10 Downing Street

What are the most recommended things to do in 10 Downing Street?

  • Take a photo of the iconic black door of 10 Downing Street, the official residence of the UK Prime Minister.
  • Admire the historical Georgian architecture of the building from the outside, as it is not generally open to the public.
  • Visit the nearby Parliament Square and Westminster Abbey to immerse yourself in the political history of the area.
  • Walk along Downing Street to see other notable landmarks in Whitehall, such as the Cenotaph and Horse Guards Parade.

Introducing 10 Downing Street

10 Downing Street, now the official residence of the British Prime Minister, is located in Westminster, London, the capital of the United Kingdom. It is the center of the British government and one of the core powers of British politics. However, due to its small size, lack of maintenance, and its location on marshland, many prime ministers were reluctant to live there, and it was not considered a full-fledged prime ministerial residence at the time. It is best remembered for its black front door, which features a chandelier, a famous lion-head knocker, and a white Arabic numeral "10." The door can only be opened from inside.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons;

It has a temperate oceanic climate with small temperature differences between the four seasons. The summers are cool and the winters are warm. The air is humid with frequent rain and fog, especially in autumn and winter.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;

Nearby attractions: National Gallery, Oxford Street, Thames River, London Eye, St. Paul's Cathedral, Big Ben, etc.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

No. 10 Downing Street is not open to the public and can only be viewed from behind the iron railings on both sides of Downing Street.


Most Popular FAQs for 10 Downing Street

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

10 Downing Street has been the residence of the British Prime Minister since 1735 and is one of the most iconic buildings in the UK. It serves as both the Prime Minister's official residence and the place where many key political decisions are made. The building’s historical significance is tied to its role in shaping the country’s political landscape.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

10 Downing Street is located in Westminster, London, SW1A 2AA. To get there:

  • By Tube: The nearest station is Westminster (Jubilee, District, and Circle Lines).
  • By Bus: Routes 12, 53, 453, and 88 serve the area.
  • By Taxi: Taxis can drop you near the entrance, but access is limited due to security.
  • Walking: It's a short walk from Parliament Square, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

10 Downing Street is not open to the public. Visitors can only view it from the street, and the best time to do so is during the day when the street is least crowded. Access is restricted for security reasons, so it’s important to check for any special open events or exhibitions organized by the government.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to view 10 Downing Street from the outside. Since the building is not open to the public, there is no need to purchase tickets.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

There is no need to book tickets, as the attraction is not open for public tours. Visitors can only view the building from the street.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Since 10 Downing Street is not open to the public, you can spend 10-15 minutes walking around the area, taking photos, and appreciating the surroundings.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

While 10 Downing Street itself is not open for tours, the exterior and the iconic black door are the main highlights. Visitors can also explore nearby landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and the Cenotaph.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

There are no guided tours available for 10 Downing Street as it is not open to the public. However, guided tours of nearby political landmarks such as Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament are available in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are directly outside 10 Downing Street where you can capture the iconic black door and the historic façade. Be mindful of security restrictions while taking photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

As 10 Downing Street is not open for tours, there is no specific route inside. However, visitors can explore surrounding areas like Parliament Square and Westminster Abbey for a comprehensive political and historical experience.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and special tours are not available at 10 Downing Street. However, you can enjoy a stroll around the area during the evening and see the building lit up at night from the outside.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The area around 10 Downing Street can be busy, especially during weekdays when tourists and locals are visiting nearby landmarks. For a less crowded experience, visit early in the morning or later in the evening.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are no facilities directly at 10 Downing Street. However, nearby areas like Whitehall and Westminster have public toilets, cafés, and shops where you can rest and grab refreshments.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Since 10 Downing Street is viewed from the street, it is accessible to all visitors, including the elderly and disabled. However, there is limited access due to security measures and crowd control in the area.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

No cash is needed to view 10 Downing Street, as it is a public street. However, nearby shops and cafés accept both cards and mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Horse Guards Café, located nearby, offers light meals and refreshments.
  • St. Stephen's Tavern, a historic pub just a short walk from 10 Downing Street.
  • Gaby’s Deli, known for its sandwiches, is also close to the area.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, several nearby cafés and restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options. Horse Guards Café and Gaby’s Deli have a variety of choices for different dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • The Conrad London St. James, a luxurious hotel located near the Houses of Parliament.
  • The Sanctuary House Hotel, offering more affordable options in the Westminster area.
  • St. Ermin's Hotel, a beautiful historic hotel in the vicinity of Westminster Abbey and 10 Downing Street.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.
  • Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • The Churchill War Rooms and the National Gallery.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, nearby souvenir shops offer Westminster and London-themed items such as keychains, mugs, and t-shirts with iconic images of Big Ben, 10 Downing Street, and other landmarks.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting 10 Downing Street, you can easily continue your trip by walking to other nearby landmarks like Westminster Abbey or taking the Tube from Westminster Station (Jubilee, Circle, and District Lines) to other parts of London.