I haven't been to a pub for new year since probably 93 or 94. Back then you didn't have to pay to get in a pub. You paid 50p for a plastic glass that you carried with you from very crowded pub to very crowded pub. Around 10:30pm my group would get our glasses filled then walk to a village pub (around 30 minute walk). It was much quieter there and a good atmosphere. We knew the landlord so would be allowed to stay for the lock in after the non-regulars were kicked out at 12:30am.