I think Trafalgar Square is one of those London locations that is on everybody's must-see list when they come to our city.
But, I often have my guests asking me, "What is Trafalgar Square?" and, "What is there to do at Trafalgar Square?".
So to answer these common questions, I've put together this post!
This post will cover the most interesting things to see and do in and near Trafalgar Square, including free activities, dining options, and concessions for local attractions.
In the video below, Sinead, a local London tour guide with us, Tours by Foot London, takes you on a short virtual tour of Trafalgar Square.
I hope you find this post helpful. If you have further questions, contact me!
WHAT IS TRAFALGAR SQUARE?
A tourist attraction and public space, I always describe Trafalgar Square as London’s common room.
It's a place where Londoners gather to commemorate, celebrate and commiserate.
It's a site of celebration, of protest and of art and culture.
There are ballet and West End performances in the summer, a Menorah and Christmas Tree in the Winter, and events throughout the year.
A lot of my friends consider Trafalgar Square to be the centre, or the heart, of our city.
It is in a literal sense, too, as this is where all distances to/from London are measured.
In fact, the standard set of imperial weights and measures used to be kept here, but I am sad to report they are no longer here.
The Site of Trafalgar Square has been a notable landmark since the 13th century.
It originally contained the King's Royal Mews - which are now located at Buckingham Palace (and definitely worth a visit!
I love going just to see the Gold State Coach. But I digress.).
The current version of the Square has been sitting in the heart of the City of Westminster since the 1840s when it was constructed to create an ‘Italian-style piazza’ in the centre of town.
I will point out that I always have Italians on my tours who are a bit perplexed by this description!
It was originally designed by architect John Nash but another architect, Charles Barry, completed the Square when Nash died before he could finish his project.
It’s flanked on its north terrace by the National Gallery (and my favourite, but often overlook art gallery, The National Portrait Gallery), the charming St Martin-in-the-Fields Church to the east, Admiralty Arch and the Mall to the southwest, Whitehall to the south, and the beautiful Canadian Embassy to the west.
Overlooking it all is the iconic statue of Lord Nelson on top of his column in the centre of the Square.
It's also where the end of World War II was celebrated, where London’s myriad parades finish with huge celebrations, and it’s host to cultural events throughout the year.
It’s a great place to take wonderful photos - from the famous Trafalgar Square lions to the beautiful fountains - and is a popular site for tourists to visit.
TOP THINGS TO DO AND SEE
This section lists my favourite museums, monuments, and other points of interest that are free to see in and around Trafalgar Square.
The National Gallery
The fourth most visited art museum in the world, The National Gallery, flanks the north side of Trafalgar Square.
I cannot recommend this gallery enough!
Inside you will see works by masters such as Turner, Monet and Van Gough.
In fact, this is where the famous Sunflowers painting is displayed and sometimes I go inside literally just to see it.
Honestly, the museum is huge so sometimes it's difficult to know which paintings to see.
My colleague Jessica put together a video that has her top-10 (and I agree with her list) to help you make the most of your visit in a short amount of time:
Also, the Gallery runs small tours and numerous talks throughout the year.
I\very much been to quite a few and some of them are incredible.
I've been to ones that focus on a singular painting, as well as broader looks at the work of various artists.
Sometimes it's also about new things they have discovered within paintings, like secrets revealed in X-Rays!
If you want to visit the National Gallery with a guide, just drop me a line.
I have a team of fantastic guides who specialise in showcasing the best of this fabulous museum.
The National Portrait Gallery
If you've been on a tour with me, seen any of my virtual tours, or read any of my other blog posts, you'll know I am a big lover of the history of the Monarchy.
Seeing as my specialty is Kings and Queens, the National Portrait Gallery has a place in my heart as it features depictions of nearly all of our Monarchs from the 15th century onwards.
It's not just those who wear crowns, though.
The National Portrait Gallery contains beautiful works depicting great British figures from across the centuries as well as some universally recognised names and faces.
