Heard that London has approximately 3,000 parks. Pretty green, right? Trafalgar Square is actually one of them! However, it’s just not a park where you can just sit and kill time because there’s so much to do in this square.
Museums, galleries, and monuments are the pride of this park. If you like more of a history buzz, this is worth your time!
After visiting this historic square a couple of times, we found some great activities. Make sure to check out this guide before you go here for a hassle-free day ahead!
Where is Trafalgar Square?
Trafalgar Square is in Westminster, Central London. It is close to the Charing Cross station, the National Gallery, and Whitehall.
What is the main street in Trafalgar Square?
The main street in Trafalgar Square is Whitehall, leading to the Houses of Parliament and Westminster. There are also other streets, but Whitehall is where you’ll find a theatre and some government buildings with great architecture.
How to get to Trafalgar Square?
- Closest tube stop: To get to Trafalgar Square, ride the tube at Charing Cross station (Northern & Bakerloo lines). You’ll find an exit leading directly to Trafalgar Square.
- Closest bus stop: If you’re riding a bus, take the bus routes: 3, 6, 9, 11, 12, 15, 23, 29, 87, 88, 91, 139, 159, 176, and 453. Look for bus stops on Whitehall, St. Martin’s Place, and Charing Cross Road.
What to do and see in Trafalgar Square?
Visit the National Gallery
Media credit: nationalgallery
Pricing: Free admission
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
The National Gallery is a world-class museum with 2,300 paintings. From Leonardo da Vinci’s Sunflower to Claude Monet’s Water-Lily Pond, you’ll feel the history of each masterpiece.
There is a free guided tour, and you can use their map to look at the locations of other artworks. The fact that this is a major art gallery and it’s free is something you should not miss if you’re in London.
Aside from the exhibits, the museum also has gift shops where you can buy books and souvenirs. Food and drinks can also be purchased at their restaurant and two cafes inside.
Chill at the Admiral Jellicoe Memorial Fountain
Media credit: cdn_traveller
Other fountains to visit
- Admiral Beatty Memorial Fountain
If you don’t want to tire yourself from walking, you’d better sit at the edge of the fountain. Sitting here would give you the best views of some iconic features on the square. It includes Nelson’s Column, the National Gallery, and lion statues.
The best time to relax here is either in the morning or late in the afternoon. You get to see street performers and listen to buskers serenading tourists. Grab your coffee and rest here a bit, you won’t regret it.
Where to eat and drink in Trafalgar Square?
Café in the Crypt
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Address: St Martin-in-the-Fields
Phone: +442077661158
Pricing: £10–20 per person
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday, and Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday and Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Café in the Crypt is a 30-year-old snack bar on the edge of Trafalgar Square. We love its ambience as well as the unique idea of eating on top of the catacombs.
They serve food, which many locals and tourists love. Some popular items on their menu are apple crumble and meat pie. They also have cake and coffee you can savour while enjoying their choir.
This restaurant in the square is perfect for a break after exploring the nearby gallery and streets.
Where to shop in Trafalgar Square?
National Gallery Shop
Media credit: susiehodge1
Address: The National Gallery
Phone: +442077472870
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Good to know:
The National Gallery Shop is a home of artsy souvenirs for both adults and kids. It has posters and art prints of some famous artworks. If you like coffee table art books, you’ll also find them here.
For kids, they have children’s storybooks and creative toys. Though they don’t just focus on arts, they also sell towels, mugs, and coasters. Their items are perfect for display and gifts.
Where to stay in Trafalgar Square?
The Trafalgar St. James London, Curio Collection by Hilton
Media credit: trafalgarsw1
Address: 2 Spring Gardens, Trafalgar Sq
Phone: +442078702900
Pricing: Starts from £693
Good to know: There is no valet parking. Parking costs around £50/day and requires booking.
South of Trafalgar Square is The Trafalgar St. James London, Curio Collection by Hilton. It’s a 6-storey building with 131 rooms and a basement suite.
The hotel is famous for its neoclassical architecture and design. But if you want a contemporary room, you can find it on the upper floor. On the rooftop, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the square together with the bar.
Guests love the snack delivery and welcoming staff of the hotel. It’s a stay where you can feel history and modern comfort.
FAQs about Trafalgar Square
The statue in Trafalgar Square is Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson. He led their win on the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The statue is also known as Nelson’s Column.
The government discourages sitting and climbing on the lions in Trafalgar Square. This is to preserve the statue. It’s not illegal to sit, but it’s not advisable. If you do, you’ll be asked to get down by the security.
The Greater London Authority (GLA) manages Trafalgar Square. They also maintain and oversee the events held on the Trafalgar.
Feeding the birds in Trafalgar Square is not allowed and has been banned since 2003. This is due to public health concerns and hygiene. Feeding the birds can result in fines.
