Monument to the Great Fire of London
Monument Street EC3R 8AH
9.30am – 1.00pm & 2.00pm – 6.00pm daily. Last entry 12.30pm & 5.30pm
Tube: Monument, London Bridge Bus: 17, 521, 21, 43, 133, 141, 48, 149
45 mins
6+
Not accessible
from £3pp Under 5s FREE
Based on 7 reviews
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About the Monument to the Great Fire of London
Bring the Great Fire of London to life at The Monument! Built in 1677, this iconic column marks where the fire began and challenges families to climb 311 steps for incredible city views. Perfect for adventurous kids aged 6+, it’s a thrilling and educational outing.
Top tip from the KidRated Team:
Bring water and wear comfy shoes – it’s 311 steps to the top and there’s no lift. But the skyline views and certificate at the end are worth every puff!
Quick Inspiration
Definitely fun, especially for ages 6+. It’s part adventure, part history lesson, and there’s a certificate at the top to prove your bravery.
It’s twisty and tall – 311 steps – but there’s a handrail all the way and loads of kids smash it. You might hear a few “are we nearly there yets,” but the skyline views are totally worth it.
Not this time. It’s all stairs, so best to leave the buggy at home or at the base. Tiny legs might need carrying!
Nope, it’s a short, punchy visit. Climb, conquer, enjoy the view, grab a selfie and you’re done in under 45 minutes.
Only if you like your sightseeing with a side of drizzle – the viewing deck is open to the elements, so go on a dry day for max wow-factor.
There are plaques at the base with fiery facts, epic views at the top, and a real sense of history as you climb a monument built in 1677.
You can book online (easiest) or try your luck on the day, but during weekends and school holidays it can get busy.
Bragging rights AND a certificate. Frame it. Stick it on the fridge. Let the kids tell their teacher.
Sky Garden is minutes away (and free!), plus Leadenhall Market, the Thames Path, and Tower Bridge are all within strolling distance.
Hop on the Tube to Monument Station, it’s literally next door. Fancy a fun route? Arrive by river boat to London Bridge City Pier and walk from there.
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Climbed up here this week, kids did it easily - staircase gets quite narrow at the top though! Absolute must for any kids studying the Great Fire of London - my 6 year old has been learning all about it this term and knew more about it than me, seeing the real Pudding Lane sign nearby was great. Kids loved getting the certificate at the end. Fantastic to walk from here right down Cannon Street to St Pauls to see just how far the fire spread.