About

A permanent reminder of the Great Fire of 1666, The Monument commemorates one of the most significant events in London’s history.

Standing on the piazza between Fish Street Hill and Monument Street, the 202ft column designed by Robert Hooke in consultation with Sir Christopher Wren celebrates the City which rose from the ashes.

The Monument was built with a second purpose: to also be the site for scientific experiments. Hidden beneath The Monument is a tiny laboratory from where the column was once used as a giant zenith telescope. This plan was soon abandoned as the surrounding area was too busy.

Hundreds of thousands of visitors climb The Monument's 311 spiral steps each year, and are rewarded with one of the best views of London from the public viewing platform.

The Monument's spiral staircase, The Monument of the Great Fire of London
Monumental facts
  • The Monument stands 202 feet (61 metres) in height and 202 feet (61 metres) to the west of the spot where the Great Fire started on Pudding Lane
  • 311 spiral steps lead up to the public viewing platform, where visitors can get breath-taking views of London from 160 feet (48.7 metres) above ground
  • When Wren and Hooke designed The Monument, it was to double up as a scientific instrument - a Zenith telescope, for gravity and pendulum experiments, connecting to an underground laboratory!
  • Everyone who makes the climb is awarded a certificate to mark the occasion
  • The Monument is a Grade 1 listed building, the highest designation possible
  • The Monument is a fluted doric column built of Portland Stone, topped with a golden orb