Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square | Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to Trafalgar Square, one of London’s most iconic and historic landmarks! Nestled in the heart of the city, this public square is a must-visit for anyone exploring the UK’s capital. Named after the legendary Battle of Trafalgar, it stands as a symbol of British naval triumph and resilience. What makes Trafalgar Square truly unique is its blend of history, culture, and vibrant public life.

From the towering Nelson’s Column to the lively street performers and grand events, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply looking to soak in the atmosphere of a bustling city square, Trafalgar Square is a destination that captivates and inspires.

Location

Trafalgar Square is located in the City of Westminster, Central London, at the junction of Charing Cross Road, Whitehall, and The Strand. Its exact address is Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN. To help you orient yourself, it’s just a short walk from other famous landmarks like the National Gallery to the north, St Martins-in-the-Fields Church to the east, and Admiralty Arch to the southwest, which leads to Buckingham Palace. For precise navigation, use GPS or map apps like Google Maps to reach this central hub of the city.

Opening Hours

As a public square, Trafalgar Square is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. However, access to certain areas may be restricted during special events or maintenance, so it’s always a good idea to check the London City Hall website for any updates.

How to Get There

Getting to Trafalgar Square is straightforward due to its central location:

• Public Transport: The closest Tube station is Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern lines), with an entrance/exit directly on the square. Other nearby stations include Embankment (Bakerloo, Northern, District, and Circle lines) and Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines). Charing Cross mainline rail station is about a three-minute walk away. Plan your journey using Transport for London.
• Bus: Numerous bus routes stop near Trafalgar Square, including 3, 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 24, 29, 59, 87, 91, 98, 139, 176, and 453. Check Transport for London bus maps for details.
• Walking: If you’re in central London, Trafalgar Square is easily reachable on foot from areas like Covent Garden, the West End, or Westminster. The scenic walk from Westminster along Whitehall offers views of historic buildings.
• Driving: Parking is limited and expensive in central London. If driving, use apps like Waze for real-time traffic updates, but public transport is recommended for convenience.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Trafalgar Square depends on your preferences:

• For Fewer Crowds: Early mornings or weekdays are ideal, as the square can get busy, especially during summer or holidays.
• For Events: The square hosts numerous events, such as the London Games Festival in April, Vaisakhi in April, Chinese New Year in January or February, and Christmas celebrations in December, including a famous Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
• For Seasonal Beauty: The square is particularly festive during Christmas, with a large Christmas tree gifted from Norway, and during New Year’s Eve, though viewing fireworks may require planning due to crowds.
• For Weather: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild weather, while summer (June-August) provides longer days but can be crowded. Indoor attractions nearby, like the National Gallery, are great for rainy days.

Tickets and Costs

Entry to Trafalgar Square is completely free, as it’s a public space. However, nearby attractions may have admission fees:

• The National Gallery offers free entry to its permanent collection, though special exhibitions may have a cost.
• The National Portrait Gallery, reopened in June 2023, may have fees for certain exhibitions, so check their website for details.
• Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups at nearby attractions, and booking online can sometimes save money. Consider the London Pass for savings on multiple attractions.

What to Expect

Trafalgar Square is a vibrant, open space with plenty to see and do:

• Nelson’s Column: A 169-foot tall column topped with a statue of Admiral Lord Nelson, commemorating the 1805 Battle of Trafalgar.
• Fountains: Two large fountains, recently restored to pristine condition, are popular spots for visitors to relax.
• Statues: Includes statues of King George IV, generals Sir Charles James Napier and Henry Havelock, and the Fourth Plinth, which features rotating contemporary art installations.
• Lions: Four iconic lion statues at the base of Nelson’s Column, sculpted by Sir Edwin Landseer.
• Street Performers: The square is often alive with musicians, artists, and entertainers, adding to its lively atmosphere.
• Events: Trafalgar Square hosts a variety of events, including cultural festivals like Vaisakhi, Chinese New Year, and the London Games Festival, as well as seasonal celebrations like Christmas and New Year’s Eve (Londonist).
• Facilities: Public toilets are available on the west side of the square at the base of the central staircase, open daily from 10am to 6pm with a 20p charge (contactless payment accepted). There are no on-site cafes, but nearby dining options abound.

A typical visit to the square itself takes about 30 minutes to an hour, but you could spend several hours exploring nearby attractions or attending events.