My dad was particularly surprised when he was visited from the United States to come face-to-face with George Washington!
For those travelling with kids, take note that the Gallery has events, workshops, and trails that are great for the little ones.
My niece in particular loves the History Detective trail.
Also, exhibitions are free for under 12's.
Britain's Smallest Police Station
This is one of my favourite hidden gems to surprise people with on my private tours!
Surreptitiously tucked away in the Southeastern corner of Trafalgar Square sits what used to be Britain’s smallest police station.
It’s easy to miss, given that it is located in an old hollowed-out lamp post.
This outpost was placed here in the 1920s to allow law enforcement a place to come and monitor goings-on in the Square.
It was stated that it was big enough to contain two prisoners at a time should the need arise.
But, I honestly can't imagine two people crammed into it - it is genuinely so tiny!
I do take a look in the window on occasion when I am passing by.
Today, it seems to mostly be used as a miniature office for Westminster City Council.
Make a Wish in an Iconic Fountain
Two fountains sit on either side of Trafalgar Square and commemorate Admirals Jellicoe and Beatty.
Originally, fountains were placed here in 1845 as a way to take up space in the Square to make it less desirous as a place for demonstrations and riots.
I find that hilarious given that Trafalgar Square is now one of the most popular demonstration sites in our city!
In the 1930s, it was decided to add memorials to the fountains which included the elaborate sculptures of mermaids, mermen, tritons, and dolphins that are still here today.
I notice that a lot of people throw coins into the fountains...and I have also seen people fishing the coins out after a few drinks!
When it's really hot, I've seen people walking through the water or perching on the edge to keep their feet cool.
And one memorable winter, I even saw them completely frozen over!
Watch Street Performers and Artists
The area between Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery was paved and pedestrianised in 2003.
Today this space has been taken by artists, musicians, and street performers.
It's also where the Trafalgar Square Christmas Market appears every winter.
These days I feel like it's almost guaranteed that when I walk past the area I will see at least one artist of musician - and some are pretty impressive.
I've seen artists making beautiful chalk work, musicians playing various instruments and even magicians performing tricks.
I think it's always worth a wander past just to see what I may stumble across.
Art on the Fourth Plinth
This is one of my favourite London stories.
Originally, a plinth in the northwest corner of Trafalgar Square was built with the intention of supporting a statue of King William IV.
Owing to a shortage of funds, however, it never happened.
So in 1998 the Fourth Plinth Project was invented - a rotating exhibition where various artists works would be displayed on the plinth for a set period of time.
I have seen all sorts over the years!
There was a large hand with a giant thumbs up, a giant blue rooster, and my favourite which was a giant ship in a bottle (now located out in Greenwich).
There was also a memorable time during 2009 where a total of 2,400 individuals each spent a single hour on top of the plinth.
One of my friends was lucky enough to be chosen and he spent his hour taking pictures of people taking pictures of him.
Some people sang or danced or even just sat there.
I also remember a LOT of people taking their clothes off...so many, in fact, they finally had to tell people they weren't allowed to strip!
At the time of writing (Jan 2025), the current piece that was put up in September 2024 is 850 Imprints by artist Teresa Margolles.
It's the casts of the faces of 850 trans people from London and across the world, displayed in the form of a skull rack.
See Nelson's Column
Dominating the square is Nelson’s Column, a 169ft 3in (51.59m) granite column with the figure of Admiral Lord Nelson on the top that was completed in 1843.
Nelson was viewed as the hero who led Britain to victory at the Battle of Trafalgar, and tragically died in the process it was decided by members of Parliament that a monument to him should be erected in the square.
The base of the column is decorated with four bronze relief panels commemorating British naval victories as well as Nelson’s death.
The statue itself has sometimes become part of events or protests in the square.
I remember when Star Wars: The Force Awakens came out, it was illuminated to look like a giant green lightsaber!
I heard Disney paid almost £25,000 to get the rights to do it.
Then in 2016 the figure ended up with a breathing mask that was placed there by climate protestors.
