Downing Street, Political street in Westminster, United Kingdom.
Description
Downing Street is a short road in Westminster that houses the official residence of the British Prime Minister. The brick-fronted terraced houses appear modest from the outside while government offices and meeting rooms lie behind the facades.
History
A diplomat purchased the land in the 17th century and built the row of houses as a speculative venture. King George II offered Number 10 to the First Lord of the Treasury in 1735 as an official residence.
Culture
Photographers gather at the black gate while television cameras often line up to record official announcements and arrivals. The famous door of Number 10 appears in news broadcasts around the world whenever major decisions are made.
Practical
Visitors can only view the road from a distance at the end of Whitehall since access has been closed off since the 1980s. Police officers guard the entrance around the clock and check anyone wishing to pass through the gate.
Did you know?
The original windows cannot be opened from inside because they were sealed during renovations. Cables and wiring run through the old structures after technicians installed modern communication systems into the historic walls.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (City of Westminster).
10 Downing Street
19 m
Banqueting House
179 m
The Cenotaph
121 m
11 Downing Street
24 m
Horse Guards
153 m
12 Downing Street
41 m
9 Downing Street
12 m
Richmond House
116 m
Monument to the Women of World War II
92 m
Scotland Office
101 m
Garden of 10 and 11 Downing Street
49 m
Holbein Gate
128 m
Statue of Robert Clive
166 m
Earl Haig Memorial
137 m
Cádiz Memorial
96 m
Statue of the Earl Mountbatten
83 m
Gwydyr House
140 m
Statue of the Viscount Montgomery
116 m
Statue of the Earl Kitchener
73 m
Statue of the Viscount Slim
127 m
Equestrian statue of Earl Roberts
133 m
Statue of the Viscount Alanbrooke
119 m
Cabinet Office And Privy Council Office building
66 m
Foreign Office building
72 m
54 Parliament Street (Former Grindlay's Bank)
158 m
Steps And Parapets With Lamps At West End
168 m
Richmond Terrace Balustrade And 5 Lamps On It
164 m
Royal United Services Institute
158 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes