The best fireworks viewpoints for New Year’s Eve in Greater Manchester

The weather right now might be wet and dull – but that isn’t going to stop New Year’s Eve from happening.

Earlier today, Manchester Council announced that its city centre fireworks display, which will be taking place in St Peter’s Square, will be going ahead as planned – despite a number of similar events up and down the country being forced to be cancelled due to the bad weather.

There will also be a number of organised fireworks displays taking place across pubs, sports halls, and community centres throughout Greater Manchester, whilst the likes of Freight Island and Dukes 92 will also be getting involved in their own set of illuminated displays at midnight.

With so many public and private displays taking place across the 10 boroughs, it can be rewarding to head to a vantage point and watch the fireworks light up the skies above Greater Manchester. Depending where you are, you might be able to catch sight of them even if you’re not able to attend the designated events themselves too.

We’ve rounded up some of the best view and vantage points across Greater Manchester below. It’s important to make sure you stay safe in the dark and be considerate when driving and parking up at rural locations.

If you’re visiting somewhere remote don’t go alone and bring a torch with you. And, of course, with the unprecedented weather in tow, you might want to expect to come back leaving disappointed if a number of events near you do end up being cancelled.

Manchester Council will be hosting a free fireworks event at St Peter’s Square for New Year’s Eve
(Image: Manchester Evening News)

St Peter’s Square, Manchester

With the council’s fireworks extravaganza still taking place, you could head to St Peter’s Square for their free display – which kicks off at 10pm.

With attendance for around 20,000 revellers, fireworks will be released from the roof of Manchester Central Library in a first for this year’s event. There will be a DJ and hosted live stage with an official countdown to midnight to welcome in 2025 in style.

If you fancy going, here’s everything you need to know. As a result of the event, no trams will be running through St Peter’s Square from 8pm.

Werneth Low, Tameside

Located on the border of Stockport and Tameside, Werneth Low offers panoramic views of Greater Manchester. It’s a popular viewpoint to see the Manchester skyline from and with good reason. Combine it with a visit to the Hare & Hounds Inn, which is a popular spot for a sundowner.

Rivington Pike Tower and Belmont Road, Bolton

Rivington Pike Tower, Rivington
(Image: Colin Lane/Liverpool Echo)

Situated on Winter Hill, Rivington Pike is known for its incredible views of the north west. Probably a spot more suited for earlier in the day when you may catch an eager display or two as it’s a remote spot you need to access on foot. There’s parking available at Lower House Car Park (BL6 7SD) and from there it’s around a half hour walk.

Another spot nearby where you can park up and see the fireworks is Wilderswood Car Park on the corner of George’s Lane and Old Rake. It is very small so be warned it can get busy.

Tandle Hill, Oldham

During the day Tandle Hill viewpoint has incredible views across Manchester, Oldham and Rochdale, and when it’s clear you can even see as far as Cheshire and North Wales. As darkness falls at this time of year it’s also a great spot to see fireworks from.

Greenbooth Reservoir, Rochdale

Nestled among the hills above Rochdale, Greenbooth Reservoir offers breathtaking views of the city. While it’s a lovely spot to visit during the day, it’s also an excellent vantage point to watch fireworks from on a clear evening. You can park at Greenbooth Reservoir Car Park on Forsyth Lane (OL12 7TL) where you can look out across Greater Manchester.

Hartshead Pike, Tameside

Hartshead Pike, Tameside
(Image: Sean Hansford | Manchester Evening News)

Perhaps one of the most well-known fireworks viewing points in Greater Manchester, Tameside’s Hartshead Pike offers stunning views across the city region. The Grade II-listed tower which sits on the hill was originally built in the 18th century as a warning beacon for local garrisons. Get there early if you want a good spot as it does get busy.

Peel Tower Holcombe Hill, Bury

From Holcombe Hill you can see right across Bury and Ramsbottom, as well as all the way to Manchester’s city skyline. The tower itself opened in 1852 and stands at 128ft tall. Parking is available at Lumb Carr Road Car Park (BL8 4NN).

Image Credits and Reference: https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/best-fireworks-viewpoints-new-years-30687858