King Charles I Statue
Just outside Trafalgar Square, on the traffic island inside the traffic roundabout, sits a statue of King Charles I on horseback.
I really like this statue because there is more to it than first meets the eye.
There are plenty of statues of Kings and Queens around London, but this is the statue of Britain's only executed monarch.
His statue is looking down the long road ahead - Whitehall - which used to be the location of one of his royal palaces: The Palace of Whitehall.
And it was there, in January 1649 that King Charles I was beheaded in front of a crowd of spectators.
So the figure is literally facing the site of his own demise.
The statue itself was actually created before the king died and was given to a metalsmith to be destroyed after Charles’ execution.
Instead, the smith buried the statue and it was bought back by the executed king’s son, Charles II (my favourite Monarch) who placed it in its’ current location.
Get Theater and Attractions Offers
If you love a bargain as much as I do, take note that there are numerous offers to be had near Trafalgar Square!
For cheap theatre tickets check out the TKTS booth just behind Trafalgar Square in Leicester Square.
That's honestly the only reason I go to Leicester Square these days.
Although, to be fair, there's a TKTS website now which means I never actually have to go to the booth! But I do sometimes think it's fun to queue up and see what's on offer.
See the Iconic Bronze Lions
At the bottom of Nelson's column, you will find bronze statues depicting four lions, crafted by Sir Edwin Landseer.
These were added to Nelson's Column in 1867 and represent the national lion symbol of England.
Legend states if Big Ben were to chime 14 times, the statues would come to life.
I have no idea who made this up but I'd love to test the theory!
It used to be quite common to walk past Trafalgar Square and see dozens of tourists climbing the lions in an effort to get an interesting photo.
(There are certainly no pictures of me on top of one of one of them, of course).
These days there's huge signs telling people to stay off the lions, although I've found that it doesn't necessarily stop everybody.
The Rooftop at The Trafalgar St. James Hotel
I'll admit, it's a bit pricey to eat or drink here, but that's Central London for you.
If you're feeling particularly flush, you could also stay here. The hotel is well-reviewed.
However, the hotel is actually on my list because it's one of my favourite cocktail bars in the city.
If you can afford the splurge, you should consider enjoying the view at this rooftop bar and restaurant on the Square.
In addition to the views of Trafalgar Square, you can also see much of central London, including the London Eye and the Palace of Westminster, and Big Ben.
I find that it's a bit busy on weekends, but for the most part, people don't know about it so I never have trouble getting a table.
They do some fantastic snacks to go along with their cocktails too.
And, although I end up usually spending around £50 over the course of a few hours, it's definitely worth it when I take into account the surroundings and the views.
ANNUAL EVENTS IN TRAFALGAR SQUARE
Trafalgar Square’s location makes it a great place to meet, grab photos, or just relax a bit and watch London go by.
Throughout the year there are also huge events that take place here. Find out what’s on when you’re in town...
NOTE: All of these events are totally FREE!
January
Every year London plays host to huge Chinese New Year celebrations, with free events taking place in Trafalgar Square.
This is one of the events I attend the most! There's always singing, dancing, martial arts displays and fireworks.
But the reason I keep coming back is two fold: the incredible Chinese street food and the fantastic dragon performers.
March
This is a fun one!
On St. Patrick’s Day, a family-friendly parade travels through London and finishes with a celebration on Trafalgar Square.
Irish singers and dancers perform, Irish food is served up, and family-friendly arts and crafts stalls are set up for those travelling with little ones.
Once the official events in Trafalgar Square close, a lot of people (my fiends and I included) will spread out into Covent Garden and Soho to continue the celebrations.
You'll most likely find us at Waxy O'Connor's!
April
Most of the visitors on my tours have no idea that this is an acknowledged day in the UK.
A day to celebrate England’s patron saint, St. George’s Day, sees a party in Trafalgar Square thrown each year by the Mayor of London.
