In a rut about what to do on New Year’s Eve this year… again? Yearning to do something fresh, something a little different? Want a quirky idea for you and your date that won’t break the bank? We’ve got your back!

You don’t have to spend £150+ for entry to a Gatsby inspired NYE ball to make it a memorable night. Or, if shivering in the cold, watching fireworks whilst cramped shoulder to shoulder, as you attempt to romantically kiss your loved one, on the hour, with half of London cheering down your neck doesn’t appeal to you, then check out our list of alternative NYE plans…

1. NYE Open House by Near & Far

If you’re anyone who’s anyone, then you’ll know about this brand-new space in South London – Peckham Levels. If you haven’t, prepare to be shocked: a car park (yes, car park) has been miraculously transformed into a cultural hub for all things creative. We’re talking art, music, fashion and most importantly, food and drink. Near & Far are hosting their ‘Open House’ NYE event, which includes an array of scrumptious street food and cocktails galore.

Photo Credit: Peckham Levels

The bar sits on the penultimate level of the car park, Level 6, allowing for spectacular panoramic views of London for you to enjoy whilst armed with a Rhubarb Martini in one hand and a swanky glass of bubbly in the other. The DJs will be playing a selection of soul, disco, house, R’n’B and Afrobeats. So, with a kooky setting of vintage furniture, palm trees and disco balls; you can boogie the night away, or cosy up on a sofa with your date to watch the city’s stunning fireworks in awe.

Want to know the best part? Entry is absolutely free. RSVP here…

2. Pop Brixton hosts ‘The Get Down’

Anyone seen the Netflix series? Well, you’re in for a treat. At Pop Brixton, the undeniably funky venue in the undeniably cool Brixton area, you can dance the night away to 70s classics and hip-hop tunes. NYE at Pop has a very good line up indeed and you won’t be disappointed; Nicky Siano, Gospeloke and DJ Russ Rickey are all on the bill – so expect to get down to some Sister Sledge, Earth Wind & Fire, Grandmaster Flash and much more. This NYE night is for the couple full of funk, soul and glamour. Prepare to dance, prepare to drink and prepare to be thrown back into the magic of the 70s.

Secure your ticket here…

3. NYE Wonderball Party in Shoreditch

One of the more spenny events from our list now, but £20 for a night packed to the brim with Wonderball table fun seems worth it, don’t you think? Competitive couples among you, step forward! Wonderball has been developed by the folks behind Bounce – the popular ping pong bars found in Farringdon and Old Street.

Photo Credit: Bounce Shoreditch/ Design My Night

The new and improved bat and ball game evening is immersive, interactive and enticing. Each Wonderball table is lit with UV colours and has been transformed into a computer game – a brand new way to play the night away. Team this with retro tunes, pizzas and cocktails, then you’ve got yourself a Wonder-full New Year’s Eve.

Last few tickets available here… 

4. Do the Karaoke Cokey @ The Star of Kings

Want to bond with your date over your mutual love of music, a mutual love of (bad) singing or a mutual love of rock? Then prepare to impress your other half at a karaoke night. But, we’re not talking just any karaoke night. It’s got to be Do the Karaoke Cokey at The Star of Kings. Described by Time Out as “One of London’s finest WTF experiences!”, it’s difficult to pass this one up.

The night will feature 3 floors of karaoke and the most unusual part is that ‘Rockaoke’ will be there. What is ‘Rockaoke’? I hear you ask. Well, Rockaoke is a live karaoke band that allows the audience to fulfil their dream of joining a rock band on stage to perform. Ever wanted to sing with a live rock band? Now is your chance!

Tickets are currently only a fiver, so grab them quick here…

5. The Prince of Wales Cinema

So, this one is for the ‘old beyond your years’ couple. Just kidding – we get it; sometimes the NYE hype is just not worth it. The faff, the stress, the expectations. Rid yourself of it all and just go to the cinema. Easy. The Prince of Wales cinema is playing ‘When Harry Met Sally’ at 6:30pm this year, so you can be back at your house before bumping into the crowds that come out in full force onto the streets on London. Plus, each ticket comes with a glass of bubbly and a party popper.

So, if you’re a ‘night in’ kind of couple, then a cinema trip on NYE is perfect… comfy chairs, a big screen and tasty snacks whilst you snuggle up to watch a classic. A home away from home.

Tickets available here… 

Side Note: If you’re not based in London, don’t panic! We’ve picked a couple of wildcard options for those of you who are situated elsewhere.

6. BRIGHTON: The Fever Club at Rialto Theatre

The weird and wonderful Brighton always has an alternative night to offer and, this New Year’s Eve, it comes in the form of a wacky circus. ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’ will feature mystical creatures, sequined performers and sinister clowns.

The soundtrack to this night will include Northern soul and disco classics, along with a sprinkle of Latin music. This night is for the couple who goes all out – fancy dress is encouraged and you can expect to be out until the early hours of the morning (5am to be exact).

Get your tickets here…

7. MANCHESTER: PARTY LIKE IT’S 1997 at All Star Lanes

Any bowling fans out there? Manchester’s got your back. Head down to All Star Lanes for an evening of food and music, as you bowl 2017 away. This night is perfect for those of you who aren’t keen on getting sweaty in Shindig. So, why not try something a little different?

If you’re a Brit pop fanatic, a glow stick goddess, or just really like winning; then there’s something for you at All Star Lanes this New Year’s Eve.

Here’s where to get your tickets…

So, now you have a whole lot of New Year’s Eve options, all you’ve got to do is pick one. Now, go forth and party the last days of 2017 away, bring on 2018 already!