Downing Street - Sightseeing, London Landmarks

Downing Street

Not open to the public although you can peer through the gates at the end of the road.

Downing Street was built in 1680. The homes of the Prime Minister and the Chancellor of the Exchequer are to be found at numbers 10 and 11 respectively.

In a break with tradition when Tony Blair became Prime Minister in 1997 he moved his family into number 11 where there is more room for his young children. The Chancellor, a bachelor, was given the small flat above the offices in number 10.

Although from the outside number 10 looks like a relatively small building, it has in fact been greatly extended. Inside there are government offices, including the cabinet room where government ministers hold regular meetings, the state dining room where banquets are held and the small private apartment for the prime minister and his or her family.

It used to be possible to walk along Downing Street and stand outside number 10 for a photograph. However in 1989, the then occupant of number 10, one Mrs Thatcher, had huge wrought iron gates erected at the entrance to the street, which effectively closed it to all but those visiting on official business.

Opposite the front door of number 10, television cameramen and other media personnel are on permanent watch. Just in case!

If you are interested in tours to Downing Street click here or here.

Location: Whitehall, London, SW1A 2AB