The Monument: 311 Steps to London's Unforgettable Views

TLDR: Climb London's historic Monument for rewarding panoramic views, a tangible connection to the Great Fire of 1666, and a certificate of ascent - but prepare for 311 narrow steps and potential crowds. 

Stepping into the heart of City of London, you're surrounded by history, and few places capture that spirit quite like The Monument. This towering column, which is a silent sentinel over the city, tells a dramatic story of destruction and rebirth. 

During my recent visit, I found it to be both a viewpoint and a physical journey through London's resilience. If you're wondering if this iconic landmark is worth your precious travel time, or how to make the most of your visit, read on. We'll cover its fascinating past, the practicalities of a climb, and what to expect when you reach the top. 

What is the story behind The Monument?

The Monument you see today stands as a solemn tribute to London's defining moment: the Great Fire of 1666. Imagine the city mostly built of wood, then picture a devastating blaze starting in a small baker's shop on Pudding Lane. The fire raged for four days and consumed much of medieval London. Yet, miraculously, fewer than ten lives were lost, and it is a testament to quick thinking and luck.

This column, which was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Robert Hooke, is 202 feet tall - precisely the distance from its base to that very spot.  The Monument was completed in 1677, and this structure symbolizes London's incredible ability to rebuild itself from the ashes.

Initially, Wren and Hooke envisioned more than just a memorial. They planned for it to function as a giant zenith telescope - even with an underground laboratory. However, the constant rumble of London traffic quickly made this scientific ambition impractical. 

For years, a misleading inscription on its base unfairly blamed Catholics for the fire. This detail was finally removed in 1830. 

Today, it stands proud, and it offers a tangible link to a pivotal event that shaped modern London.

How many steps is The Monument in London?

To reach The Monument's public viewing platform, you'll need to ascend a rather narrow, winding staircase comprising exactly 311 steps. It’s quite a workout, and you'll definitely feel it in your legs as you spiral upwards. 

Upon successfully completing the climb, a small but satisfying reward awaits: you can claim a certificate commemorating your achievement. It’s a nice touch; a physical memento of your effort.

The Monument rises 202 feet (61.6 meters) into the sky. This height is no coincidence; it precisely matches the distance from its base to the precise location on Pudding Lane where the Great Fire of London ignited in 1666. This historical accuracy adds an extra layer to your climb, knowing each step brings you closer to understanding the fire's devastating reach. 

Interestingly, this attraction also holds the distinction of being London's oldest ticketed site. 

Can you still go up The Monument?

Absolutely, yes, you can still climb The Monument! It remains fully open to the public, and it invites you to tackle those 311 spiral steps for yourself. As you ascend, you’ll feel the cool stone walls and hear the muffled sounds of the city fading below. The reward, of course, is the superb panoramic view of the City of London from the top viewing platform.

After your climb, don't forget to grab that certificate as proof of your ascent - it's a well-earned souvenir! 

Be aware, though, there's no lift, so the stairs are your only route up and down. Also, for safety and space, there are restrictions on bag size, so plan to travel light. This ensures a smoother experience on the narrow staircase as you prepare to survey the city below.

What is at the top of The Monument in London?

Once you’ve conquered those 311 steps, you'll emerge onto a public viewing platform, wwhere you can feel the fresh breeze and see London spread out before you. Directly above your head, at the very pinnacle of The Monument, is a striking gilded urn of fire. This shimmering golden finial powerfully symbolizes the Great Fire of London, as its flames are eternally captured at the column's peak.

From the viewing platform, you can appreciate the intricate carvings lower down and the sheer scale of the column, before turning your gaze to the vast cityscape. It’s a moment to connect with both the artistry of the structure and the expansive views it provides.

What is the oldest object in London?

While The Monument offers a dramatic snapshot of London's past, the city's history stretches back much further. If you're curious about the true ancient roots of this incredible metropolis, you might be surprised to learn that the oldest objects actually discovered within London's current boundaries are prehistoric flint tools - from approximately 700,000 to 10,000 BC!

Archaeologists from the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) unearthed some of these Palaeolithic flint tools in Vauxhall, South London. These basic, yet profound, discoveries suggest early humans settled along the fertile banks of the Thames. 

Excavations under the Palace of Westminster have also revealed Mesolithic or Early Neolithic flint flakes, which indicates human activity even before Stonehenge was built. 

So, while you're admiring historical buildings, remember London’s ground holds secrets from deep antiquity.

What tube line goes to The Monument?

Getting to The Monument is incredibly straightforward thanks to London's efficient Underground system. 

The most convenient station, practically on its doorstep, is Monument station. This stop is served by both the District and Circle lines, which makes it easy to reach from many parts of the city. You'll literally step out and see the column towering above you.

If you're coming from a different direction, Bank station is another excellent option, as it is just a five-minute walk away. Bank is a major interchange, and it connects the Central, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines, plus the DLR. 

Alternatively, London Bridge station, on the Northern and Jubilee lines, is also within a comfortable 7-10 minute walk. Its central location makes it an easy addition to any City of London itinerary, and knowing these transport links is crucial for planning your visit efficiently.

Is it worth visiting The Monument?

Deciding if The Monument is worth your time often comes down to your personal travel style. For me, it offers a distinct historical perspective that modern skyscrapers can’t replicate. The climb of 311 spiral steps - while demanding - feels like a genuine achievement, and the intricate carvings you pass on the way are impressive. 

You'll gain a true sense of London's layered history from this unique vantage point, and the gilded flame at the top is a beautiful detail.

However, be prepared for a few potential drawbacks. The narrow viewing platform can feel quite cramped, especially during peak times. And the views, while historic, won't offer the same expansive panorama as the Shard or London Eye. If you have mobility issues or claustrophobia, this climb will be challenging. 

For the best experience, aim for early morning or late afternoon on a clear day to avoid crowds and maximize visibility. It's a quick, self-guided visit, and it usually takes 30-60 minutes. Using an audio guide from a platform like StoryHunt can help you decide if it aligns with your interests and prioritize your London sights efficiently. Try out StoryHunt for free here.

What else can I do in the City of London?

Once you've descended from The Monument, the surrounding City of London offers a treasure trove of further exploration. 

You could head to St. Paul's Cathedral, another of Sir Christopher Wren's masterpieces. Consider climbing to its Golden Gallery for breathtaking views – until recently, city regulations ensured no building surpassed its iconic dome.

• For something truly unique, visit Tower Bridge. You can walk its high-level glass walkways and explore the historic engine rooms. 
• Another fantastic spot is Leadenhall Market, which is a stunning Victorian marketplace that famously appeared in the Harry Potter films. 
• Seek out the serene St. Dunstan in the East Garden, which are beautiful church ruins that are now transformed into a tranquil public space. 
• Don’t miss the London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE, where you can see the reconstructed remains of a 3rd-century Roman temple. 

You can also read our full guide to all the top attractions in the City of London. And if you need a guide, that can show you around the City of London, use the StoryHunt app, which creates audio walks based on your preferences. Download StoryHunt for Android and iOS here.