Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square stands in the City of Westminster, a large open space laid out in the early 19th century around the point once called Charing Cross. It takes its name from Nelson’s victory at Cape Trafalgar in 1805, a battle that shaped the Napoleonic Wars. The square replaced the King’s Mews, stables that had occupied the site since the 13th century, before George IV moved them to Buckingham Palace. John Nash began the redesign but work stalled after his death in 1835 and only finished in 1844. Today it is framed by the National Gallery, St Martin-in-the-Fields, Canada House and South Africa House. The square is anchored by Nelson’s Column, a 52-metre monument topped by a statue of the admiral who led the fleet at Trafalgar. Four bronze lions by Sir Edwin Landseer guard the base, while fountains by Sir Edwin Lutyens flank the column. A plinth in the north-west corner has displayed changing artworks since 1999. The square has long been a stage for national events, from political demonstrations to the annual Norwegian Christmas tree gifted since 1947. It also marks the official centre of London for distance measurements. Visitors find wide terraces, paved areas and stepped approaches that rise to the National Gallery’s portico. The fountains provide water and light, while the surrounding buildings offer shelter and views. Charing Cross Road and Whitehall meet at the southern edge, linking the square to the Strand and The Mall. Pigeons once filled the space but were removed early in this century, leaving the square quieter for gatherings and passers-by.