Trafalgar Square
About Trafalgar Square
London's grand civic square at the heart of the West End, dominated by Nelson's Column and its bronze lions, and framed by the National Gallery and the church of St Martin-in-the-Fields.
History & Heritage
Trafalgar Square was laid out in the 1830s and 1840s on the former site of the King's Mews, to a design by architect Sir Charles Barry. It was named to commemorate the Battle of Trafalgar of 1805, Britain's decisive naval victory over the French and Spanish fleets in which Admiral Lord Nelson lost his life. Nelson's Column, topped by a statue of the admiral, was erected at its centre between 1840 and 1843.
The four monumental bronze lions guarding the column, sculpted by Sir Edwin Landseer, were added in 1867. The square has long been the nation's gathering place for celebration and protest alike, from New Year revelry to political rallies. The Fourth Plinth in the north-west corner, originally intended for an equestrian statue, now hosts a celebrated rolling programme of contemporary art.
What to Expect
Expect a lively, open civic space that serves as a natural meeting point and stage for public life. Climb the steps by the National Gallery for the classic view down Whitehall towards Big Ben, pose beside Landseer's famous lions, and see the latest bold commission on the Fourth Plinth. The square hosts free seasonal events and is the perfect starting point for exploring the National Gallery, St Martin-in-the-Fields and the West End beyond.
Known For
Highlights
- Nelson's Column
- Landseer's lions
- The Fourth Plinth art
- Fountains
- Public events
- National Gallery access
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square?
- The Fourth Plinth is an empty plinth in the north-west corner that now hosts a rotating programme of specially commissioned contemporary artworks, changed every couple of years.
- Can you climb the lions in Trafalgar Square?
- Many visitors do climb onto the base of the four bronze lions for photographs, though care is advised as the surfaces can be slippery and there is a drop.
- What is around Trafalgar Square?
- The square is bordered by the National Gallery and the church of St Martin-in-the-Fields, and sits within walking distance of the West End, Whitehall, Covent Garden and the Mall.
More London Landmarks
Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament
The iconic clock tower — officially the Elizabeth Tower — rising above the Palace of Westminster on the banks of the Thames, home to the UK Parliament and one of the most recognised silhouettes in the world.
Buckingham Palace
The London residence and administrative headquarters of the British monarch, famous for its balcony appearances, the Changing of the Guard ceremony and the opulent State Rooms opened to visitors each summer.
Westminster Abbey
A magnificent Gothic church and UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been the coronation church of English and British monarchs since 1066, and the burial place of kings, poets and scientists.