Fourth Plinth

Fourth Plinth London: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Standing in the northwest corner of Trafalgar Square, the Fourth Plinth has evolved from an unfinished monument to a celebrated stage for contemporary public art. Initially conceived in the 1840s to display a statue of King William IV, the plinth remained empty for more than 150 years due to funding constraints and shifting priorities. Today, it is a dynamic symbol of London’s openness to creative expression and public discourse, offering a unique blend of historical resonance and artistic innovation (Londonhua WIKI; Art UK).

This guide provides a detailed overview of the Fourth Plinth’s historical context, its transformation into a contemporary art platform, and essential tips for visitors. Whether you are passionate about art, history, or simply curious, the Fourth Plinth offers an ever-changing window into London’s vibrant culture.

Introduction
Historical Background
The Fourth Plinth Contemporary Art Programme
Notable Artworks and Their Impact
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Visitor Tips and Nearby Attractions
Public Engagement and Selection Process
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Sources

Historical Background

Trafalgar Square and Its Monuments

Trafalgar Square, completed in the early 1840s, was designed by Sir Charles Barry as a monumental space celebrating Britain’s naval triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar. Four plinths were constructed for statues of significant historical figures: three were filled—King George IV, General Sir Charles James Napier, and Major-General Sir Henry Havelock—while the northwest plinth remained vacant (Londonhua WIKI).

The Unfinished Plinth: 1841–1998

The original plan for an equestrian statue of King William IV stalled due to insufficient funding (Art UK). Over the decades, the plinth’s emptiness became a subject of speculation and debate, eventually symbolizing both incompletion and creative potential.

From Vacancy to Vision

Repeated proposals throughout the 19th and 20th centuries failed to yield a permanent monument. In 1985, a Royal Society of Arts (RSA) survey concluded that no single figure could adequately represent London’s diversity. This insight paved the way for a more inclusive and evolving vision for the plinth (Londonhua WIKI).

The Fourth Plinth Contemporary Art Programme

Inception and Early Commissions

The transformation began in 1998, when the RSA initiated the Fourth Plinth Project, inviting artists to propose temporary installations (Art UK). The initial works—Mark Wallinger’s “Ecce Homo,” Bill Woodrow’s “Regardless of History,” and Rachel Whiteread’s “Monument”—set a precedent for challenging and thought-provoking art in public spaces.

Mayoral Oversight and Ongoing Commissions

Since 2003, the Greater London Authority and the Mayor’s Fourth Plinth Commissioning Group have managed the programme. Supported by Arts Council England and Bloomberg Philanthropies, new commissions are selected biennially, often following public exhibitions of shortlisted proposals (BBC News; ianVisits).

Selection Process and Public Involvement

Art experts, city officials, and community representatives form the commissioning group. Public feedback, gathered through exhibitions and online platforms, is central to the selection of new works, ensuring the programme resonates with London’s diverse population (BBC News).

Notable Artworks and Their Impact

The plinth has featured a striking range of temporary commissions, each addressing contemporary themes and sparking public dialogue (Artnet News; Secret London).

Landmark Installations

Mark Wallinger, Ecce Homo (1999): A vulnerable Christ figure, challenging the tradition of heroic monuments (elearncollege).
Rachel Whiteread, Monument (2001): An inverted resin cast of the plinth itself, exploring memory and absence (Guide London).
Marc Quinn, Alison Lapper Pregnant (2005): Celebrated disability and diversity through a monumental marble sculpture.
Yinka Shonibare, Nelson’s Ship in a Bottle (2010–2012): A model of HMS Victory with African textile sails, examining British colonial history (Londonist).
Antony Gormley, One & Other (2009): Invited 2,400 people to occupy the plinth for one hour each, democratizing public space (Londonist).
Heather Phillipson, THE END (2020–2022): A surreal melting ice cream cone topped with a drone, commenting on modern excess (Google Arts & Culture).
Samson Kambalu, Antelope (2022–2024): A double portrait referencing anti-colonial activism in Malawi (London x London).
Teresa Margolles, Mil Veces un Instante (2024–2026): 726 plaster casts of faces from trans and gender non-conforming people worldwide, forming a powerful collective memorial (BBC News).

Upcoming Commissions

Tschabalala Self, Lady in Blue (2026–2028): A bronze sculpture of a young woman of color, challenging traditional monument conventions (ArtReview).
Andra Ursuţa, Untitled (2028–2030): A translucent resin equestrian statue draped in a shroud, exploring memory and the impermanence of monuments (Ocula).

These works have established the Fourth Plinth as a catalyst for dialogue on identity, history, power, and social justice (Secret London).

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Location

The Fourth Plinth is in Trafalgar Square, central London (WC2N 5DN), within walking distance of Charing Cross, Leicester Square, and Piccadilly Circus Underground stations.

Visiting Hours

Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The plinth is outdoors and can be visited at any time; daytime visits are recommended for optimal visibility.

Tickets and Admission

Free admission; no tickets required.
Viewing the Fourth Plinth and all Trafalgar Square monuments is free to the public (Official Fourth Plinth Website).

Accessibility

The area is fully accessible, with ramps, smooth pavements, and tactile paving.
Nearby Tube stations and public transport options are accessible to wheelchair users.

Photography and Digital Resources

Photography is encouraged at all times.
Enhance your visit with the Bloomberg Connects app, which offers digital guides and audio tours (Google Arts & Culture).

Visitor Tips and Nearby Attractions

Best Times to Visit: Daylight hours provide the best viewing conditions; evenings offer a dramatic atmosphere with fewer crowds.
Guided Tours: Many London walking tours include the Fourth Plinth and Trafalgar Square. Check with tour operators or the Mayor of London’s visitor services.
Nearby Landmarks: The National Gallery, Nelson’s Column, St Martin-in-the-Fields Church, and Covent Garden are all nearby and worth exploring.
Events: Special events, talks, and educational programs are occasionally held around the plinth. Check official sites for updates.

Public Engagement and Selection Process

The selection of Fourth Plinth commissions is highly participatory. Shortlisted maquettes are exhibited at the National Gallery and online, allowing public feedback before final selections are made. This process ensures that the plinth continues to reflect the interests and diversity of London’s population (ArtReview).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for the Fourth Plinth?
A: The plinth is accessible 24/7 as part of Trafalgar Square.

Q: Is there an admission fee or do I need tickets?
A: No, visiting is free and does not require tickets.

Q: Is the site accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the square and the plinth are fully wheelchair accessible.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Photography is encouraged.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, several walking tours of Trafalgar Square include the Fourth Plinth.

Conclusion

The Fourth Plinth exemplifies London’s dynamic relationship with history, art, and public space. Its evolution from an empty monument to a platform for cutting-edge, socially relevant art reflects the city’s commitment to cultural dialogue and inclusivity. With free, year-round access and a continuous rotation of thought-provoking installations, the Fourth Plinth is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring London’s rich cultural heritage.

Stay updated on new commissions, events, and visitor resources by downloading the Audiala app, following official channels, and exploring further reading on London’s landmarks.