I paid a visit to Trafalgar Square not too long ago. I was alone and enroute to meet my wife for lunch. As I came up out of the tube and onto the square, I found myself right in the middle of a huge demonstration. I must admit, I was caught off guard and had not expected what I had walked into. There were literally thousands of people at the square. I clearly recall thinking what a perfect day and place for an assembly, but why was I there? The fact that thousands of people were able to congregate and freely speak their mind without fear of government interference, intimidation, arrest, assault, or worse was nothing short of fantastic. I marveled at the idea that a government would build such a public space. I watched as the very professional Metropolitan police stood at ready, prepared for action should violence or criminal action erupt. Thankfully, their presence was duty enough on this day. As far as I could tell, the demonstration came and went without any serious incident. Afterwards, I finally caught up with my wife and related to her my morning surprise, over a late lunch. We both agreed, the experience was well worth the wait. Trafalgar Square has worn many faces throughout time. On this day, it wore a proud one for the UK , and I feel grateful that I was there to see it.


Good Journeys!

As a child I grew up with a fascination of Trafalgar Square, Anyone visiting the city for the first time must make this a priority place to visit. The monuments are staggeringly beautiful and it is a great outdoors location to have lunch by the fountains.

I only award 4 out of 5 stars as recent changes have spoiled Trafalgar Square for me. First and most important, the new 'modern art' piece with occupies the previously empty stand at the north-west point of the square. It is very much out of place and does not belong botched on to one of London's oldest and biggest war memorials. Second of all, several years ago Trafalgar Square was liberated of all of its pigeons. While some people may be grateful for this, I believe they were simply a part of the culture.

The best thing about Trafalgar Square is that it's free. It also has a rather cool fountain, and there are often free concerts being held during weekends and on holidays. The Olympics were also broadcast for free. There are some interesting statues (though London is full of statues every where you turn) and you're right on the doorstep of the National Gallery (also free). It's a lot smaller than you might expect, and my aunts were really dissapointed in it when they were here for a visit. I guess it's one of those things that you can say, "Hey, I did that. I was there." Interesting, but not really a "must see".

Trafalgar Square is not only a beautiful place, but also a great starting point for walking to major sites in London. I typically start my trips to London here or at Piccadilly Circus. The National Gallery is located here (free admission!), and many foreign embassies are located around the square, including the Canadian embassy and the South African embassy (I've had to use both!). I've never felt unsafe here despite what's going on. I've seen demonstrations, concerts, and other random things and even when walking here at night I've always felt safe. Definitely a place to visit.