We spotted the huge golden orb between the grey buildings on our cruise of the River Thames. It stood out like a flaming sun amid the modern concrete. Next day we went back to have a proper look at what turned out to be the Monument.

It stands (appropriately enough) in Monument Street (opposite Monument Underground station) 202 feet high. Built by Sir Christopher Wren (of St Paul's Cathedral fame) in 1671 to commemorate the Great Fire of London, if you were to fell the column in an easterly direction, it would reach Pudding Lane, where the fire broke out.

This was the best value tourist attraction I've seen in London. It cost £2 (£1 for children) to climb the 311 narrow steps to the top and from the viewing platform there I could see the river, Tower Bridge, St Paul's dome, the Gherkin and Level 42.

Upon getting back down to street level, you are presented with a certificate of achievement. Very proud moment. Tip: if you're scared of heights, do not look down the staircase or you'll be faced with a swirling vortex of seemingly neverending height. A variety of nearby pubs, shops and a Starbucks provide plenty of venues to catch one's breath and take pride in those hard-earned certificates of achievement.