The Monument to the Great Fire of London
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
The Monument to the Great Fire of London is a historic Doric column standing 61.6 metres tall at Fish Street Hill, commemorating the devastating 1666 fire that reshaped the city. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Robert Hooke, it offers visitors a climb of 311 steps to a panoramic viewing platform, where the story of London's resilience and rebirth is vividly celebrated.
A brief summary to Monument to the Great Fire of London
- Fish St Hill, London, EC3R 8AH, GB
- +442074033761
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and during school holidays.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the 311-step spiral staircase climb to the viewing platform.
- Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult to climb the Monument.
- Large bags are not permitted inside; leave belongings at the base of the staircase.
- Photography from the top can be challenging due to the protective mesh cage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Tube
Take the London Underground to Monument station on the District or Circle lines, with a 5-10 minute walk to the site. The station is well connected and accessible, though expect some stairs.
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Train
Use London Bridge or Fenchurch Street stations, both within a 10-15 minute walk. These stations serve multiple rail lines and offer frequent services from across London and the southeast.
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Bus
Several bus routes including 17, 21, 43, 48, 133, 141, 149, and 521 stop near London Bridge, providing convenient access with a short walk to the Monument.
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Car
Nearest car parks include Q-Park Bucklesbury House and Thames Exchange NCP. Parking in central London is limited and expensive; public transport is recommended.
Monument to the Great Fire of London location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Monument to the Great Fire of London
A Lasting Tribute to a City Transformed
The Monument to the Great Fire of London was constructed between 1671 and 1677 as a permanent memorial to the catastrophic fire that ravaged London in 1666. The blaze started in Thomas Farriner’s bakery on Pudding Lane and destroyed over 13,000 homes, numerous churches including the old St Paul’s Cathedral, and vital civic buildings. Despite the widespread destruction, remarkably few lives were lost. The Monument stands near the fire’s origin point, symbolizing both remembrance and the city’s remarkable recovery.Architectural Grandeur Rooted in History
Designed by the eminent architect Sir Christopher Wren and his assistant Robert Hooke, the Monument is a fluted Doric column made of Portland stone, rising 61.6 metres (202 feet) — a height equal to its distance from the bakery where the fire began. Atop the column sits a gilded urn of fire, symbolizing the flames that once engulfed the city. The base features detailed inscriptions in Latin and a sculptural relief depicting King Charles II, ‘Father Time,’ and a personification of the City of London rising from destruction, celebrating the rebuilding efforts.Scientific Ambitions and Unique Features
Beyond its commemorative purpose, the Monument was designed with scientific experimentation in mind. Beneath it, Wren and Hooke established a small laboratory intended to use the column as a zenith telescope for astronomical observations. However, vibrations from nearby traffic rendered the instrument ineffective. The interior houses a narrow spiral staircase of 311 steps leading to a viewing platform encased in a protective mesh cage, added in the 19th century to prevent suicides.A Panoramic Window Over London’s Skyline
Visitors who climb the Monument are rewarded with sweeping 360-degree views of London’s iconic skyline, including the River Thames and landmarks such as Tower Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral. The ascent is physically engaging but manageable, with resting alcoves along the way. Upon reaching the top, visitors receive a certificate commemorating their achievement, making the climb a memorable part of the experience.Location and Visitor Experience
Situated at the junction of Fish Street Hill and Monument Street, the Monument is surrounded by a lively area filled with cafes and eateries. It is accessible via the Monument Underground station and nearby London Bridge and Fenchurch Street stations. The site is open daily with seasonal hours and modest admission fees. The base of the column offers historical context through its inscriptions and reliefs, inviting reflection on the fire’s impact and London’s resilience.Preservation and Cultural Significance
As a Grade I-listed structure and scheduled monument, the Monument has undergone numerous restorations to preserve its stonework and gilding. It remains a potent symbol of London’s endurance and the spirit of renewal. The Monument not only commemorates a pivotal moment in the city’s history but also stands as a testament to architectural ingenuity and scientific curiosity of the 17th century.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
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For the architecture buff
- Historic
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
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For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
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For the eco-conscious traveler
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For the kind of experience you’re after
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
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Location Audience
- Family Friendly
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- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
