The History of 10 Downing Street

I also just went down Downing Street as child, chatted the copper, and had his permission to touch the door of number 10. In 1966 aged 13, I could just wander into the hotels of the French and German national football teams, there for the World Cup, and attempt (language problems) to chat with the players. I still have the program with many of their autographs. My point being, just how much has changed from those days and now. Security was not really considered necessary then.

In the 60’s my Dad painted the door at 10 Downing Street. He said it took him forever to finish the job, because all of the tourists wanted to take his photo while facing the cameras, which he was more than happy to oblige. 📸

When I was a kid I remember walking straight through Downing Street, from Whitehall to Horse Guards Parade!! There was just a solitary copper stood at the door, and you could stop and have a chat with him and he wouldn’t just tell you to bugger off!!! How times have changed!!!

I'm in Toronto but I remember when I was a teen on a school tour to Europe we walked along Downing street. Kind of sad it has to be blocked off like that. I'm sure its safer though. I love the fact that the Downing street cat has a longer and more assured tenure than any given politician who lives there.

I've been inside downing street and sat in that hooded chair! Was the mid 90s, my dad and me were called to collect some paperwork for my grandfather and we went inside no 10 and I remember sitting in the chair! There s photos of it too, my mums had it up on a wall since that day. Probably wouldn't happen now 😂 Nice video 👍

Thanks Rob, very interesting. When a child in the 60's I did see Downing Street on a family visit to London from Hampshire. I'm afraid I'm a Winston fan because of his efforts during the war.

On 04 May 1979, I was in the crowd in front of No10 to see Thatcher take office and hear her Assisi speech! Great feature on Downing St, Rob

I vaguely remember walking through Downing Street as a child in the early seventies.

During all my visits to London, I’ve always been distracted by the magnificent beauty of the Banqueting Hall across the street from 10 Downing Street. This video made me aware of another London historical site by a well composed history version. Thank you, hope you’ll walk across the street & make documentary the history of the Banqueting Hall. A true National Treasure.

Thanks for another enjoyable and educational representation of our capital's rich history. You are a true ambassador to the capital city. I have loved every one so far.👍

Very well researched and illustrated vid Rob, thanks. I had a meeting in number 10 in 2015, just part of a group making representations to a govt working party, nothing fancy. I was struck by how scruffy and outdated the parts I saw were. The pics you sourced with the yellow walls looked fantastic - the insipid washed out blues and greens with yellowing gloss work I saw were nothing like that! As you enter Downing Street there's an airport security style process, in an old wooden hut near the railings. 30s job and you're through, surprisingly low tech. Once through the door, we had to leave our mobiles in a wooden pigeon hole structure in the reception area before going through into our meeting room. I was allowed to walk up the stairway with all the portraits, we weren't going that way, but we were asked if we wanted to quickly do it - be rude not to! Thanks again.

At least Dashwood never became PM - I mean, a boozing, licentious occupier of 10 Downing Street would be unthinkable, surely...? 😉 Thanks for all your hard work and research, Rob - another treat!

Another excellent tour of your famous city and one of its iconic addresses. Thank`s so much.

It was complete when you mentioned the chief mousers. 😻

Great video. Very insightful. The history of the power station is incredible. It’s somewhat depressing that it had to become a shopping centre and luxury flats, but the redevelopment is beautiful. It’s been done so well.

I've just discovered your videos. I visited the UK in 1988, staying mostly in London but also venturing into the countryside and Cardiff, Wales. My dad and I are both Anglophiles and we love history. I find your videos interesting and entertaining. ❤ Love from North Carolina, USA. 🩵💙

Rob, loving the videos about our capital city and its environs. They are a welcome distraction from insomnia, general malaise and my danged cat ( who loves to wake up earlier each day , often before the birds! )

Fascinating history. Thanks Rob.

Love your thinly veiled swipes at a recent occupant

Thank you so very much for this delightful tour through your history. You all have such a rich heritage and must be very proud.