Trafalgar Square

Designed by John Nash in the 1820s and completed in the 1840s, Trafalgar Square commemorates the British naval victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The square is anchored by the 169-foot Nelson's Column, honoring Admiral Horatio Nelson, who died in the battle. The column is flanked by four massive bronze lions designed by Sir Edwin Landseer. Beyond its historical monuments, the square is a living, breathing part of London's civic life. It is flanked by the majestic National Gallery to the north, offering world-class art, and the historic St Martin-in-the-Fields church to the northeast. The square's beautiful fountains, added in 1845 and later redesigned by Sir Edwin Lutyens, provide a picturesque backdrop for the millions of visitors who pass through each year.

Reasons to Visit

• To see the iconic Nelson's Column and the famous bronze lions up close.
• To visit the National Gallery, home to one of the greatest collections of Western European paintings in the world.
• To view the contemporary art installations on the Fourth Plinth.
• To experience the vibrant atmosphere, street performers, and cultural events in the heart of London.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid buying birdseed to feed the pigeons; feeding them has been banned since 2003 to keep the square clean.
• Avoid visiting during major protests or demonstrations if you prefer a quiet experience, as the square is a traditional site for public rallies.
• Be cautious of unlicensed street vendors and distraction pickpockets in crowded areas.

Local Transportation Tips

Trafalgar Square is exceptionally well-connected by public transport. Charing Cross station (Bakerloo and Northern lines, plus National Rail) is just steps away. Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines) and Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines) are within a short walking distance. Numerous iconic red double-decker buses also stop right at the edges of the square, making it easily accessible from anywhere in London.

Travel Etiquette

• Stand on the right when using escalators in the nearby Tube stations.
• Respect the monuments; do not climb on the statues or enter the fountain pools.
• Wait patiently in queues (lines), as queuing is a highly respected cultural norm in the UK.

Recommended Age Group

Trafalgar Square is a versatile destination suitable for visitors of all ages.

• Babies (0-2 years): Recommended. The square is flat and paved, making it easy to navigate with a stroller, though crowds can be dense.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will enjoy the sheer scale of the lions, the fountains, and the lively street performers.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The central location, proximity to West End shopping, and vibrant atmosphere appeal strongly to teenagers.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Adults can appreciate the rich history, architecture, and immediate access to world-class museums and theaters.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The area is highly accessible with plenty of seating around the fountains and step-free access to the National Gallery.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The square is fully pedestrianized and paved, offering smooth surfaces for wheelchair users.
• There is step-free access from the square to the National Gallery via the Getty Entrance.
• Accessible public toilets are available on the west side of the square (near the café).
• Charing Cross station has some accessibility features, but checking the TfL (Transport for London) step-free guide is recommended before travel.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the bronze lions guarding Nelson's Column were cast from the metal of cannons recovered from sunken French and Spanish ships after the Battle of Trafalgar?

Cool Statistics

• Nelson's Column stands exactly 169 feet and 3 inches (51.6 meters) tall.
• The square was officially named Trafalgar Square in 1830.
• Since 1947, a Norwegian spruce has been gifted to London by the city of Oslo every Christmas and erected in the square as a token of gratitude for British support during World War II.