The Square gets decked out in the red and white colours of St. George, craft stalls and traditional foot carts pop up, and non-stop entertainment takes place on the main stage.
A celebration of Sikh and Punjabi culture and heritage marking the birth of the Khalsa.
Expect traditional vegetarian foods, live music, dancing, and an opportunity to try playing new sports.
One year I was also able to take part in turban-tying lessons which was a fun and unique experience!
Although I'm not sure I could be trusted to do it again on my own.
May
Eid marks the end of Ramadan and here in Trafalgar Square, there will be music, prayer, celebration, and lots and lots of food to break the month of fasting.
My sister-in-law is Muslim so I have been to this one a few times!
June
This is one of Trafalgar Square’s most popular events and is, without a doubt, my absolute favourite!
Each June, West End Live sees performances of West End shows put on stage here for free.
Huge lineups throughout the weekend mean visitors have a chance to see iconic performances, classic pieces, and legendary musical numbers carried out by London’s best theatre stars without having to pay a single pound.
My friends and I go EARLY to grab a great spot either in front of the stage or up on the back steps near the National Gallery.
July
London’s LGBTQ+ Pride celebrations take place throughout the city during the month of June.
The highlight of London Pride celebrations is the huge parade that snakes through the centre of town before finishing here near Trafalgar Square.
I've been lucky enough to march in the Parade multiple times - and it's always a ridiculous amount of fun.
Out of all the events tat take place in the square throughout the year I think this one has the best atmosphere.
September
This one might take place in October this year, but I am keeping it under the September banner for now.
Just make sure to check the website before you plan on attending!
An annual celebration of Japanese culture.
Guests can expect, martial arts displays, Edo-period magic tricks, Japanese delicacies, and even a karaoke contest.
October
A yearly celebration of the various cultures and traditions across Africa.
Music, traditional dance and incredible food will all be on offer here in the square.
My favourite part of the Africa in the Square event is the yearly talent show they hold on a stage in the centre!
The Festival of Lights is celebrated each year in Trafalgar Square in an event that is attended by thousands of visitors.
Expect music, guest speakers, food, and your chance to try traditional dancing (I'm absolutely rubbish but you might not be).
December
Each year, as a token of gratitude for assistance during the second world war, Norway gifts London a beautiful Norwegian Spruce Christmas Tree.
I can't get enough Christmas so I am always here for this one!
I like to see the lighting of the tree and then enjoy the live Christmas carols.
And, of course, I do it all while sipping on some hot mulled wine.
A giant menorah to celebrate Chanukah is placed in Trafalgar Square on the first day of the festival.
Guests can come to watch the lighting as well as take part in traditional singing and dancing.
How to Get Here
Trafalgar Square is easy to find and is centrally located at the start of The Mall by Charing Cross Underground Station.
Since I live on the Northern Line, I often get off at Leicester Square and walk down, or if I'm coming from the East, I'll get off at Embankment and walk up.
You have plenty of choices!
Trafalgar Square should not be confused with the forecourt, or square, in front of Buckingham Palace.
Transport Links
Trafalgar Square is easily accessible by public transport as it sits right in the heart of town.
- Nearest Underground Stations: Charing Cross, Embankment, Leicester Square and Westminster
- Nearest Rail Station: Charing Cross Station
- Bus Routes: 3, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15, 23, 24, 29, 53, 87, 88, 91, 139, 159, 176, 453
Be sure to read our post on navigating the London Underground.
Tour Buses
The Square is also a stop on all London hop-on-hop-off bus routes.
I get asked about these bus tours a lot as most people want some guidance on choosing the "best" company.
You'll find a full breakdown in my post linked above.
But, I also personally say: Big Bus is best for the audio guide and The Original Tour is best for live guides.
Let Us Take You Here
Trafalgar Square is near the endpoint of my Royal London Walking Tour, so consider exploring it after your tour with me.
For those of you taking our Harry Potter Tour, there is a stop here to discuss the final film premiere which took place here in 2011.
