Nelson's Column: London's Iconic Naval Monument
A towering tribute in Trafalgar Square honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and enduring legacy in British history.
Nelson's Column is a towering monument in Trafalgar Square, London, commemorating Admiral Horatio Nelson's victory and sacrifice at the 1805 Battle of Trafalgar. Standing 52 meters tall, the granite column supports a 5.5-meter sandstone statue of Nelson, surrounded by four bronze lions and reliefs depicting his naval battles. Erected between 1840 and 1843, it remains a symbol of British naval prowess and a focal point for public gatherings and celebrations.
A brief summary to Nelson's Column
- A400 Trafalgar Square, London, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late evening for fewer crowds and excellent photo opportunities.
- Explore the surrounding Trafalgar Square to enjoy fountains, statues, and the nearby National Gallery.
- Attend the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in early December for a festive experience.
- Look out for the bronze relief panels at the base, each depicting a key naval battle won by Nelson.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Charing Cross station on the Bakerloo or Northern lines, approximately a 5-10 minute walk to Trafalgar Square. The station is well-served and accessible, with frequent trains costing around £2.50–£5.00 depending on the ticket type.
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Bus
Multiple London bus routes stop near Trafalgar Square, including routes 3, 6, 9, 11, and 15. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with fares typically £1.75 using an Oyster or contactless card. Note that traffic congestion may affect travel times.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Licensed London black cabs and ride-hailing services provide direct access to Trafalgar Square. Travel times vary by traffic but generally range from 10 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Fares start around £7 and increase with distance and time.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Trafalgar Square offers a pleasant experience through central London streets, typically taking 10-20 minutes from areas like Covent Garden or Leicester Square. The terrain is flat and suitable for all fitness levels.
Nelson's Column location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Nelson's Column
A Tribute to a Naval Hero
Nelson's Column honors Admiral Horatio Nelson, one of Britain's greatest naval commanders, who died at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. This decisive naval victory against the combined French and Spanish fleets established British naval supremacy. The monument was conceived decades after Nelson's death, with construction spanning from 1840 to 1843, funded mainly by private donations and international support, including from the Tsar of Russia. The statue atop the column, sculpted from sandstone by Edward Hodges Baily, stands 5.5 meters tall and faces down Whitehall, symbolically looking toward the Admiralty and the HMS Victory at Portsmouth.Architectural and Artistic Features
Designed by architect William Railton, the column is made from granite and measures approximately 52 meters in height. The base is adorned with four large bronze relief panels cast from captured French guns, each depicting one of Nelson’s famous naval victories: the Battles of Cape St Vincent, the Nile, Copenhagen, and Trafalgar. These panels were created by different sculptors between 1849 and 1854. Surrounding the base are four imposing bronze lions sculpted by Sir Edwin Landseer and cast by Carlo Marochetti in 1867, which have become iconic symbols of British strength and courage.Historical and Cultural Significance
Nelson's Column stands at the heart of Trafalgar Square, a public space developed in the 19th century on the site of the former royal mews. The square and column have witnessed numerous historic events, from celebrations marking the end of World War I to political protests and public gatherings. The monument survived World War II intact despite Nazi plans to relocate it to Berlin if Britain was invaded. Today, it remains a potent emblem of British naval heritage and imperial history.Public Interaction and Traditions
In the 19th century, steeplejacks would climb the column on Trafalgar Day to crown Nelson with a laurel wreath, a tradition now observed at ground level with wreaths laid at the base. The column has also been a site for political activism and stunts, including Greenpeace protests. Trafalgar Square itself is known for hosting major events such as New Year’s Eve celebrations and the annual Christmas tree lighting, a gift from Norway since 1947.Setting and Surroundings
The column is centrally located in Trafalgar Square, surrounded by fountains, statues, and the National Gallery to the north. The square is a bustling hub of London life, known for its historic architecture, public art, and as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. The area combines cultural heritage with lively urban energy, making Nelson's Column a must-see landmark.Symbolism and Legacy
Nelson's Column symbolizes British naval dominance and national pride. The monument’s bronze lions, reliefs, and towering statue collectively narrate a story of military achievement and sacrifice. It continues to inspire reflection on Britain's maritime history and its role on the world stage, standing as a timeless tribute to a revered hero and the legacy of the British Empire.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nelson's Column
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A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson’s naval triumph, standing proudly at the heart of London’s historic Trafalgar Square.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
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A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
Admiralty Arch
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A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
16-18 Whitehall
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Explore 16-18 Whitehall, the historic site of England’s grandest royal palace and home to the stunning Banqueting House, a masterpiece of classical architecture.
