There is definitely no doubt about the fact that the world automatically associates Trafalgar Square with England and London. This monument, situated in Central London, is not only a major tourist attraction, but also a matter of national pride. In the 1820s, it was John Nash who was responsible for the first layout of the square. The construction began in 1829, but developments were still being made in 1840. It was built in the memory of Admiral Nelson, after the Spanish Cape Trafalgar, where he won his last battle. In the centre of the square is the Nelson’s Column, surrounded by fountains which Sir Edwin Lutyens designed.
Official Site for Trafalgar Square: www.london.gov.uk/trafalgarsquare/
There is a lot to visit, but one of the ‘typical’ tourist attractions as well as a past time for Londoners was the feeding of the pigeons in the square. However, their desirability declined due to health hazards and the mess that was created by their droppings. In 2003 Ken Livingstone enacted bylaws to prevent this practice from continuing. Presently, to a large extent it is rented to film companies and used for festivals, which was practically impossible during the nineties.
To the north of the square is the National Gallery. On the eastern side is South Africa House, which has African animals on the stone arches. Canada House is also situated close by and visiting Canadians can make use of a host of facilities here. Ever since the chartists gathered in Trafalgar Square in 1848, this has become the chosen spot for all manner of demonstrators and marchers – all espousing some particular cause.
At the four corners of the square are four plinths. The two in the north are somewhat wider as they were intended to be equestrian statues. On the lawn in front of the National gallery there are two statues – the King James II to the west and George Washington to the east. The latter statue was gifted by the State of Virginia and is on soil that was imported from the United States.
Since 1947, Christmas has been celebrated here every year. As a symbol of gratitude for the support Britain extended during World War II, Oslo gifts a Norway Spruce, which is presented as London’s Christmas tree. As part of the tradition, the Lord Mayor of Westminster visits Oslo in the late autumn and participates in the chopping down the tree. The Mayor of Oslo then goes to London to light the tree at the Christmas ceremony. The climax to a number of sports events and New Year celebrations also take place here.
Accommodation in Central London within any budget is readily available. There are package deals for rooms and hostels too can be found to suit every wallet. You need not bother about going to any agency or wear yourself out pinpointing hotels that might fit the bill. Your vacation will be according to the rates that best suit your budget. There is a choice of the best hotels in London like the Citadines Apartments, Radisson Edwardian Pastoria Hotel or St Martins Lane. All the hotels are handpicked and categorized as cheap hotels, bed & breakfast, luxury hotels, central london hotels – all that remains is for you to click and choose. Our deals give you a chance to think about how far your hotel is from the market or even the Wembley! The choice of living in star comfort or hostels is your decision. You save on commuting, expenses etc as hotels booked through this agency always keep your every convenience in mind. We make your first step to the UK, the choice of a place to stay very smooth and trouble free.
