Trafalgar Square

The Basics

Trafalgar Square is one of the best places to take the pulse of life in England’s capital city. While many tourists come here independently, a guide can help enlighten visitors as to the significance of the square’s many monuments and sights as well as draw attention to the splendid surrounding architecture. Trafalgar Square is commonly included on sightseeing tours of the West End and Central London, along with nearby Westminster, where you’ll find Big Ben and the United Kingdom’s Houses of Parliament. You may also encounter Trafalgar Square during guided walking tours, bus tours, and bike tours.

Things to Know Before You Go

• You’ll find public restrooms at the west end of the square; a small charge applies.

• Check ahead to see if an event is scheduled. Preparation for big events may result in limited access.

• The National Gallery offers free Wi-Fi.

How to Get There

The nearest station to Trafalgar Square is Charing Cross, which is served by the Bakerloo and Northern Underground lines as well as by regular rail. Embankment (Bakerloo, Circle, District, and Northern lines), Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines), and Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines) stations are all fewer than 10 minutes’ walk away.

When to Get There

Trafalgar Square is at its liveliest in summer. Lunchtime is particularly good for people-watching as office workers decamp from their desks to eat on the steps in front of the National Gallery. In the run-up to the festive period, a giant Christmas tree—a gift from Norway to the people of Britain—is erected in the center of the square, and carolers belt out festive songs to raise money for charity.

The Fourth Plinth

Built in 1841, Trafalgar Square’s Fourth Plinth was originally meant to host a statue of King William IV, but because of a lack of funds, it stood empty for more than a century. Until recently, that is, when the mayor of London decided to put the plinth to good use: as a showcase for contemporary artwork. In 2017 the plinth held David Shrigley’sReally Good, a 22-foot (7-meter) bronze thumbs-up.

Are there guided tours available for Trafalgar Square?

Yes, many London walking tours pass through Trafalgar Square, giving the lowdown on the history of the vibrant plaza that dates back to the early 19th century. The square is usually thronged by hop-on, hop-off buses and sightseeing coaches that include the site as a must-see stop on their itineraries.

What are the major attractions in and around Trafalgar Square?

Nelson’s Column, the Fourth Plinth for public art, and the photo-worthy Landseer Lions sculptures are all in Trafalgar Square, while more major attractions are found nearby. The National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery crown the northern reaches of the square, while the elegant Admiralty Arch flanks the square’s southwestern corner.

What are the best photo spots in Trafalgar Square?

Many snap-happy visitors can’t resist the draw of the four bronze lion sculptures that guard Nelson’s Column. Named after the man who designed them, the Landseer Lions of Trafalgar Square have become an iconic backdrop for Trafalgar Square photos. Just note, though, that climbing on the beasts is officially banned.

Is there an entrance fee to visit Trafalgar Square?

No, Trafalgar Square is a public site that’s freely accessible to all. Even many organized events here are free; the square has hosted London’s popular Eid in the Square, West End Live, Black Cultural Event, and St. Patrick’s Day festivities. As with most places in central London, though, there is a restroom fee.

What are the best times to visit Trafalgar Square to avoid crowds?

Trafalgar Square is a bustling place every day, but if you visit on a weekday morning, you’ll likely find it quiet. Early risers could aim to catch the first tube when most people in the square are flitting through on their way to work, leaving the monuments calm and crowd-free.

Can I take a photography tour of Trafalgar Square?

Yes, there are plenty of London photography tours that visit Trafalgar Square. Options include night tours that capture the site’s lit-up monuments or daytime tours that aim to translate the energy and bustle of the square into print. Photography tours with private guides or small groups are among the possibilities.

Ways to explore

While many travelers come to Trafalgar Square independently, a guide can help shed light on the significance of its many monuments, as well as draw attention to the impressive surrounding architecture. The square is commonly included on sightseeing tours of the West End and Central London, along with Westminster, where you can find Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. An easy way to get around is a hop-on, hop-off bus tour; some of these have optional river cruises. You can also choose from walking tours, bike tours, or the luxurious option of a private taxi tour.

Accessibility

The square is large, paved, and level with step-free routes, but crowds can be large as it’s a popular gathering spot.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Refillable water bottle, portable phone charger, sunscreen

What to wear

Comfortable, casual footwear, layered clothing, hat if it’s sunny

Not allowed

Climbing on sculptures, littering, drones

Amenities

Local information (by asking wardens), galleries nearby, public restrooms

Address

Trafalgar Square can be incredibly busy, so it’s not worth driving there. Tube is the best bet, but many travelers come here on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour or a guided walking tour.

Driving

Parking is limited in the area, so if you’re going by car it’s best to opt for a rideshare service if possible, so you don’t have to worry about finding a parking spot.

Public transportation

Charing Cross is the nearest station to Trafalgar Square (Bakerloo, Northern lines as well as rail services). Embankment, Piccadilly Circus, and Leicester Square stations are all within a 10-minute walk away.

Best times to visit

Trafalgar Square is liveliest in the summer, especially at lunchtime when office workers gather on the National Gallery steps—perfect for people-watching and taking in the vibrant locale.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are a good time to come, in order to skip the bigger weekend crowds.

Best months to visit

July and August are great for relaxing in the sunshine (if the weather is so inclined), but equally, December is atmospheric.

Special events

December is a festive time to visit, with a giant Christmas tree from Norway displayed in the square. In April, the London Marathon route also passes through the area.