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© Heloise Bergman

Trafalgar Square

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  • Trafalgar Square
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Time Out says

What is it?

Trafalgar Square – with its gargantuan, 52-metre-high Nelson’s Column – is one of London’s most iconic public spaces and perhaps the most ostentatious reminder of the nation’s former imperial might, commemorating Britain’s triumph in the Napoleonic Wars. It was once notorious for its large pigeon population, but like Louis XIV, they’ve now been seen off. From the 14th to 17th centuries, the site was home to the Royal Mews but once they moved to Buckingham Palace, John Nash stepped in to redesign the square. Officially opening in 1844, it remains much the same today, although in 2003, a pedestrianised area was added. 

Why go?

As well as Nelson's Column there's lots of history to soak up here. Have a look at the Trafalgar Square police box, which was the smallest police station in London, or throw a coin into the iconic central fountain, redesigned by Sir Edwin Lutyens in the 1930s.

Don't miss:

Throughout the year Trafalgar Square comes alive with events. And perhaps the best one for theatre fans is West End live. Showcasing some of the best music from shows both old and new, it is like Glastonbury for musical theatre. Oh, and it is completely free.

When to visit:

Trafalgar Square is open 24 hours a day to the public.

Ticket info:

No tickets are needed to enter.

Time Out tip:

Since 1947, the square has housed a sparkling Christmas tree, usually standing at a whopping 20 metres tall. It is arguably the most famous tree in the whole of London and has featured in several Christmas films and music videos.

Details

Address
London
WC2 5DN
Price:
Free
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What’s on

London Trans+ Pride

On Saturday July 26, central London will turn pink and blue as London Trans+ Pride celebrates its seventh year. This event will be extra-important this year, as UK trans rights have been jeopardised by a recent Supreme Court ruling.So it's time you showed up, whether you're part of the trans+ community or an ally. Full details haven't yet been confirmed, but in previous years, a parade has marched through central London, from Trafalgar Square to Hyde Park Corner’s Wellington Arch. Since 2019, the event has sought to honour the memory of trans lives taken, uphold the next generation of trans revolutionaries and support crucial trans rights. In previous years organisers have asked people taking part to wear flowers ”to honour the long legacy of transgender, non-binary, gender non-conforming and intersex people who came before us.” What is London Trans+ Pride? London Trans+ Pride began in 2019, as a grassroots alternative to the more commercial Pride marches that take place in the city over the summer. Its main focus is to provide a space for those who are transgender, non-binary, gender non-conforming people and intersex to make themselves heard by protesting against transphobic and archaic legislation and advocate for changes to trans health care, as well as celebrate trans lives past, present and future.  When is London Trans+ Pride this year? London Trans+ Pride will take place on Saturday July 26 2025. Details are tbc, but in previous years, participants have been asked...
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