Trafalgar Square in London is considered the center of England for many reasons. It lies at the intersection of several major roadways and holds dozens of things to do and see. An architectural landmark as well, it is surrounded by fountains designed in the Neo-Classical style that influenced the ‘look’ of major public squares for centuries.
The south end of Trafalgar is used as the point from which all distances to London are measured. The point used to be marked by Charing Cross, which was built by Edward I as a tribute to his wife. It has long been replaced by the statue of another monarch - Charles I atop a horse.
This major construction was completed in 1845 and has enjoyed continued popularity since - although sometimes to the regret of its sponsors. The large, open piazza-style area has become a frequent location for political demonstrations.
The centerpiece of the center of England is unquestionably the 185-foot column topped by the 17-foot statue of Lord Nelson. This being historically significant, since the square itself was made as a tribute to Nelson’s military victory in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
At the base of the column are four large bronze lions sculpted by Landseer, sitting atop huge granite plinths. (A plinth is a block of stone that serves as a base for a column or statue.) Bronze reliefs at the base depict four of Admiral Nelson’s famous battles.
Once home to large flocks of pigeons, the tower and other structures have been rejuvenated after a program to radically decrease the bird population. This had to come with some controversy though, as the birds and pigeons had become popular with many tourists.
One of the world’s premier art museums can be found on the north side of the square. On the north side of the square sits the National Gallery, one of the world’s premier art museums. The National Gallery is home to many significant paintings, and is itself a renowned piece of architectural art.
East of there is St. Martin’s-in-the-Fields Church. On the south is Whitehall, where visitors can see The Cenotaph, which was built to memorialize the Armistice in 1919.
To the west is Canada House. Visiting Canadians can use the facility to read Canadian newspapers and send or receive emails. The building’s classical exterior is worth a look for anyone.
On the east side is South Africa House with a delightful display of African animals featured on its stone arches.
Christmas is a good time to visit Trafalgar Square, if just for the traditional tree-lighting ceremony. Each year, Norway sends a giant spruce or fir to London. The tree is erected and decorated for the season and each year it is ceremoniously lighted by the Mayor of Oslo and the Lord Mayor of Westminster. The tradition started in 1947, to mark Norway’s gratitude for British support during WWII.
Just less than a mile away are several other great sights. Among them are the Churchill Museum and 10 Downing Street - home of the Prime Minister since 1732. Dr. Johnson’s house (creator of the first English dictionary) is about a mile away, as is the British Museum, one of the world’s largest collections of artifacts.
Discover other tours and destination in London:
Enjoy a 3-day getaway to the magnificent Scottish Highlands! Traveling by train from London to Edinburgh, you enjoy 2 nights in a quaint B and B, and spend your days exploring the mysterious Loch Ness and her surroundings. Visit Urquart Castle, relax aboard a cruise on the loch itself, and journey to Culloden Moor.
Escape London and spend a night in romantic Paris. Take the Eurostar across the channel and choose from a fully independent two day break, or take the easy option with a guide.
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