Safety and Accessibility

Trafalgar Square is generally safe, with a constant presence of tourists, locals, and police, especially during events. The square is well-lit at night. For accessibility:

• The square is mostly flat with some steps, but ramps are available for wheelchair users.
• Public toilets are wheelchair accessible.
• Nearby attractions like the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery offer step-free access.
• Families will find the square welcoming, with open spaces for children to explore, though supervision is advised near fountains and traffic. There are no specific children’s activities, but street performers and events can be engaging for kids.

History and Background

Trafalgar Square has been a significant landmark since the 1200s, originally the site of the King’s Mews stabling for Whitehall Palace. In the early 19th century, architect John Nash redeveloped the area into a public square, completed in 1844. It was named to commemorate the British naval victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, where Admiral Lord Nelson died. Nelson’s Column, erected between 1839 and 1843, is the centerpiece, with its four lion statues added in 1867. Fun fact: The square is considered the official center of London, with distances historically measured from Charing Cross. For more details, visit the on-site plaques or the London City Hall website.

Nearby Attractions

Trafalgar Square is surrounded by world-class attractions, making it a perfect starting point for a day out:

• National Gallery: To the north, housing an extensive collection of paintings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, free to enter.
• National Portrait Gallery: Also to the north, reopened in June 2023 after a major redevelopment, showcasing portraits of notable British figures.
• St Martins-in-the-Fields Church: To the east, a historic church offering services, concerts, and a café in its crypt.
• Admiralty Arch and The Mall: To the southwest, leading to Buckingham Palace.
• Buckingham Palace: A short walk via The Mall, the official residence of the British monarch.
• Covent Garden: A few minutes’ walk away, known for its market, street performers, and shops.

Attraction	Distance from Trafalgar Square	Description
National Gallery	Adjacent (north)	Free art museum with works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
National Portrait Gallery	Adjacent (north)	Portraits of notable British figures, reopened in 2023.
St Martins-in-the-Fields	Adjacent (east)	Historic church with concerts and a café.
Buckingham Palace	10-minute walk	Official residence of the British monarch.
Covent Garden	5-minute walk	Vibrant market and entertainment area.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll likely walk a lot, especially if exploring nearby attractions.
• Bring a camera: The square offers iconic photo opportunities, from Nelson’s Column to the fountains.
• Check the weather: London’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack an umbrella or raincoat.
• Be mindful of pigeons: Their numbers have decreased due to efforts like deploying birds of prey, but avoid feeding them.
• Respect the space: As a public and historic site, follow any posted rules and be considerate of others.
• Check for events: Visit Visit London for the latest event schedule to enhance your visit.

FAQs

What are the opening hours of Trafalgar Square?

Trafalgar Square is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Access may be restricted during special events or maintenance, so check London City Hall for updates.

How much does it cost to visit Trafalgar Square?

Entry to the square is free. Nearby attractions like the National Gallery are also free, but the National Portrait Gallery may have fees for certain exhibitions.

Is Trafalgar Square suitable for children?

Yes, it’s family-friendly with open spaces for kids to explore. Street performers and events can be engaging, but supervise children near fountains and traffic.

Are there any discounts available for visiting attractions near Trafalgar Square?

The National Gallery is free, and other attractions may offer student, senior, or group discounts. Check their websites or consider the London Pass for savings.

How long does it take to visit Trafalgar Square?

A quick visit takes 30 minutes to an hour, but exploring nearby attractions or attending events could extend your visit to several hours.

Is photography allowed at Trafalgar Square?

Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged, with many iconic landmarks to capture.

Are there guided tours available at Trafalgar Square?

While there are no official tours of the square itself, many London sightseeing tours include it. Free walking tours often pass through, available via platforms like London Walks.

What’s the best way to get to Trafalgar Square from the city center?

Walk from central areas like Covent Garden, take the Tube to Charing Cross, or use bus routes like 3, 6, 9, or 15. Plan with Transport for London.

Is Trafalgar Square wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the square is mostly flat with ramps available. Nearby attractions like the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery offer step-free access.

Are there dining options near Trafalgar Square?

Numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs are nearby, including options at St Martins-in-the-Fields and along The Strand. The crypt café at St Martins-in-the-Fields is a unique choice.