Why go
Between 1682 and 1684, Downing built a cul-de-sac of two-storey town houses with coach-houses, stables and views of St James's Park. The town house, from which the modern building gets its name, was one of several built by Sir George Downing between 1682 and 1684.
What to look for
- Furnishings Number 10 is filled with fine paintings, sculptures, busts and furniture.
- Downing fought their claim, but failed and had to wait thirty years before he could build.
- Downing employed Sir Christopher Wren to design the houses.
The full story
A private residence occupies the third floor and there is a kitchen in the basement. The other floors contain offices and conference, reception, sitting and dining rooms where the Prime Minister works, and where government ministers, national leaders and foreign dignitaries are met and entertained. At the rear is an interior courtyard and a terrace overlooking a garden of 0.5 acres . Adjacent to St James's Park, Number 10 is near Buckingham Palace, the London residence of the British monarch, and the Palace of Westminster, the meeting place of both houses of parliament. Originally three houses, Number 10 was offered to Sir Robert Walpole by King George II in 1732. Walpole accepted on the condition that the gift was to the office of First Lord of the Treasury rather than to him personally.
Your next visit
Estimated · Declared scenario and planning estimates; no live opening, weather, queue or booking service.
Outdoor visit · 45–90 min
World planning estimate; admission, opening, visit duration and access need checking.