Theme: Francis Drake, his life and deeds

10 facts about Trafalgar Square:

1. The Battle of Trafalgar

Ever wondered why it’s called ‘Trafalgar Square’ in the first place? The famous square within easy reach of the Park Grand London Paddington is named after the Battle of Trafalgar, one of Britain’s most famous military victories. The battle was fought on the 21st October 1805, though Trafalgar Square wasn’t opened until 1844.

2. Trafalgar Square Pigeons

The square was once known as the adopted home of thousands of pigeons, but in the early 2000s, the then-Mayor banned feeding them, in the hope of driving down numbers. Today, the population has dropped dramatically, but you’ll still see pigeons feature heavily in historic artwork and photography of Trafalgar Square.

3. Nelson’s Column

Arguably the true ‘centerpiece’ of Trafalgar Square, Nelson’s Column was built in commemoration of Admiral Horatio, Lord Nelson, a famed naval commander who led British troops to win the Battle of Trafalgar. The column stands at 14ft 6 inches, and underwent a full refurbishment in 2006, helping to restore the monument to its former glory.

4. The Crown Estate

Trafalgar Square is part of the Queen’s Crown Estate, giving her de-facto ownership. The square is now managed by a combination of the Greater London authorities and Westminster City Council, who own the roads surrounding it.

5. Festive Traditions

The Christmas Tree at Trafalgar Square each year is a gift from the Norwegian government. This tradition is in honour of Britain’s involvement in assisting Norway during the Second World War, and if you’re staying at budget accommodation in London during the winter, it’s well-worth visiting this impressive piece of ongoing history.

6. The Fountains

Trafalgar Square is also known for its iconic fountains, which create a stunning water feature in the middle of the square. They haven’t always flowed as freely as they do today, however – in 2012, the fountains were turned off due to a summer drought.