Old Admiralty Building
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Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
Royal Marines Memorial
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A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
Captain James Cook
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Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
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Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
Eleanor Cross
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A Victorian Gothic Revival monument marking the final resting place of Queen Eleanor’s funeral procession, blending medieval legacy with London’s historic heart.
George Duke of Cambridge statue
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A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
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Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
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Guards Crimean War Memorial
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Mary Poppins Statue
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The Gurkha Soldier Statue
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A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
Unmissable attractions to see
London by Night Tours
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Discover London’s iconic landmarks aglow with night lights on an engaging open-top bus tour departing from historic Trafalgar Square.
5 Trafalgar Sq
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London’s iconic Trafalgar Square: a historic public plaza celebrating naval triumphs and vibrant civic life in the city’s heart.
The Fourth Plinth
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Canada House
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Grand Building
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A grand Victorian landmark on the Strand, transformed from a luxury hotel into a vibrant cultural and community hub in the heart of London.
The National Gallery
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Home to one of the world’s greatest collections of Western European paintings, this grand London gallery offers free access to masterpieces from the 13th to the early 20th century.
St Martin-in-the-Fields
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An iconic neoclassical church at Trafalgar Square blending rich history, architectural brilliance, and vibrant cultural life in central London.
The Ghost Bus Tours
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Dark comedy meets London history on a theatrical double-decker bus tour through the capital's most sinister stories.
National Portrait Gallery
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Explore the world’s largest portrait collection showcasing British history and culture in a welcoming, accessible London landmark.
Edith Cavell Memorial
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A solemn tribute in central London honoring Edith Cavell’s courage, compassion, and sacrifice during World War I.
Benjamin Franklin House
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Step inside the only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin and experience 18th-century London through immersive tours and rich history.
Charing Cross
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Charing Cross and the Strand: a historic London gateway blending culture, theatre, and vibrant city life along a legendary riverside street.
London Coliseum
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Experience grand Edwardian theatre and world-class opera and ballet at the iconic London Coliseum in the heart of London’s West End.
Solve A Mystery - London (Pick-Up Point)
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Garrick Theatre
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Experience timeless West End theatre in the intimate, historic Garrick Theatre, where classic charm meets captivating performances.
Essential places to dine
Ekstedt at The Yard
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Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
The Garden
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A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
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Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Wild Honey St James
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Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
J Sheekey
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Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
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Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Bustronome London
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Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
Rules
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London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
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Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Clos Maggiore
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Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
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Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Evelyn's Table
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Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Palm Court Brasserie
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Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
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Meet Fresh
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Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crest of London Ltd
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Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
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Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Gifts of London
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Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Unique Britain
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Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Cool Britania
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Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
M&M'S London
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Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
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Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Floral Street
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Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Lillywhites
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London's iconic sports megastore at Piccadilly Circus—where athletic excellence meets retail tradition.
St Martin's Courtyard
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House of Spells
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Henry Pordes Books Ltd
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Charing Cross Rd
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The Moomin Shop London
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Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
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Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Shades
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The Harp, Covent Garden
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The Spy Bar
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Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
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All Bar One Leicester Square
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Blind Spot London
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Mr Fogg's Tavern
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Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
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Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
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The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
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Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
All Bar One Covent Garden
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Ku Bar
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Upstairs At Rules
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Covent Garden Social Club
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Mrs Riot
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
TSQ Club
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Heaven
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Tiger Tiger London
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The Penthouse London
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A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Luxe Club
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Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
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Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
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London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
The Ivy Club
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Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
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The Scotch of St James
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Sophisticats Soho
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Versity Camp Nightclub
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Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
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The Box Soho
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Proud Late
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Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly