2012 it’s a leap year!

We’re feeling rather decrepit, we have eaten and drunk our way through December and now we’re expected to party some more…is New Year as a night overrated?!

Well... seeing as the winter is still looking rather long and we have an extra day in February to get through, we thought we’d give you some inspiration and some information on last minute parties except that it really is too last minute so here are just a few hints!

London – stay away from central London it attracts more than 250,000 people. Really you should all be away in the sun having left on Boxing Day or be in the country with loads of wine and cheese!

If you have decided to brave London then the party along the southbank is the place to be.

A stellar line-up of guests, including Gabby Young & Other Animals and Eliza Carthy's Motown Ceilidh, grace The Clore Ballroom and foyers at Royal Festival Hall for a unique night of live music, DJs, silent disco, entertainment and all manner of fun.

Other acts announced include The Destroyers, Moulettes, Trans Siberian Marching Band, Revere, DJ Moneyshot, Bellatrix and Dizraeli, Babyhead, The La De Dahs, Jess Bryant and Piff The Magic Dragon.

Meanwhile over in Queen Elizabeth Hall, the all-singing, all-dancing, much-lauded pop parade that is Guilty Pleasures high-kicks its way into 2012 with an unashamedly glorious mix of pop, power ballads and disco stompers. With a show packed full of DJs and general ecstatic delight, come join the revelry in the heart of London.

Shortly before midnight the party moves outside to an exclusive terrace overlooking the Thames, where you can enjoy London's spectacular fireworks away from the crowds, weather permitting.

Edinburgh – Hogmanay the main event may have sold out but this is the UK city which takes its New Year celebrating seriously. Get up to Edinburgh and revel through the winding, steep streets up to the castle and back to Princes street. Watch the fireworks sore over Arthurs seat and try a deep fried mars bar before the diet begins. We recommend the bars and clubs in Grassmarket or George street
Start the year with a bracing coastal walk and lunch at the Sheeps Head.

Happy New Year from all of us at Juliet Dunn xxx