Chequers

Chequers is a red brick manor house with multiple chimneys and large windows built in the Tudor style in Buckinghamshire. The building extends over several wings and is surrounded by landscaped gardens and wooded grounds that include rolling hills.

The estate changed from a private manor house to the official residence of the Prime Minister through an act of Parliament in 1917. The owner Arthur Lee transferred it to the nation as a retreat for heads of government who lacked their own country estates.

Heads of government host foreign leaders here and use the property as a retreat for confidential discussions away from London. The residence also serves as a setting for informal meetings where official work continues in rural seclusion.

The estate remains closed to the public for security reasons but can be viewed from the walking trail The Ridgeway. The path runs near the grounds and allows glimpses of the outer architecture and surrounding landscape.

Churchill delivered several radio broadcasts from here during the Second World War and used the secluded location for confidential communication. The house also holds a collection of portraits and books available to Prime Ministers during their time in office.

Location: Ellesborough

GPS coordinates: 51.74340,-0.78197

Latest update: December 3, 2025 08:31