The Monument, London

This great Doric column is so slender that you can hardly distinguish it on the London skyline. Yet, there is nowhere better for a view of the whole city than at the top of this 61m monument to the Great Fire of London. It was built from 1671-1677 to commemorate the fire and to celebrate the rebuilding of a city devastated by the flames. At 202 feet, its height is the exact distance from its base to the bakers in Pudding Lane at which the fire began. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, architect of St. Paul's Cathedral, it is built of the finest Portland stone - a symbol in itself, as 6 million tons of this stone were used to restore the city after the fire.

The monument was initially used for experiments by the Royal Society, but it has long since been an attraction for tourists and Londoners alike. After climbing a mere 311 steps, you can stand on the balcony beneath the urn of flames, perched at the top of the tallest isolated column in the world, for one of the most spectacular views in London. 

The Monument to the Great Fire of London

Fish St Hill, London EC3R 8AH

Opening Time:

9:30AM–6PM Tuesday hours