Charing Cross is officially recognized as the center of London. A plaque marks the spot at the top of Whitehall, at the south of Trafalgar Square. The plaque reads:
"On the site now occupied by the statue of King Charles I was erected the original Queen Eleanor's cross a replica of which stands in front of Charing Cross station. Mileages from London are measured from the site of the original cross."
"On the site now occupied by the statue of King Charles I was erected the original Queen Eleanor's cross a replica of which stands in front of Charing Cross station. Mileages from London are measured from the site of the original cross."
A Victorian replica cross now stands outside Charing Cross station on the Strand, to the east of the square. It is based on drawings of the original cross but is larger and more ornate than the original.
Predating all of Trafalgar Square is the equestrian statue of Charles I, completed in 1663, to the south of Nelson's Column. The statue was rescued by Charles II after being hidden during the Civil War.
Also see: Plaque in Trafalgar Square.