Need tips for London New Year's Eve
 

My daughter and her boyfriend (both in the early 30's and coming from US) will be in London for New Years EVe. They would like to do something special and fun. Any and all recommendations would be so appreciated! H

I guess it depends on what they consider "special" and "fun". Last year we went to a great concert at the Barbican, a sort of Viennese New Year's. The fireworks over the Thames and the London Eye are spectacular -- albeit in the midst of a couple "billion" people. Many pubs do a set price for the evening, but I think that would be more for a "neighborhood" type gathering.

NYE in London is tough. The area along the Thames and near Trafalgar Square will be packed and not all that much fun.

A concert is a great idea - but maybe not quite what a couple of "early 30's" are looking for.

Where are they staying? And what sort of budget do they have for that night? The "posh" hotels and restaurants will be VERY expensive. The best bet is to find a pub near their hotel and book seats.

Kylie at the Wembley Arena - only £65 per ticket

In general, avoid being anywhere near Trafalgar Sq or along Thames for that matter. You can get the best view of fireworks from somewhere further and elavated--my favourite place is Primrose Hill.
Dine early and again avoid central part of town. Hard to see what they would consider special and fun... They can always check Time Out upon arrival.

Has anyone considered that a couple of early 30 somethings might find mixing in the crowds at Trafalgar or along the Thames as "special and fun"? I have it on good authority from about a million people that many think Times Square is just that on New Year's Eve.

Sorry about posting two same threads. I didn't think the first one went through. My daughter is checking as to exact hotel but she seems to think they are staying in Piccadilly Square area. Money isn't a big problem here although something great and less expensive would work just fine(if you get my drift) Thanks for all your responses so far and keep them coming!! H

Assuming you mean Piccadilly Circus - IMHO they should get the heck away from there as early as possible on NYE. The area will be a madhouse.

My daughter just emailed me to say that they are staying at the SOHO Hotel in London. The reviews on it look pretty good. I suppose the hotel itself will have some nice New Years activities but doo those of you who are familiar with the area around hotel do you have any recommendations? It is in the artsy district--something Mews. Thanks for any help-H

Richmond Mews - just off Oxford st. not really an "arty" place although there are plenty of TV companies etc.

It will be very busy at NYE. It's also the heart of Londons gay scene - so it will draw a lot of gay people in for the evening.