To leave a party before midnight?

[SucculentCandle]

We've been invited to our neighbors this evening (I'm not in the UK). I've got my parents as well as in-laws staying, all of whom have been invited too.
My Dad can't seem to stay awake past 8pm, I don't want to stay up until midnight and I really hate the hugging part of midnight.

Would it be rude to make our excuses and leave early?

I thought not, but as I'm typing this I think it probably is rude.

Nope, not rude.

I know I'd secretly be delighted if my guests disappeared earlier rather than later but not everyone is as unsociable as me.

I'm kind of hoping my Dad nods off so we "have to take him home".

Not rude. You thank them, say you enjoyed yourself but like to see in the bells in your own home. Sorted.

I think it would be polite to make it clear you won't be staying till midnight, at the earliest opportunity. So when you arrive, tell your host you are all only staying for a short while.

We have very much this deal with our neighbours, we take it in turns to host New Years, but everyone heads off about 10.30. It seems to work well - no one gets fed up with each other or overtired.

No, not rude. Make your excuses - headache or early start - and go off to bed.

Not rude .

Look after you & don't feel guilty.

I did this today but made sure everyone knew in advance that we wouldn't be staying until midnight. In the end, a few people left with us.

Thank you, everybody, that's very reassuring.

I would lay the groundwork when you arrive, or before. “Oh thanks so much for the invite, lovely to be able to pop over, and start the evening off right! Don’t know about you but I can never stay awake long enough to make a night is it! Haha!’
Also take generous amount of wine / food etc.