If you're here during the holiday season, Trafalgar Square is also on our fantastic Christmas Lights Walking Tour - and our Christmas Lights by Black Cab Tour.
Public Toilets
There are public toilets located in Trafalgar Square (open from 10:00am - 6:00pm) which can be accessed for a fee.
There are disabled toilets which are free of charge.
My secret tip, though, is to use the cleaner, and FREE, toilets in The National Gallery at the top of the Square!
PLACES TO EAT AND DRINK
Getting food near Trafalgar Square is easy as there are so many places to choose from:
Quick Bites to Takeaway/Picnic
Casual Sit Downs
- Ochre at the National Gallery (They do a great Afternoon tea and fantastic cocktails)
- Cafe in the Crypt at St. Martins-in-the-Fields (One of the most unique places to eat)
- Pizza Express
Pubs
Cocktails
- The Rooftop at the Trafalgar St. James (Check out the Apricot Blossom if you get the chance!)
The Square is also a short walk away from the foodie havens of Covent Garden and Chinatown.
I try to tell as many of my visitors as possible that although there are plenty of restaurants in or near Leicester Square - I would never step foot in any of them and I don't think you should, either!
It's all over-priced and aimed at tourists.
There are many delicious places to eat in London but my personal rule is that if I can see Leicester Square from the restaurant, I will avoid it.
I find many restaurants here target quantity over quality and there are a lot of chain restaurants about.
So, it's worth it to head a little bit further into Covent Garden or even into Mayfair and St. James on the other side.
THINGS TO DO NEAR TRAFALGAR SQUARE
The location of this landmark is within walking distance from a number of other London attractions.
In this section, I will cover some of the best things to see and do near Trafalgar Square.
The Banqueting House
The Banqueting House is the only surviving part of the 16th-century Palace of Whitehall.
This is where Henry VIII would have held court and where King Charles I was executed. V+isitors can enjoy the stunning ceiling painted by Rubens.
NOTE: I am sad to report that The Banqueting House is no longer open to the public. It closed down during the pandemic in 2020 and has never reopened.
I probably check once a month to see if the public are allowed inside again but so far, no luck.
I've heard that Historic Royal Palaces is using it primarily as an events space lately so perhaps the days of public access are over.
Palace of Westminster, Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben
The Houses of Parliament (including the House of Commons and the House of Lords) are the legislating bodies of the United Kingdom and are located inside the Palace of Westminster.
Rebuilt after a fire in 1834, the current Palace contains the iconic structure of the Queen Elizabeth II Tower - more popularly known as Big Ben!
My first ever job as a tour guide was in the Houses of Parliament and I can't recommend a visit there enough!
I am always excited to tell people that they can actually visit the building for FREE.
Check out my blog post about it to find out how.
Westminster Abbey
There has been a church located on this site since at least the 600s.
The current version was begun by King Edward the Confessor and has since seen numerous coronations (including our current King, Charles III), royal weddings (Including William and Kate’s), and state funerals (including that of Princess Diana and the late Queen Elizabeth II).
A lot of my guests ask me, "Is Westminster Abbey Worth it?" Personally, I think so. But to decide for yourself, check out my guide for tickets, concessions, and free visits.
Horseguard's Parade
Horseguard’s Parade is the ceremonial parade ground used by the Household Cavalry.
A site for events like the Trooping the Colour, the Parade now holds the Changing of the Queen’s Life Guard.
When the Changing is taking place, I like to take my groups on our Westminster and All in One Tours to see it in person.
For those wanting to know more, the Household Cavalry Museum is located here as well.
And my favourite bit of trivia is that in 2012, the courtyard was filled with thousands of tons of sand as this was where the Olympic Men and Women's Beach Volleyball Tournaments were held!
St. James's Palace
St. James’s Palace is the official site of the Court of the King.
St. James’s Palace was originally built for King Henry VIII in the 1500s and now is used for ceremonial events pertaining to the Royal Family.
The Changing of the Guard begins here in the courtyard before heading down The Mall toward Buckingham Palace.
Of course, St. James's Palace is a top on both our Westminster and All-in-One Tours!
Churchill War Rooms
The Churchill War Rooms are the underground bunkers where Winston Churchill led the British troops during the Second World War.
Located underneath the Treasury in Whitehall, these rooms are now open to the public as a museum.
The displays inside showcase the usage of the building during the war, as well as documenting Churchill’s leadership and also the rest of his fascinating life.
I honestly love this museum and recommend it to all of my guests.
I always say it's worth a visit even if you're not super into military history.
I love it because the entire place is like a time capsule and when I'm down there it's like being transported back to the past.
If you’re interested in learning more about World War Two, come along with my colleague Canice on his fantastic World War Two Tour!
Benjamin Franklin House
The Benjamin Franklin House is the world’s only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin.
The house here dates from 1730 and was Franklin’s home and office for sixteen years.
Visitors can take a fascinating tour that is honestly unlike anything I've experienced before.
The tour is a mix of live-action and audio and visual effects.
I've done it twice and loved it each time - it's one of my favourite 'hidden' places.
Leicester Square
In the very centre of the West End sits Leicester Square.
Formerly a country-side estate today the Square is known for its affiliation with theatre.
World premieres of international films are held here (think James Bond and Harry Potter!), off-West-End plays and gigs are held in the nearby cobbled streets, and London’s cheaper theatre ticket market is based here at the TKTS Booth.
Also filled with street performers and artists, Leicester Square is a vibrant locale in the middle of town, with restaurants, bars, clubs, and casinos that are open 24 hours.
I've said this already but I'll say it again: Londoners hardly ever come to Leicester Square.
I'd recommend walking through it just to tick it off your list, check out the cheap ticket prices, then head over into Soho or Covent Garden!
Although, I will admit, their Christmas Market is quite good...
Piccadilly Circus
Likely the most iconic traffic junction in the world, Piccadilly Circus is in the heart of the West End and achieved international fame when the huge advertisement signs here became the first in the world to be illuminated.
There are numerous notable sites nearby like Regent’s Street, Leicester Square, Piccadilly and St. James, the M&M Store, and Shaftesbury Avenue.
Honestly, I only ever come to Piccadilly Circus if I am passing by on my way to somewhere else.
Usually Fortnum & Mason or one of the nearby theatres. Although I always see people milling about at the statue so it's a popular place to meet in the centre of town.
Consider exploring with us on our Soho, Piccadilly, and Chinatown Tour or Rock n’ Roll Tour!
Chinatown
Billed as ‘China in the Heart of London’, Chinatown is a small enclave of Chinese restaurants, shops, grocery stores, bakeries, and other Chinese-run businesses.
A great place to eat delicious food and also a great place for late-night revelry, Chinatown will keep you entertained, have you eating authentic flavours, and find treasures in interesting shops.
My favourite restaurants here are Bun House for something cheap and cheerful or Royal China for when I want a sit down meal. And I almost don't want to share my favourite bakery for fear it will get too popular but the Kowloon Bakery on Gerrard Street does cakes unlike any I've ever had before.
See an Embassy and a High Commission
Trafalgar Square is flanked by two of London’s largest and most beautiful embassies - those of South Africa to the East and Canada to the West.
(Note that embassies for countries that are part of the Commonwealth are referred to as High Commissions).
South Africa House has stood here since the 1930s and was home to Prime Minister Jan Smuts during World War II.
Today it is a focal point of South African culture in the U.K.
Nelson Mandela stood on the balcony here during his 1996 visit to London and again in 2001 to mark the seventh anniversary of Freedom Day when apartheid was officially abolished.
Canada House, as we see it today, was officially opened by King George V in 1925.
The interior features furniture, carpets, and maple and birch flooring all imported from Canada.
But my favourite fact about Canada House is not what it is today - but what it used to be: the home of the White Star Line - operates of the ill-fated RMS Titanic.
