It was built in the early 19th century to commemorate Britain’s naval victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, a defining moment in British history led by Admiral Lord Nelson. At the centre of the square stands the towering Nelson’s Column, a tribute to the admiral, surrounded by four majestic lion statues. Over the years, Trafalgar Square has become not only a symbol of British heritage but also a gathering place for public celebrations, political demonstrations, and cultural events.
With its close proximity to key landmarks like the National Gallery, St Martin-in-the-Fields church, and several theatres, Trafalgar Square is a hub of activity, drawing both locals and tourists to enjoy its grandeur.
Just a stone’s throw from the history of this monument, you’ll find one of London’s most historic restaurants near Trafalgar Square. Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill offers a sanctuary of culinary excellence amid the buzz of central London. Trafalgar Square, known for its vibrant energy, iconic landmarks, and cultural attractions, is the beating heart of the city, drawing visitors in after a day exploring the square’s rich history.
Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is a historic and bustling public square in central London, serving as a major landmark and cultural hub. Positioned at the crossroads of several key streets, including Charing Cross, The Strand, and Whitehall, the square is just steps away from some of London’s most iconic attractions, such as the National Gallery and St Martin-in-the-Fields church. Famous for its central feature, Nelson’s Column, which was erected to commemorate Admiral Lord Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The towering monument is also flanked by four imposing bronze lion statues and is now a symbol of Britain’s naval prowess and national pride.
Originally designed by architect John Nash and completed in the 1840s, Trafalgar Square was intended to be a grand public space celebrating British victories. Over the years, it has evolved into much more than a commemorative site—it has become a central gathering point for political demonstrations, public celebrations, and cultural events, from New Year’s Eve festivities to art installations on the Fourth Plinth. With its stunning fountains, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere, Trafalgar Square is a must-visit destination that encapsulates the spirit of London’s past and present.
Places to eat near Trafalgar Square
One of the best places to eat near Trafalgar Square, Bentley’s has been a staple of London’s culinary heritage since 1916, serving the freshest seafood for over a century. Tucked away on Swallow Street, just minutes from Trafalgar Square, we offer a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle, with a focus on delivering fresh, delicious seafood food and the finest seasonal ingredients. Under the guidance of renowned Chef Richard Corrigan, we’ve upheld our founding principles: sustainability, traceability, and respect for quality ingredients. Our menu champions wild, line-caught fish and hand-reared meats, and we proudly serve an unparalleled selection of oysters, both wild and native.
Our menus are carefully crafted to showcase the very best that the British and Irish Isles have to offer, paired with hearty, seasonal produce from trusted local suppliers. Whether you're after a full dining experience or something light before a show, we’ve got a menu to suit every occasion. Our À La Carte menu brings together the best from both the sea and land across our native shores, with dishes that highlight fresh, sustainable seafood alongside prime British meats. From expertly shucked oysters to wild-caught fish, we offer something to please every diner. For a more curated experience, our Best of Bentley’s menu is a celebration of our finest offerings, served with a complimentary glass of champagne. Available from 12pm to 3pm, Monday to Friday, this lunch option is ideal for those seeking a taste of Bentley’s at its best. It’s a chance to enjoy standout dishes, prepared with the same dedication to freshness and sustainability, in a refined yet relaxed setting.
The Pre-Theatre menu is another popular choice for those looking to enjoy a meal before catching a show in London’s nearby West End. Available when prebooked, this menu is designed to offer a quick yet satisfying dining experience without compromising on quality. With an emphasis on fresh seafood, including oysters, and seasonal ingredients, it’s the perfect way to begin an evening in London’s theatre district.
Across all of our menus, Bentley’s continues to champion the best seafood from the British and Irish Isles, paired with produce that reflects the changing seasons, delivering an unforgettable dining experience every time.
View Our Drink Menu
Our drinks menu is just as thoughtfully curated as our food, offering a fantastic selection of wines, spirits, and cocktails that perfectly complement each dish. Our wine list is particularly renowned, featuring a diverse range of options from crisp whites to robust reds, carefully sourced from some of the world’s best vineyards. Whether indulging in oysters, fresh seafood, or a hearty meat dish, there’s always the perfect wine to enhance your dining experience. Our expert staff are always on hand to assist in choosing the right pairing, ensuring that each sip elevates the flavours on your plate. Whether it’s a bright, mineral white to complement our fresh shellfish or a full-bodied red to pair with our prime British meats, we’ll help you find the ideal match.
In addition to our extensive wine selection, Bentley’s also boasts a fully stocked bar, offering a wide range of spirits, from classic gins and whiskeys to more unique craft options. Additionally, our cocktails are crafted with the same care and attention as our food, with choices like the Aperol and Campari Spritz, Pimms, or simply a glass of something soft. Whether you're in the mood for a refreshing aperitif or a sophisticated nightcap, you can rest assured that every dish has a perfect partner to enhance your dining experience at Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill.
Conveniently located
You will find us just a short stroll from the iconic Trafalgar Square. Nestled on Swallow Street, between the bustling streets of Piccadilly and Regent Street, it’s an easy walk from the cultural landmarks of Trafalgar Square, including the National Gallery and Nelson’s Column. This prime location makes us the perfect stop for both locals and visitors seeking out the best places to eat near Trafalgar Square.
If you're near Trafalgar Square, it’s only a 10-15 minute walk via Pall Mall or along Piccadilly. For those using public transport, the closest Underground stations are Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines) and Green Park (Jubilee, Victoria, and Piccadilly lines), both just a few minutes away. Buses also serve the surrounding area, making Bentley’s easily accessible from anywhere in the city. Whether you're out sightseeing or heading to the West End for a show, you’ll find Bentley’s to be the perfect central location for a memorable meal in London’s vibrant heart.