Trafalgar Square...

From the 14th to the late 17th century, much of the area occupied by Trafalgar Square was the courtyard of the Great Mews stabling, which served Whitehall Palace.

In the early 18th century, the mews was put out of use by the Royal Household and the area was cleared. In 1812 the architect John Nash set about developing a new concept for the space as part of his improvement plans for London. He wanted to develop ‘a new street from Charing Cross to Portland Place … forming an open square in the Kings Mews opposite Charing Cross’. He wanted the space to be a cultural space, open to the public. In 1830, it was officially named Trafalgar Square.

In the centre of the square stands Nelson's Column, built to commemorate Admiral Nelson, who was killed during his victorious battle against Napoleon's navy off Trafalgar in Spain in 1805. At the top of the 56 metre high column is a statue of Nelson with one arm and one eye which he lost in battle. On October 21st each year a service is held to commemorate Nelson. At Christmas time Norway always   sends a huge Christmas tree that stands in the square, as a token of gratitude for Britain's help during the Second World war. Trafalgar Square is also the centre of London's New Year's celebrations when thousands of party goers herald in the New Year.