Trafalgar Square is one of London's principal public spaces, framed by the National Gallery and centred on Nelson's Column, fountains and sculpted lions. Its open setting has long made it a gathering place for celebrations, demonstrations and major city events, while the changing artwork on the Fourth Plinth adds a contemporary note. The square is also a practical crossroads rather than an isolated sight: Whitehall leads south towards Westminster, while Covent Garden, Soho and St James's are all close enough to explore on foot.
Charing Cross (Bakerloo, Northern)
30–60 minutes (longer with gallery)
Anytime — the square is open 24/7.
Why visit
Free entry to the National Gallery on the square.
Visitor information
- Open public square, free and accessible 24 hours.
- The National Gallery on the north side has free general admission.
- Charing Cross is the closest station; the square links Whitehall, The Mall and the West End on foot.
- Public events and installations can close parts of the square at short notice.
Official sources
Practical tips
- 01National Gallery is free.
- 02Look out for rotating Fourth Plinth artworks.
- 03Walk down Whitehall to Big Ben.
Frequently asked questions
Is the National Gallery free?
Yes, general admission to the permanent collection is free. Special exhibitions are usually ticketed separately.
What is the Fourth Plinth?
The empty plinth in the square's north-west corner, used for a rotating programme of contemporary artworks rather than a permanent statue.