Monument to the Great Fire London
A towering memorial to London's Great Fire, offering stunning city views after a challenging climb.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Monument to the Great Fire London
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A towering memorial to London's Great Fire, offering stunning city views after a challenging climb.
"Amazing views and actually cheap - a hidden gem many don't know about!"
🎯 Conquer the 311 Steps
It's a climb! But you get a certificate for reaching the top. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Budget-Friendly Views
Inexpensive entry fee for stunning city panoramas. :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Panoramic View
Viewing Platform
Ascend 311 steps for breathtaking 360-degree views of London's iconic skyline.
The Monument Itself
Base of the Monument
Admire the impressive 202-foot tall Doric column, a grand memorial to the Great Fire of 1666.
The 'Ledge of Doom'
Viewing Platform
For the brave, step onto the small ledge for a thrilling, albeit slightly unnerving, perspective.
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb
Beat the Crowds & Costs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Conquer the 311 Steps
It's a climb! But you get a certificate for reaching the top. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Budget-Friendly Views
Inexpensive entry fee for stunning city panoramas. :moneywithwings:
📸 Capture the Skyline
Great photo ops from the top, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
📍 Location, Location, Location
The Monument's height (202ft) is symbolic, matching its distance from the Great Fire's origin. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Conquer the 311 Steps
It's a climb! But you get a certificate for reaching the top. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Budget-Friendly Views
Inexpensive entry fee for stunning city panoramas. :moneywithwings:
📸 Capture the Skyline
Great photo ops from the top, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
📍 Location, Location, Location
The Monument's height (202ft) is symbolic, matching its distance from the Great Fire's origin. :world_map:
🚶♂️ Explore Nearby
Consider visiting St. Magnus the Martyr church after your climb. :church:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Monument for its incredible value and breathtaking panoramic views of London, making the challenging climb up 311 steps a rewarding experience. While some find the ascent daunting, the historical significance and affordability make it a highly recommended attraction for those seeking iconic city vistas without a hefty price tag.
"A fantastic piece of London history that's well worth the visit. The monument itself is a beautiful and poignant reminder of the Great Fire of 1666. It's amazing to stand there and imagine what the city looked like from that same spot centuries ago. For the price, it's one of the best value attractions in London. You even get a certificate to commemorate your climb! A must-do for history buffs and anyone looking for an amazing view."
Khaqan Kundi
"Suggest you don't attempt to climb the monument if you're claustrophobic or unless you're reasonable fit! There is only one staircase so entry is limited until the group in front if you have all come down. We went at 2pm and were in the first group up after they reopened after lunch so there was no waiting. There are 311 stairs to climb in a spiral and it can be quite hard going. The view from the top is worth it but the views are just as good from Garden at 120 or Sky Garden (and there's a lift up to both of them)! There are no passing places either on the stairs or on the viewing platform so it can get a little crowded. That said, the Monument is an iconic memorial and you get a nice feeling when you look up from pavement level and say "I've climbed up there" Modest entry fee and a certificate available on the way out to say you climbed to the top."
Loraine Mackenzie-Williams
"Fantastic experience but definitely challenging. Walking up the stairs was difficult even for the youngsters. But viewing on the top of the tower amazing. You can't take your bags with you but there is space next to the ticket desk where you can leave all your backpacks etc. Walking down getting a bit painful but end of it is rewarding because they give you a certificate that you claim all 311 stairs.
Unfortunately due to the nature of the attraction, it is not suitable for people with mobility difficulties or people that use a wheelchair."
