The Monument to the Great Fire of London

About

Standing proudly on a stone terrace between Fish Street Hill and Monument Street, The Monument to the Great Fire of London is a 202‑foot fluted Doric column that commemorates the 1666 conflagration that devastated the city. Designed by Dr Robert Hooke in collaboration with Sir Christopher Wren, the column was completed in 1677 and crowned with a gilded urn that is still visible today. The 311‑step spiral staircase leads visitors to a public viewing platform at 160 ft, where they can enjoy sweeping panoramic views of London from the iconic landmarks of the London Eye and Tower Bridge to distant horizons. The west face of the monument bears a richly carved frieze that narrates the events of the Great Fire, the city's response, and its eventual recovery, providing a tangible link to the past. Along the base, inscriptions in Latin commemorate the fire’s devastation and the efforts of the City’s leaders. Visitors also experience the monument’s scientific heritage, as the original internal shaft was intended as a zenith telescope and gravity laboratory, although modern experiments have since replaced this purpose.

Highlights

• 311 Spiral Steps
• Golden Urn
• 360‑Degree Views
• Ancient Frieze

Must-See Areas

Good to Know

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 2 hours

Tickets & pricing