party all night to live bands and DJs at Nottingham’s iconic music venue.

New Year’s Eve Wicked Ball
Colwick Hall Hotel
Welcome 2027 in spectacular style at Colwick Hall Hotel’s Wicked Ball, an enchanting evening of elegant dining, dazzling entertainment and midnight fireworks in one of Nottingham’s most beautiful historic venues.

13. Brighton New Year Fireworks 2026 – Brighton Beach

brighton new year fireworks
For a seaside twist on your New Year celebrations, head to Brighton Beach. The Brighton fireworks display over the sea creates a breathtaking (and cold) NYE in the UK, with the iconic Brighton Pier adding to the charm. Pair the show with fish and chips, or sip a cocktail at one of the trendy beachfront bars.

Note: an outdoor fireworks displayed is not guaranteed for 2026, largely depending on the weather conditions. 

The Best NYE Events in Brighton 2026

New Years Eve at Metropole Bar
DoubleTree by Hilton Metropole Bar, Brighton
Dress to impress and prepare for a dazzling Moulin Rouge & Paris-themed night of dining and celebration. This glamorous New Year’s Eve celebration includes entertainment, a three-course dinner, welcome drink, half a bottle of house wine per person and fizz at midnight.

An Evening with Cherry Bomb at Nostos
Nostos Hove, Brighton
Enjoy Greek cuisine and culture for the 4th edition of this Brighton New Year's celebration. With Cherry Bomb bringing the energy and Nostos providing the perfect setting for the festivities, this promises to be a brilliant way to welcome 2027.

14. Plymouth New Year Fireworks 2026 – Home Park Stadium

visit plymouth at new year for the fireworks

Watch Plymouth’s waterfront light up at midnight with a spectacular fireworks display at theHome Park Stadium. This free family-friendly event is a favourite among locals, featuring tasty snacks and amazing live music leading up to the countdown. Arrive early to secure the best views.

The Best NYE Events in Plymouth 2026

Plymouth Winter Wonderland
Central Park, Plymouth
Running from 20 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, this family-friendly carnival is a great way to ring in 2027. Children and adults will enjoy food and drink stalls, an ice rinks, and other fair activties to partake in.

Popworld New Years Eve Event 2026 Plymouth
Popworld, Plymouth
This is all-out, sparkle-soaked NYE party is packed with pop throwbacks, the latest chart bangers, and the kind of high-energy fun you’ll be talking about well into next year.

Which of these UK New Year's Eve Fireworks Will You Watch?

new year fireworks in the uk
No matter where you choose to welcome 2027, each of these UK destinations promises tons of fun and breathtaking New Year's Eve fireworks, joyous crowds, and cracking entertainment. So, get your nearest and dearest together and make this New Year's Eve a night to remember!

Gift a New Year's Eve Hotel with our Hotel Vouchers
Hotelgift

Give someone the taste of something new this New Year's Eve by gifting them a hotel stay. When you buy a Hotelgift voucher for them, they can redeem it on over 750,000 incredible hotels in the UK and worldwide. From top hotel chains like:

There really is no better hotel gift card in the UK. All you need to do is add a hotel voucher value between £25 to £10,000 (or in multiple other currencies), add a photo, write a message and send it as a hotel e gift card, PDF hotel voucher or a luxury hotel gift card sent in the post.

The versatility of our hotel gifts makes them perfect for every occasion and recipient!