London Guide
Trafalgar Square
As one of the few large public squares in London, Trafalgar Square has been both a tourist attraction and the main focus for political demonstrations for over a century and a half. The first major demo was held in 1848 when the Chartists assembled at the square to demand universal suffrage before marching to Kennington Common, and since then countless demos and rallies have been held. To keep an eye on the proceedings, a police phone box was built into one of the stone bollards in the southeast corner of the square, with a direct link to Scotland Yard.
Nowadays, most folk come here to see Nelson's Column, or to visit the National Gallery, though there are also various events, commemorations and celebrations staged here throughout the year. Each December, the square is graced with a giant Christmas tree covered in fairy lights, donated by Norway in thanks for Britain's support during World War II. Until recently, Trafalgar Square was also the city's traditional gathering point on New Year's Eve, though the focus has now shifted to the Thames, where a spectacular firework display is held each year.