Climbing Wren's Monument

The Great Fire of London remembered in stairs

Back in 1666, the infamous Great Fire of London ravaged the city. The Monument column stands 202 feet high and 202 feet from the alleged starting point of the fire. It pales in comparison to the modern skyscrapers it neighbours, but when I arrived it still commanded my attention. I walked to the base of the column and pondered how I could possibly ascend to the top. I entered the base and met the two employees on duty. After a quick transaction of £4.50, I began my 311 step trek.

The walls were clammy, but my palms weren't sweaty. As the steps pilled up, I didn't feel like I was high above the capitol. When I approached my first window, however, I quickly realized the magnitude of my journey. Footsteps of fellow climbers began to grow near. We were all in this journey together – some halfway and some a quarter.

I felt a breeze as I realised my ascent was coming to a close. The city engulfed me as I stepped onto the viewing deck. Tower Bridge, the Thames and Westminster were all within my vantage point. Thankfully, the entire viewing deck is heavily fortified with a steel cage. This aided my mental health. When I began my descent, I saw climbers with the same wide eyed gaze I had definitely just had. We nodded at each other in respect. Another 311 steps later, I had reached the Earth.

Euphoria. I received a commemorative piece of parchment acknowledging I had made it to the summit. Quickly, I shuffled with tired legs to a table and signed my name. I gazed up at the Monument in awe before turning to my watch. I had to get back to class

Conner Miller

TripTide User