History of Trafalgar Square and the Origin of its Name
The present layout of Trafalgar Square was designed by Sir Charles Barry in the 1840s as part of a wider redevelopment of central London. The site had previously been occupied by the Royal Mews, which were relocated to Buckingham Palace in the early 19th century. This freed up space for the construction of a large open square in the heart of the expanding capital.
The square is named after the Battle of Trafalgar, fought in 1805 during the Napoleonic Wars. In the battle, the British Royal Navy defeated the combined fleets of France and Spain off the coast of southern Spain.
Layout and Stages of Development
Trafalgar Square was not completed as a single, unified project but developed in stages over several decades. The basic layout was established in the 1840s, while many of the square’s defining features were added later. Nelson’s Column was completed in the 1840s, the lion statues were installed in the 1860s, and the statues on the corner plinths were erected gradually during the second half of the 19th century.
The current fountains were redesigned by Sir Edwin Lutyens in the 1930s as part of a reorganisation of the square. The Fourth Plinth was only repurposed for rotating contemporary artworks in the 1990s. As a result, the present appearance of Trafalgar Square reflects design decisions made across different historical periods.
Statues and Monuments in Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is particularly known for its monuments and sculptures, which are central to its historical character. The square also features two fountains that provide a welcome sense of coolness on warm summer days.
Nelson’s Column
At the centre of the square stands Nelson’s Column, rising to a height of approximately 52 metres. The statue at the top depicts Admiral Horatio Nelson, who commanded the British fleet at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805 and was killed during the fighting. The statue faces south towards Whitehall and the Westminster government district.
Statues on the Corner Plinths
There are four plinths positioned at the corners of the square. Three of them carry permanent historical statues, depicting Sir Henry Havelock and Sir Charles James Napier, both 19th-century British military commanders, as well as an equestrian statue of King George IV.
The Lion Statues
At the base of Nelson’s Column are four large bronze lion statues, among the most recognisable features of Trafalgar Square. The sculptures were created by Sir Edwin Landseer and completed in the 1860s. Each lion is around four metres long and cast in bronze. During the 19th century, the lion had become an established symbol of the British state and monarchy, which is why it was chosen for Nelson’s memorial.
The Fourth Plinth – Contemporary Art in Trafalgar Square
The fourth corner plinth, known as the Fourth Plinth, was originally left empty. Since the 1990s, it has been used to display rotating contemporary artworks. Currently on display is Mil Veces un Instante (A Thousand Times an Instant) by Mexican artist Teresa Margolles, installed in 2024 and scheduled to remain until 2026. The next work planned for the plinth is Lady in Blue by Tschabalala Self, scheduled for installation in 2026.
London’s Smallest Police Station
One of London’s smallest former police stations is located in Trafalgar Square. It sits in the south-east corner near the lion statues and is built to resemble a lamppost. The police box was constructed in the 1920s as a monitoring point for large public gatherings. It remains in place today, although it is no longer used for policing.
Museums and a Church around Trafalgar Square
On the northern side of the square stands the National Gallery, whose collection covers European painting from the 13th to the 19th century. Nearby is the National Portrait Gallery, which focuses on notable figures from British history and culture.
On the eastern side of the square is St Martin-in-the-Fields, an 18th-century Anglican church. It is particularly well known for its regular concerts, including lunchtime performances and choral music. Beneath the church is the popular Café in the Crypt, which also serves lunch.
Events in Trafalgar Square Throughout the Year
Trafalgar Square regularly hosts a wide range of public events. These include cultural celebrations, political demonstrations and international commemorations. One of the best-known annual events is the celebration of the Chinese New Year, when the square becomes a focal point for performances and festivities in cooperation with nearby Chinatown. Another big event is the West End Live weekend, during which you’ll get to hear performances from top West End musicals.
The Christmas Tree and Trafalgar Square Christmas Market
Each December, a Christmas tree is erected in Trafalgar Square, continuing a tradition that began in 1947. The tree is a gift from the city of Oslo to London, cut in Norway and transported to the UK each year as part of a long-standing tradition. The lighting follows Norwegian custom, using vertical strings of lights.
During the Christmas season, small-scale Christmas markets also appear in and around the square. The stalls typically offer winter street food such as sausages, grilled dishes and sweet pastries, as well as hot drinks and seasonal gifts.
What to do in Trafalgar Square
Visitors to Trafalgar Square can explore its monuments, visit nearby museums, attend public events or use the square as a starting point for nearby attractions. There is a good view towards Big Ben, which often looks mystical or even ethereal from the square. The square is within easy walking distance of Whitehall, Covent Garden and Westminster.
Trafalgar Square: Transport and Connections
The nearest Underground station to Trafalgar Square is Charing Cross station, located directly on the southern edge of the square and served by the Bakerloo and Northern lines. Embankment station is also a short walk away towards the River Thames, with services on the Bakerloo, Circle, District and Northern lines.
Numerous bus routes pass through the area, and Trafalgar Square is easily accessible on foot from many central London neighbourhoods.
