Trafalgar Square is a public square in the heart of London, England, and one of the city's best-known open spaces. It makes a natural starting point for exploring the centre of the capital, with many of London's landmarks within walking distance.
What to see
- Nelson's Column, the tall monument that rises above the middle of the square.
- The fountains, which face north and give the square a lively focal point.
- The lion statues, among the most recognisable features of the square.
- The National Gallery, which stands on the northern side of the square and is well worth a visit in its own right.
What kind of visit it makes
Trafalgar Square works well as a short stop, a place to sit and watch the life of the city, or a meeting point before heading elsewhere. It is also a popular gathering place for events and celebrations, so the atmosphere can change depending on what is happening when you arrive. Check ahead if you hope to see a particular event.
Visitors often combine a stop here with a walk through the surrounding streets of central London, or with a visit to the gallery opposite. Because the square sits so close to the centre, it is easy to reach on foot from many other parts of the city.