Some call it the heart of the city: Trafalgar Square was built in the 1830's to commemorate Admiral Nelson's victory at the Battle of Trafalgar; his statue tops a 185-ft. column in the square, above. Around the base of the column are four giant bronze lions.
Pigeons and people flock to the square: it's part shabby, part regal, and definitely a must-see.
To one side of the Square is the National Gallery, which has a vast art collection including many fine works by Turner. For families, The National Gallery has free talks, workshops, and drawing events for families, on weekends and during holidays; also "family trails".
Plus, the National Gallery is FREE, like so many of London's top museums.
Also by Trafalgar Square is the church of St. Martin's in the Field, known to classical music lovers as the site of many recorded concerts. Free lunchtime concerts are offered regularly.
Perhaps one parent can imbibe art or music, while the other watches pigeons with the kiddies outside?
*photos (c) Teresa Plowright
