watch the London New Year's Eve Fireworks

staff reporter,London(wp/es): 2016 is almost here and as ever, the best way to see it in is with a bang. The spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks simply aren’t the same from behind the screen, and tickets for the main viewing spots have long sold out. Still, you can’t charge for looking up the sky (yet), so below are the best places to enjoy London’s glorious celebrations for free. Remember, travel costs nothing on New Year’s Eve and be sure to plan the best way to get home after your evening out. Fields Though many of these sit a little further away from the main display, the views they offer across the city mean you’ll take in all the private displays cracking across the skyline. Parliament Hill and Hampstead Heath Parliament Hill offers some gorgeous views, even if the spectacle is a fair way off. Still, it’s a beautiful spot and there’ll be plenty of folks with their own fireworks, too, so you’ll be spoiled for choice. Or wonder further into Hampstead Heath, which holds its own as a haven away from the city. Looking for a drink before hand? The Bull & Last, The Roebuck, The Magdala and The Southampton Arms are all solid options. Primrose Hill At 76m up, the top of Primrose Hill offers near unrivalled views across London, so even before the fireworks kick off, grab a hipflask and a bottle of champagne, and enjoy London all lit up. Get there early as it gets very busy. If you’re looking for somewhere to pop in beforehand, try the The Sir Richard Steele (a little walk away), The Princess of Wales or The Lansdowne (who are running a set menu for the evening). Last year, crowds left behind a significant amount of litter, ruining New Year's Day for the park workers. Don't be that person – take home whatever you bring, Hilly Fields Again, it’s a little further out, but Hilly Fields in Brockley are a pleasant spot. There are local fireworks happening too, if you want something closer. For a drink nearby, try The Talbot or The Ladywell Tavern. Nearest tube: Get the train instead, and head to Ladyfield, Brockley or Crofton Park. Bridges The iconic Tower Bridge has a stunning view of all the snap, crackle and pop, with a marvellous, cheery atmosphere, but it gets increasingly busy year on year. Southwark Bridge and Millennium Bridge are closer and offer better views, but expect them to be rib-crushingly packed other side Cannon Street and the east side of Monument both sit close by to the official, ticketed viewing areas, so you’ll get most of views without shelling out. Expect them to be very busy.