14 unmissable New Year’s Eve events in the UK for 2025

As we approach the end of another year, you might be planning how you will wave off 2025 and welcome in 2026. Whether you want to go all out or keep it low-key, there are plenty of exciting New Year’s Eve events happening in the North of England and Scotland.

Need a little inspiration? Check out our top picks for celebrating New Year’s Eve with a bang. From family-friendly festivities like firework displays and live music shows to fancier adult-only affairs, there are so many fabulous New Year’s Eve events in the UK to choose from.

1. The Hogmanay Street Party in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is renowned for its vibrant Hogmanay celebrations, making it the perfect place to ring in the new year. The Hogmanay Street Party is set to take place in the heart of the city from 8pm onwards on the 31st of December, and entry tickets cost £33. As one of Europe’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations, you’ll get to see the sky above Edinburgh Castle illuminated with hundreds of colourful fireworks, whilst treating yourself to something delicious from one of the many food and drink stalls.



2. HowayManay in Newcastle

There are so many New Year's Eve events in the UK, but Newcastle’s HowayManay event is one not to be missed. From 8:30pm, the Quayside will be bustling with incredible live music across two stages, roaming street performers and tons of tasty food stalls and lively bars serving up festive cheer for you to welcome in the new year in style. Tickets start from £6.



3. Love is in the Air at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall

For an unforgettable night, why not check out Bridgewater Hall’s spectacular Love is in the Air event? The fun starts with an LED dancefloor in the foyer with entertainment from DJ Wayne before the talented Bridgewater Hall Concert Orchestra perform live versions of the best classic hits from throughout the ages, from the likes of Barry Manilow, Beyonce, The Beatles and more! Tickets start from £40.00, but it promises to be a night to remember.



4. Stonehaven Fireballs in Stonehaven

Another great Scottish event you won’t want to miss is the Stonehaven Fireballs, which is held (unsurprisingly) in Stonehaven. This 150-year-old tradition involves the symbolic burning of bad spirits from the old year ready to start the new year afresh. The High Street parade is a sight to behold, where more than 40 men and women take to the street with swinging fireballs. It’s a mesmerising spectacle that draws in an audience from around the country. Best of all, there’s no entry fee, so anyone can go and witness this unique and captivating ceremony.



5. Warehouse Project in Manchester

An institution of the Manchester party scene, this New Year’s Eve, the Warehouse Project at Depot Mayfield will be one for the house music fans. Promising a night of world-class music from some of the best-known DJs, this all-night party is likely to sell out.



6. NYE at The Shankly in Liverpool

There are some unmissable events on in Liverpool this New Year’s Eve. And, if you’re looking for a glamourous experience where you can dress to impress, then the Gala dinner at The Shankly Hotel is the perfect choice. This exquisite event will take place on the 31st of December, starting at 7pm. For £99 per person, you can enjoy a night of elegance and style, complete live entertainment and a DJ.

 

7. Gaze up at fantastic fireworks in the Lake District

If you’d prefer something more relaxing after the hectic Christmas period, escape the hustle and bustle with a New Year’s Eve break in the serene Lake District. The breathtaking National Park is an ideal spot to visit in late December due to its lush scenery, cosy accommodation options and wonderful range of wholesome dining venues. Windermere is a particularly popular choice and can be easily accessed by rail via Oxenholme Lake District station.



8. The Night Afore Disco Party in Edinburgh

For those who prefer to stay in on New Year’s Eve, why not consider celebrating the night before instead? The Night Afore Disco Party on the 30th of December is a great pick for those looking for a fun event suitable for older children (12+), and tickets start from £32.50. This year, the party will feature Scottish folk and Celtic punk trio Peat & Diesel, who will play Hogmanay for the first time. Joined by accordionist Ruairidh MacLean ‘RuMac’, the celebration is sure to be an unmatched evening of Scottish music.



9. The Ashton Lane Hogmanay Street Party in Glasgow

If great music, delicious street food and a buzzing atmosphere are on your NYE agenda, get yourself down to the Ashton Lane Hogmanay Street Party in Glasgow. Tickets are £45 so, dance the night away on the cobbled streets, treat yourself to a delicious meal from one of the many food stalls, and toast to the new year in style.



10. SCO New Year Gala at Usher Hall in Edinburgh

Looking for a classy way to ring in the New Year in Edinburgh? The SCO New Year Gala at Usher Hall is your ticket to a night of elegance and entertainment! Enjoy a stunning performance from the Scottish Chamber Orchestra set in the beautiful surroundings of this iconic venue. With a lively atmosphere, delightful music and tickets from just £15, it’s the perfect way to celebrate with friends or that special someone.



11. Raver Tots New Year’s Eve at Freight Island in Manchester

Prefer to celebrate at midday instead or midnight? This family-friendly party is the one for you! With fabulous live performances, parachute games, face painting and a brilliant community vibe, Raver Tots is the perfect way to round off the year with your little ones. Tickets start at £15 and babies under 18 months can enter for free.



12. Discos for Grown ups at the Engine Shed in Wetherby

Ready to dance your way into the new year? Discos for Grown Ups at the Engine Shed  in Wetherby is your spot! This isn’t just any party, it’s a retro-themed night filled with classic hits that’ll have you grooving like it’s the ‘80s, ‘90s and ‘00s all over again. Spectacular vibes, fabulous drinks and plenty of space to bust a move – it’s the perfect place to let loose and celebrate the closing of 2025. Early bird tickets start from just £10.



13. Boomchikkaboom Family Party at the Cambridge Street Collective in Sheffield

For a New Year’s Eve event in Sheffield that’s suitable for the whole family, the Boomchikkaboom Family Party at the Cambridge Street Collective is just the ticket. With loads of exciting activities, live entertainment and mouth-watering food options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let the kids dance, play and make memories, while you sit back and soak it all up. This event is also super affordable, with tickets costing just £3 per person.



14. Candlelit Concert at St. Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh

Rounding out our list with the most serene and tranquil of our recommendations, the Candlelit Concert at St Giles’ Cathedral is a beautiful way to see out the year. The concert begins at 6pm and lasts 90 minutes, meaning there’s still time to head to a more raucous party after if you so wish! With ticket prices starting from £24, book now for an evening of stunning music in a breathtaking candle-lit setting.

With so much happening across our network, it’s hard to choose how to celebrate. But, if something on our list has taken your fancy, book your train now to avoid disappointment. For more inspiration this festive season, check out our guides on the best Christmas light trails and the best Christmas days out.