Explore Trafalgar Square and Nearby Attractions
Trafalgar Square, in the heart of London, is surrounded by attractions that showcase the city's rich history and vibrant culture. From Piccadilly Circus to Covent Garden Market, this area is a hub for tourists seeking the quintessential London experience.
World-class museums, stylish shops, historic landmarks, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony are just a few of the highlights in this bustling district. For a comprehensive guide to the top attractions, tours, and hotels near Trafalgar Square, be sure to check online resources regularly.
See also: Where to Stay near Trafalgar Square
1. Trafalgar Square and Nelson's Column
Trafalgar Square is a must-visit, with Nelson's Column standing as a tribute to Lord Nelson's triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar. The column's height matches that of HMS Victory's main mast. Surrounding the column are fountains and bronze reliefs, along with statues of historical figures. The square is also known for demonstrations, seasonal events, and the Fourth Plinth, which hosts temporary art installations.
Admiralty Arch, near the square, is set to become a Waldorf Astoria hotel by 2023.
Official site: www.london.gov.uk/about-us/our-building-and-squares/trafalgar-square
2. Covent Garden Market
Covent Garden Market, a short walk from Trafalgar Square, is a bustling mix of shops and stalls in historic halls. The area is also home to the Royal Opera House and is famous for its street performers.
Address: Covent Garden Market Bldg, 130 King Street, London
Official site: https://coventmarket.com
3. Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus is a bustling intersection with the Shaftesbury Memorial and the statue of Anteros. The area is known for its high-end shops and is pedestrian-friendly.
4. London Transport Museum
The London Transport Museum offers a glimpse into the city's transport history with interactive exhibits suitable for all ages.
Address: Covent Garden Piazza, London
Official site: www.ltmuseum.co.uk
5. St. Martin-in-the-Fields
St. Martin-in-the-Fields is a Georgian church known for its music and architecture. It offers free noontime concerts and evening performances.
Location: Trafalgar Square, London
Official site: www.stmartin-in-the-fields.org
6. London Coliseum and Covent Garden Theaters
The London Coliseum and the Royal Opera House are among the cultural venues in Covent Garden, known for their performances and guided tours.
Address: St. Martin's Lane, London
Official site: https://londoncoliseum.org
7. Courtauld Institute Gallery
The Courtauld Institute Gallery, located in Somerset House, boasts an impressive collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist paintings.
Address: Somerset House, Strand, London
Official site: http://courtauld.ac.uk/gallery/about
8. The National Gallery & The National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery and the National Gallery house thousands of paintings and portraits of significant figures in English history.
Address: St. Martin's Place, Charing Cross, London
Official site: www.npg.org.uk
9. Benjamin Franklin House
The Benjamin Franklin House is a museum dedicated to the life and times of Benjamin Franklin, offering guided tours and live performances.
Address: 36 Craven Street, London
Official site: www.benjaminfranklinhouse.org
10. Golden Jubilee Footbridges
The Golden Jubilee Footbridges offer stunning views of London and are named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II's 50th anniversary as Queen.
11. Cleopatra's Needle and the Embankment
Cleopatra's Needle is an ancient Egyptian obelisk on the Thames Embankment, surrounded by the Victoria Embankment Gardens.
12. Horse Guards Parade
Horse Guards Parade is the site of the Changing of the Guard and the Household Cavalry Museum.
Address: Horse Guards, Whitehall, London
Official site: www.householdcavalrymuseum.co.uk
13. Leicester Square
Leicester Square is known for its cinemas and the TKTS booth, where you can purchase discounted theater tickets.
14. The (Dead) Actors' Church: St. Paul's
St. Paul's Church, also known as the Actors' Church, is famous for its memorials to notable actors and its tranquil garden.
Address: Bedford Street, Covent Garden, London
Official site: www.actorschurch.org
15. Institute of Contemporary Arts
The Institute of Contemporary Arts is a center for the promotion of contemporary art in various forms, offering exhibitions and programs that provoke thought and discussion.
Address: The Mall, St. James's, London
Official site: https://www.ica.art/
Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Trafalgar Square
- Tours of Trafalgar Square: Consider an 8.5-hour sightseeing tour that includes Trafalgar Square and other major attractions, with an option to include the London Eye.
- Getting Around on Your Own: The Tube is an efficient way to navigate London, with several stations located near Trafalgar Square.
Where to Stay near Trafalgar Square for Sightseeing
Accommodations near Trafalgar Square tend to be pricier due to their prime location. Here are some highly rated hotels in the area:
- Corinthia Hotel London overlooks the Embankment and is close to Trafalgar Square.
- Amba Hotel Charing Cross is steps away from Trafalgar Square and offers inclusive rates.
- Radisson Blu Edwardian Hampshire Hotel is ideally located for West End Theatres and shopping.
- Thistle Trafalgar Square, The Royal Trafalgar, is conveniently situated behind the National Gallery.
- The Z Hotel Piccadilly offers budget-friendly options.