Ania Lyon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Monument is easily accessible via the London Underground. The nearest stations are Monument (Circle and District lines) and Bank (Central, Northern, Waterloo & City lines, and DLR). Several bus routes also stop nearby. :bus:
Yes, The Monument is a short walk from Tower Bridge, making it a great combination for a day of sightseeing. :bridgeatnight:
Driving in the City of London can be challenging due to congestion and limited parking. Public transport is highly recommended. :car:
The best way is to climb to the top for the views. Many visitors also enjoy learning about its history and significance as a memorial to the Great Fire of London. :scroll:
While there isn't a formal guided tour inside The Monument itself, many walking tours of the Great Fire of London will include it as a key stop and provide historical context. :walking: 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to The Monument is very affordable, typically around £4.50 to £6.00 per adult. It's considered great value for the views you get. :ticket:
You generally don't need to book tickets in advance for The Monument. You can usually purchase them on arrival. :calendar:
Opening hours can vary seasonally, but it's typically open daily from around 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM. It's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information. :clock1:
Some joint ticket offers might be available, especially during certain times or promotions. It's worth checking for combined ticket deals if you plan to visit both attractions. :money_bag:
Yes, visitors who successfully climb the 311 steps to the top often receive a certificate to commemorate their achievement. :medal:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The climb involves 311 narrow, winding steps. It can be challenging for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights, but many find it manageable and rewarding. :athletic_shoe:
From the viewing platform, you'll get stunning panoramic views of London, including landmarks like the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Shard. :cityscape:
No, there is no elevator at The Monument. The only way to reach the viewing platform is by climbing the 311 steps. :stairs:
The Monument stands at 202 feet tall, which is its exact distance from the bakery on Pudding Lane where the Great Fire of London began in 1666. :fire:
Restroom facilities are generally not available at the top of The Monument itself. It's advisable to use facilities before or after your visit. :toilet:
📸 📸 Photography
The viewing platform offers incredible panoramic shots of London. For ground-level photos, try framing the Monument with surrounding buildings or capturing its scale from a distance. :camerawithflash:
Yes, you can take photos from the viewing platform. Be mindful of other visitors and the narrow space. :iphone:
Visiting during off-peak hours (weekday mornings) can significantly reduce crowds, making it easier to get unobstructed photos. :sunrise:
Late afternoons during the 'golden hour' provide beautiful lighting for cityscapes. Weekday mornings offer fewer people for clearer shots. :sunwithface:
Generally, personal photography is allowed. Professional or commercial photography may require special permits. Always check for any posted signage. :memo:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for the narrow, winding stairs, and consider if your children have any fear of heights. There are no facilities at the top, so ensure everyone uses the restroom before ascending. It’s a memorable experience that combines history, physical activity, and stunning cityscapes, making it a great addition to a family's London itinerary.
💰 Budget Travelers
It’s a fantastic way to experience the city’s grandeur without breaking the bank. Combine your visit with a walk across nearby Tower Bridge for a full day of iconic sights that won't cost a fortune. Public transport is also very affordable, making the entire outing budget-friendly. :moneywithwings:
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The real photographic draw, however, is the 360-degree panorama from the viewing platform. Capturing the sprawling cityscape, including landmarks like the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, is a must. Visiting during the golden hour in the late afternoon provides stunning light, while weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Be prepared for the narrow space at the top and consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Great Fire of London and The Monument's Purpose
Beyond its commemorative role, The Monument also served a practical purpose in the late 17th century. It was used by the Royal Society for scientific experiments, including surveying and astronomical observations. The sheer scale and engineering of the structure were a statement of London's resilience and determination to rebuild. Today, it remains a significant historical landmark, offering a tangible link to the city's past and a reminder of its ability to overcome adversity.
+1Visitors can ascend the 311 steps to the top, a journey that many find both challenging and exhilarating. The climb itself is part of the experience, leading to a viewing platform that offers unparalleled panoramic views of London. This perspective allows you to trace the historical footprint of the fire and appreciate the modern cityscape that has risen from its ashes.
Climbing The Monument: An Experience
Once at the viewing platform, the breathtaking 360-degree views make the climb entirely worthwhile. You're treated to an unobstructed panorama of London's iconic skyline. Landmarks like the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the modern Shard are all visible, offering a unique perspective on the city's evolution. It’s a fantastic spot for photography, especially during the 'golden hour' before sunset, when the city is bathed in warm light.
While there are no elevators, the climb is a core part of the attraction. Some visitors even mention a small, somewhat unnerving ledge at the top, adding a touch of thrill for the truly adventurous. It’s a reminder of the daring spirit that built this monument and the city it represents.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit