The Traveling Taylors

We thought Trafalgar Square was just another touristy plaza—until we started noticing the quirky details hiding in plain sight. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the fifth, these 7 surprising facts about Trafalgar Square will have you seeing this iconic space in a whole new way.

1. One of the Lion Statues Has a Human Paw

Legend has it that sculptor Sir Edwin Landseer had trouble finishing the lions and modeled one of the paws after a human foot. Look closely—they’re not all anatomically lion-like.

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2. There’s a Tiny Police Box in the Square

Near the southeast corner of Trafalgar Square sits what might be the smallest police station in London. Originally used to monitor protests, it’s now mostly used for storage—but still blends perfectly with the lamp post.

3. The Fountains Were Moved to Improve Visibility

The original fountains were repositioned in the 1930s to improve sight lines during events and reduce crowd congestion. The bronze sculptures on them were added later.

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4. The Fourth Plinth Hosts Rotating Art

While three plinths hold statues, the fourth remained empty for years. Now it features temporary, often provocative contemporary art installations that change every couple of years.

5. The Pigeons Were a Major Problem

Trafalgar Square was once overwhelmed by pigeons—so much so that feeding them was banned in 2003. Now you’ll still see a few birds, but not the swarms that used to dominate the area.

6. It’s the Epicenter of London Protests

Trafalgar Square is more than a photo op—it’s a place of political and social gathering. From anti-war protests to climate strikes, it’s one of London’s most iconic civic spaces.

7. It Has Royal Roots

The square is named after the Battle of Trafalgar, where Lord Nelson led Britain to victory in 1805. Nelson’s Column stands tall in the center as a tribute—and his actual ship, HMS Victory, is preserved in Portsmouth.

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Discover Trafalgar Square’s Hidden Layers

Next time you’re in Trafalgar Square, don’t just snap a selfie with the lions—look a little closer. From historic oddities to modern art statements, this plaza is a layered patchwork of London’s past, present, and personality.