Climbing the Monument in London : Everything You Need to Know

I climbed the 311 steps to the top of the Monument in London with my 13 year old son in August 2024. We both loved the experience and the view from the top.

In this article, find out everything you need to know about climbing the Monument. How long it takes to climb, whether it’s scary and the history behind it. 

Also find out on how you can save money on a ticket and why you should definitely climb it too! 

The History of the Monument

The Monument in London is a column commemorating the Great Fire of London, which devastated much of the city in 1666.

The fire began in a bakery on Pudding Lane on September 2, 1666, and spread quickly, destroying large parts of London over three days. It consumed 87 churches, 13,200 houses, and numerous other buildings.

To commemorate the rebuilding of the city and the lives lost during the fire, Sir Christopher Wren and Dr. Robert Hooke designed the Monument. Construction began in 1671 and was completed in 1677.

How High is the Monument?

The Monument is 202 feet (61.57 metres) tall, which is the exact distance between the column and the bakery where the fire started.

How Many Steps are There?

There are 311 steps to the top. The steps go along winding staircases which is a bit disconcerting for some. You do have to pass alongside people as they are coming in the opposite direction. 

Having said this, the steps felt safe to me. We’ve previously climbed winding staircases in cathedrals and towers which are uneven and very thin in places making them unnerving to climb. The steps in the Monument are sturdy, smooth and flat and the staircase is one size all the way to the top. There is also a sturdy handrail you can hold onto! 

How Long Does it Take to Climb?

It took us about 10 minutes. However, my son was racing to the top and I was just about keeping up with him! I would say it would take most people 10 to 15 minutes. It does feel hardgoing on the legs after a while but I felt we could rest when we needed to. If somebody was behind you, you could let them come past.

You are asked to leave your bags at the bottom where there is an attendant who watches over them. This is great because you don’t want to be carrying heavy bags up a winding staircase. Take anything valuable like phones or electronics with you.

What’s the View Like from the Top?

The view from the top is excellent and well worth the effort of the climb. We could see Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Shard. You can also see the Walkie Talkie building (where the Sky Garden is located) and the Gherkin.

The viewing platform is caged in which is good for people like me who have a minor fear of heights. I’m not afraid to say my legs felt rather wobbly through the whole experience (they feel like this whenever I climb anything high – I try not to think too much and never let it stop me!).

Can Children Climb the Monument?

Yes! While we were there, a family of four with two kids aged around 9 and 11 had reached the top. The children didn’t seem phased by the height or the climb in the slightest. 

My 13 year old son also loved the experience. 

How Much Does it Cost to Climb?

At the time of writing the cost of climbing the Monument is £6 for adults and £3 for children which I think is a bargain compared with other attractions in London. (Check up to date prices here)

You can save even more money on these prices if you travel to London by train. There are 2 for 1 printable vouchers available for use on weekends and on school holidays.  We did this in August 2024. I payed just £6 for myself and my son to climb with a 2 for 1 voucher.

When is the Best Time to Climb the Monument?

We climbed the Monument at around 3pm on a Tuesday afternoon during the summer school holidays in August and it was fairly quiet.

We passed two people on the way up to the top and two people on the way down. Plus there were a handful of people at the top when we arrived there.

School trips are often scheduled to visit the Monument  between 10 and 11.30am on Mondays through to Thursdays in term time so avoid these times. 

The Monumnet opens at 9.30am and closes at 17.30pm. It also closes for lunch between 1pm and 2pm. Check up to date opening times on the website. 

Looking for the quietest times? Weekends and school holidays at either the beginning or end of the day are most likely a good bet.

Should you Climb the Monument?

In a word yes.

It’s an experience that marks London’s history which also has a slight thrill element and culmiantes in enjoying panoramic views of London. Furthermore, it’s not going to break the bank!

I’m a little nervous of winding staircases and my legs always feel wobbly when high up. However, despite this I loved climbing the Monument. The fact that you’re caged in at the top eased my fear of heights.

Having said this, climbing the Monument might not be for everybody. For example, if you are extremely terrified of heights or have mobility issues it’s one to avoid for obvious reasons. However, most people of average fitness will have no problems climbing the 311 steps to the top.

What Else is In the Area?

Plenty! There’s lots to do very nearby The Monument

If you fancy another view of London, the Sky Garden is a glass dome the top of a skyscraper (the Walkie Talkie building) and offers amazing views of the city. It’s about 3 minutes walk from The Monument. It’s free to enter the Sky Garden but you’ll still need to book a entry ticket on the website before you go. It’s also necessary to book quite a while in advance to get a ticket as they get booked quickly. 

Another cool free thing to do in the area is visit St Dunstan’s Church in the East Garden. Disover ruins of a church which have been overgrown with beautiful greenery. It’s an amazing for some cool Insta Pics and about 4 minutes walk away from Monument. 

Why not take the opportunity to walk across London Bridge which is a minute or two from The Monument for a lovely view of the River Thames and it’s landmarks. 

You’re also within walking distance of Borough Market  (for amazing street food), Southwark Cathedral and the London Bridge Experience. 

The Tower of London is about a 10 to 15 minute walk. 

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