Trafalgar Square

As a public plaza, Trafalgar Square is free to enter and remains open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. No tickets are required to walk around and enjoy the statues or the fountains. The square is overlooked by the National Gallery, which also offers free entry to its permanent collection. For 2026, the square continues to host major free events, including St. Patrick’s Day in March and St. George’s Day in April. If you need a break, the nearby St Martin-in-the-Fields church offers a unique dining experience in its subterranean Cafe in the Crypt. Public toilets are available on the west side of the square for a small fee, and the entire area is paved and accessible for visitors with limited mobility.

While the square is open all night, the famous fountains are typically switched off during the late evening and early morning hours. Security is generally light, but during major events, temporary barriers and bag checks may be implemented. A quirky highlight not to miss is the tiny stone box in the southeastern corner, which was once Britain’s smallest police station. While it is tempting to climb the lions for a photo, be aware that this is technically discouraged for safety and preservation reasons. The square is a popular spot for rallies, so if you see large crowds and banners, you may want to check local news for scheduled demonstrations. Finally, pigeons were once the square's most famous residents, but feeding them is now strictly prohibited to keep the area clean.

Trafalgar Square is one of the most accessible locations in London. The closest station is Charing Cross, which serves both the Bakerloo and Northern lines and has an exit that leads directly onto the square. Other nearby stations within a five-minute walk include Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. If you are arriving by national rail, Charing Cross mainline station is just a few steps away. Numerous bus routes, such as the 11, 15, and 139, stop at the square, making it easy to reach from any part of the city. For those who prefer a scenic walk, the square is perfectly positioned at the meeting point of The Mall, Whitehall, and the Strand, allowing for an easy stroll from Parliament Square or Covent Garden.