The Monument to the Great Fire of London is a stone column on Fish Street Hill in the City of London, commemorating the fire of 1666 and the city’s rebuilding. Designed by Christopher Wren and Robert Hooke, it was completed in 1677. Climb 311 spiral steps to the viewing platform for rooftops, the Thames and landmarks including Tower Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral. The platform is compact and enclosed by a mesh fence, so the climb may not suit you if you dislike heights.
A memorial to the 1666 fire
The Great Fire began in a bakery on Pudding Lane in September 1666 and devastated much of the City of London. The Monument commemorates both the disaster and the rebuilding that followed. Its position on Fish Street Hill places it close to the fire’s reported starting point.
Designed by Christopher Wren and Robert Hooke, the Doric column was built between 1671 and 1677. It rises 202 feet and is topped by a gilded urn. In the years after the fire, much of the medieval city was rebuilt, with many buildings adopting classical designs. The Monument is one of the lasting reminders of that period of change.
The column and its inscriptions
Pause at the base before going inside. The column’s inscriptions explain its commemorative purpose, while its scale is easier to appreciate from the pavement than from the viewing platform. Look up to see the gilded ornament at the top.
The Monument is a stone structure, not a lift-accessed viewpoint. Its narrow, winding stairway leads upward through the column, so the ascent is part of the visit. There are 311 steps in total. Take your time, particularly when passing other climbers on the way up or down.
The climb and the view
At the top, a public viewing platform looks across the City and the Thames. Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, HMS Belfast and the Shard are among the landmarks visible from above. The view brings historic buildings and newer City towers into the same frame.
The platform is small and enclosed by mesh, which limits how freely you can move around it. If heights make you uncomfortable, you may prefer to admire the column from below. For the climb, leave your bags at the bottom and pace yourself on the stairs. Early or later visits can help you avoid queues during busier periods. Tickets are available on site; check the official website for current visitor information.
Perguntas frequentes
How many steps are there at the Monument?
There are 311 steps in the spiral staircase to the viewing platform.
What can you see from the top?
The platform looks over the City of London and the Thames, with landmarks including Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, HMS Belfast and the Shard.
Is the viewing platform suitable if you are afraid of heights?
The platform is high, compact and enclosed by mesh. If heights make you uncomfortable, you may prefer to see the column from street level.
Can you buy tickets at the Monument?
Tickets are sold on site. Check the official website for current visitor information.
