London rings in 2026 as fireworks light the Thames and frost grips the capital

Londoners stepped into the new year with cold hands, raised glasses and the familiar glow of fireworks along the Thames, as London New Year’s Eve fireworks drew vast crowds despite one of the coldest nights of the winter so far.

Tens of thousands lined the river to watch the capital’s annual display, wrapping up against sub-zero temperatures as Big Ben marked the arrival of 2026. The cold did little to thin the crowds, with city centres across the UK busy well past midnight as revellers chose celebration over comfort.

In London alone, around 100,000 people gathered along the Thames to watch a tightly choreographed 12-minute display that sent more than 12,000 fireworks into the sky. This year’s show included nods to England’s women’s sporting successes, with tributes to both the Lionesses and the Red Roses woven into the spectacle.

Cold weather fails to cool celebrations

Across the country, celebrations continued despite freezing conditions. Manchester’s St Peter’s Square, Edinburgh’s Arthur’s Seat and Newcastle’s Quayside all drew large crowds, while fireworks also lit up Brighton Beach, Birmingham’s Centenary Square and Inverness’s Northern Meeting Park.

In the capital, Primrose Hill remained closed after safety concerns, following last year’s overcrowding at the popular Camden viewpoint. Elsewhere, ticketed viewing areas were supplemented by informal gatherings on bridges, pavements and boats, offering alternative vantage points of London’s skyline.

By morning, many revellers were waking to sore heads and icy pavements. Temperatures dipped as low as minus 8C in parts of the UK overnight, with London and the south-east remaining close to freezing through New Year’s Day.

Snow warnings follow the celebrations

Forecasters are now warning that the cold spell may deepen. The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for snow and ice from the early hours of Friday 2nd January, covering London, the south-east, parts of the West Midlands and much of Wales.

Snow is also possible in northern England, Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland over the coming days. According to official forecasts, the wintry conditions could last well into the first week of the year.

Health authorities are urging caution. The UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber cold health alert for northern England, warning that prolonged low temperatures could increase pressure on health and care services, particularly for older people and those with existing health conditions.

A familiar start to a British winter

Despite the warnings, the mood across the capital remained upbeat as Londoners embraced a familiar combination of spectacle and stoicism. Bars and pubs stayed busy into the early hours, with many choosing to mark the start of the year outdoors before retreating into the warmth.

As the city settles back into routine, attention now turns to the days ahead, with commuters advised to take care on icy roads and pavements and to keep an eye on weather updates as winter tightens its grip.

For more independent reporting on London, its public events and the forces shaping life in the city, follow EyeOnLondon.

Follow us on:

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!

We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!