Downing Street

The Basics

Downing Street has been home to the most influential figures in the UK government for more than 300 years, including Winston Churchill, Margaret Thatcher, and Tony Blair. Number 10 (as it widely known in the UK), a Georgian townhouse completed in 1735, was designed by Christopher Wren, who also designed St. Paul’s Cathedral. In the 19th century, the buildings on one side of the street were demolished to make way for new government buildings, which now house the Foreign & Commonwealth Office.

The street was closed to the public in 1989. Visitors can now only glimpse the action from beyond iron railings, though the street reopens to guided tours on occasional weekends as part of Open House London. You might be able to spot the iconic front door from the top deck of a hop-on hop-off tour bus. Visitors often choose to join a guided walking tour or bus tour of London to learn more about the history of this famous address.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Downing Street is not open to the public.

• You can snap a picture of the famous front door at Number 10 from the gates along Whitehall.

• For a look inside the building, you can take a virtual tour on the 10 Downing Street website.

How to Get There

Downing Street runs between St James’s Park and Whitehall in central London. It’s easily walkable from other places in central London, and there are many different public transport options. The nearest Underground stop is Westminster, served by the District, Circle, and Jubilee lines. Public bus #11 and hop-on hop-off tour buses both pass by frequently.

When to Get There

There are usually a number of tourists gathered around the gates at Whitehall throughout the day. The area can get very crowded if there is a public demonstration taking place. London in general is busiest in late spring and summer, so consider visiting in early spring or fall for a relatively quieter experience.

Take a Walk in St. James’s Park

The wide expanse of St James’s Park is one of London’s prettiest open spaces. Its boundaries stretch from Downing Street to Buckingham Palace, and the park forms part of a chain of greenery that also includes Green Park, Hyde Park, and Kensington Gardens. With a picturesque lake, local population of geese and ducks, and wide tree-shaded lawns, it’s a great spot to take a break from sightseeing.

What is the history behind Downing Street?

Downing Street started out in the 17th century, lined by humble terraced houses. Between two and three centuries later, the street was rebuilt per the designs of Sir Christopher Wren. Successive politicians and dignitaries then called Downing Street home, marking it firmly as an address of power.

Can I take photos outside Downing Street?

Photos can be taken by the entrance gates to Downing Street, the police-guarded iron security gates that block any public entry. However, you’ll need a good zoom on your camera if you want a photo of 10 Downing Street, which is normally only open to select press, politicians, and police.

Can I take a guided tour of Downing Street?

No, the public can’t access Downing Street as admission is tightly controlled because it’s the London residence and working office of the British Prime Minister. Curious visitors can take virtual 10 Downing Street tours or enter to win a snoop around the gardens during the London Open Garden Squares Weekend.

Is there an entrance fee to visit Downing Street?

No, there’s no entrance fee to visit Downing Street as the public can’t enter freely. If you want an alternative glimpse of the street that’s not by the police-thronged gates, take a seat on the #11 bus or ride the London Eye. For virtual Downing Street tours, there’s no fee.

Are there any annual events or ceremonies at Downing Street?

The British Prime Minister hosts receptions and events throughout the year at Downing Street, but they’re strictly invite-only. Past receptions have included the 20th anniversary of the Frieze London Art Fair, a Pride reception, and a Festive Showcase event, which put the spotlight on popular exported British cheese like Yorkshire Wensleydale.

How do I get to Downing Street using public transport?

Visitors can reach Downing Street in central London easily using public transport. It’s a 10-minute walk from the tube stations of Westminster or Embankment, or the train station of Charing Cross. Several public buses serve the Westminster area around Downing Street, as well as nearly all London sightseeing buses.

Ways to explore

Number 10—as it is widely known in the UK—is a Georgian townhouse that was completed in 1735 and designed by Christopher Wren, the architect also behind St. Paul’s Cathedral. The street has been closed to the public since 1989, and visitors can now only glimpse the action from beyond iron railings. Periodically, the street reopens to tours as part of the Open House Festival. Many guided walking tours and bus tours of London pass by the address and offer insight into its history and significance.

Accessibility

Downing Street is closed to pedestrian traffic. The nearest wheelchair-accessible tube station is Westminster.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Binoculars, as you’ll be viewing from a distance. As you’ll be outside, consider the weather: pack an umbrella for potential showers, or a sun hat and sunscreen if conditions are warm.

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing for sightseeing outdoors

Not allowed

10 Downing Street is closed to the public, and no access is permitted.

Amenities

You’ll find many cafés, shops, and restaurants nearby. The closest public restrooms are in St. James’s Park.

Address

The closest you can get to Number 10 is to walk down Whitehall and look down Downing Street with the River Thames at your back, as the street is closed to pedestrian traffic. It’s easy to reach this area of central London by public transport.

Driving

It’s best to avoid driving in central London if you can: roads are busy, parking is expensive, and you may have to pay the Congestion Charge and ULEZ charge. If you must drive, Q-Park Westminster is the closest parking lot, located a 10-minute walk away.

Public transportation

The nearest tube station is Westminster, but Charing Cross, St James’s Park, and Embankment are all also within easy walking distance. Many bus routes serve the area, including lines 12, 26, 87, 88, 159, and 453.

Best times to visit

The gates are usually busy with tourists, so try to arrive earlier or later in the day to avoid peak crowds. The area can become very crowded if a public demonstration is taking place.

Best days to visit

Visit early morning on weekdays for the best access.

Best months to visit

London is busiest with tourists in late spring and summer, so consider an early spring or fall trip for a quieter experience.

Special events

Open House London offers limited public access to Downing Street each year through a lottery system.