Nestled in the south-east corner of Trafalgar Square, just moments from Charing Cross station's busy exit, stands what many consider Britain's most discreet police station. This remarkably compact structure has been hiding in plain sight for nearly a century, with countless visitors walking past without ever noticing its existence.
The Birth of Britain's Smallest Police Station
Constructed in 1926, this miniature police box was designed to hold up to two prisoners simultaneously, though its primary function was to house a single officer responsible for monitoring the area during public disturbances. Essentially serving as a 1920s version of modern CCTV, the station represented an innovative approach to urban surveillance.
The need for such a facility emerged following frequent protests and demonstrations in Trafalgar Square during the aftermath of World War I. Initially, the Metropolitan Police had placed a temporary police box outside Trafalgar Square Tube station to help manage unruly crowds, but they soon determined that a more permanent solution was necessary.
A Clever Disguise and Limited Practicality
When plans for a more substantial police box met with public resistance, authorities devised a clever alternative. They transformed an existing ornamental light fitting in the square, equipping it with slim windows that allowed for discreet surveillance of the surrounding area.
Inside the compact space, police installed a direct telephone line to Scotland Yard for emergency communications. The light atop the box would flash whenever the police telephone was in use, signalling to nearby officers that their attention was required.
Despite its innovative design, the station's practical limitations quickly became apparent. During riots and larger disturbances, the solitary officer inside found themselves dangerously exposed, leading to the station's relatively short operational life with the Metropolitan Police.
From Police Station to Cleaning Cupboard
Today, this unique piece of London's history has been repurposed in a rather humble manner. The former police station now serves as a broom cupboard for Westminster City Council cleaners, providing storage for cleaning equipment rather than housing officers.
Contrary to popular local legend, the light fixture atop the station didn't originate from Nelson's famous warship HMS Victory. It actually features a 'Bude light' design created by Sir Goldsworthy Gurney. These innovative lights were once common throughout London, even being used to illuminate the Houses of Parliament.
Next time you find yourself exploring Trafalgar Square, take a moment to seek out this fascinating slice of London's policing history. You can discover this charming former police station at 44 Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DP - if you can spot it, that is!
