London's Hidden Treasure: The Monument

Climbing to the Top of London's Hidden Gem

summarizeEditor's Summary

I recently visited the Monument in London's City and was blown away by its fascinating history and stunning views. This 61-meter-tall obelisk has been standing since the 17th century, commemorating the Great Fire of London in 1666. You can't miss it – it's a London landmark. The climb to the top is no joke, though – the spiral staircase is narrow, and you'll be sandwiched between other tourists. But trust me, the views from the top are totally worth it. You can see for miles across the city, and it's a great spot for people-watching. Plus, the Monument is free to visit, which is a major bonus in one of the world's most expensive cities.

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I recently visited the Monument in London's City, and I've gotta say, it's one of the most fascinating free viewing spots in the area. The Monument itself is a 61-meter-tall obelisk that's been standing since the 17th century. You can't miss it – it's a London landmark, plain and simple.

The climb to the top is no joke, though. The spiral staircase is incredibly narrow, and you'll find yourself sandwiched between other tourists as you make your way up. It's a real adrenaline rush – I felt a bit queasy at times, to be honest.

The viewing platform at the top is surrounded by a metal railing, which only adds to the sense of being perched precariously high above the city. And let me tell you, the views are simply stunning – you can see the entire city skyline.

The Shard

London's City skyline from the MonumentAs I made my way to the top, I was fascinated by the story of the Monument. It was built in the 17th century as a tribute to the Great Fire of London in 1666. The base of the obelisk features an inscription in Latin and English, detailing the story of the fire, and there's a sculpture group depicting scenes from mythology. It's a really interesting piece of history – I loved learning more about it.

As you exit the Monument, you'll be given a certificate for conquering the 311 steps. The certificate features an image of the Monument in its former glory, when it stood tall above the City. Now, it's just one of many towering skyscrapers in the area. It's a great keepsake, and I felt pretty proud of myself for making it to the top.

live_helpFeatured FAQ

What's the history behind the Monument?

The Monument commemorates the Great Fire of London in 1666, which destroyed much of the city. It was built to commemorate the disaster and to serve as a warning against future fires.

Is the Monument free to visit?

Yes, the Monument is free to visit, although donations are always welcome.

Can I take the lift to the top?

No, there aren't any lifts or elevators at the Monument. You'll have to tackle the stairs the whole way up.

Is the Monument suitable for families?

Yes, the Monument is a great spot for families – the views from the top are amazing, and the history behind the Monument is really interesting.

Can I eat or drink at the Monument?

No, there aren't any food or drink vendors at the Monument, although there are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby.

Are there any special events at the Monument?

Yes, the Monument hosts a range of special events throughout the year, including concerts and exhibitions. Check the Monument's website for more information.

check_circlePros

•The history behind the Monument is seriously interesting – it's a great reminder of the city's rich past.
•The views from the top are totally worth braving the climb – you can see the entire city.
•The Monument itself is an impressive piece of architecture that's stood the test of time.
•It's a great spot for people-watching – you'll see all sorts of tourists and locals taking in the sights.
•The Monument is free to visit, which is a major bonus in one of the world's most expensive cities.
•The Monument hosts a range of special events throughout the year, including concerts and exhibitions.

cancelCons

•The spiral staircase is incredibly narrow, and you'll find yourself sandwiched between other tourists as you make your way up.
•The climb can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you're not a fan of heights.
•There aren't any lifts or elevators, so you'll have to tackle the stairs the whole way up.
•It can get pretty crowded, especially during peak tourist season.
•The views can be a bit hazy on a foggy day, which is a shame.