London
Town Guide


Monument

Monument Street, EC2
Nearest Tube: Monument


Simply known as the Monument, this is London's memorial to the Great Fire of London that burnt most of the city to the ground in 1666.

The fire started on 2nd September in a bakery in Pudding lane. Strong winds fanned the flames and the fire spread quickly through the timber and thatch of London's houses. The fire burnt for three whole days, after which 80% of London lay in ruins. 87 churches and more than 13,000 houses were burnt to the ground, yet only eight people were killed.

Sir Christopher Wren, who was the architect who rebuilt much of London after the Fire, designed the Monument in 1671. It is situated in The City, on King William Street near London Bridge.
Monument, The City, London, 5K
The Monument is 212 feet high, making it the tallest isolated stone column in the world. If you laid it on its side it would reach from its position all the way to the exact spot in Pudding Lane where the fire started. It is topped with a bronze urn filled with flames.

There are over 300 steps in the Monument, which lead to a viewing platform. If you can be bothered with the climb you will get some lovely panoramic views.

The Monument is open daily throughout the year, but times vary according to day and season so check first in advance. The entrance fee is around £1.

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