The Secrets Of No 10 London: 7 Shocking Facts About The World’s Most Powerful Door In 2025

Few addresses on Earth hold the political weight of No 10 London. Since 1735, this seemingly modest Georgian terraced house has served as the official residence and nerve centre for the British Prime Minister, a role currently held by Keir Starmer as of this December 2025 update. More than just a home, it is the headquarters of His Majesty's Government, where critical decisions—from national security to economic policy—are made daily, making it a constant focal point for global media, policy experts, and protestors alike.

The building at 10 Downing Street is far larger than its famous black door suggests, functioning as a complex of offices, private apartments, and state rooms. Its history is interwoven with the fabric of the United Kingdom, witnessing everything from declarations of war to landmark peace treaties. Understanding No 10 requires looking beyond the famous façade to the history, architecture, and political machinery that operate behind the world's most photographed entrance.

The Current Occupant and The Enduring Political Entity

As of late 2025, the resident of No 10 London is Keir Starmer, who serves concurrently as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and the First Lord of the Treasury. This dual title is a historical relic, as the house was originally offered to Robert Walpole, the first de facto Prime Minister, in 1732, but he accepted it only on the condition that it be given to the holder of the First Lord of the Treasury office, not to him personally.

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The transition of power and the establishment of a new administration in late 2024/early 2025 brought a new focus to the operations within the building. The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) at No 10 is the central hub for the entire government, managing communications, policy development, and the coordination of the Cabinet. The staff structure is broadly divided into three key entities: politically appointed special advisers (SpAds), civil servants who provide impartial advice, and the permanent staff responsible for the building's maintenance and domestic functions.

The Number 10 Policy Unit is a crucial entity within the PMO, comprising a body of policymakers who provide direct, strategic policy advice to the Prime Minister, often shaping the government's entire legislative agenda. This unit is instrumental in translating the political vision of the incumbent into actionable policy, a process that is constantly evolving under the current Labour government.

7 Lesser-Known Secrets of the Iconic No 10 London

While the image of the black door is internationally recognised, the building itself is a labyrinth of history, architectural secrets, and surprising facts that few outside the inner circle ever learn. These details highlight the sheer complexity and historical depth of the Prime Minister's residence.

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1. It's a Combination of Three Houses: The structure known as No 10 is not a single house but a seamless amalgamation of three separate properties: a modest house to the rear, a larger mansion called Montagu House, and the original small terraced house built by Sir George Downing. This complex joining explains why the building is much larger than its frontage suggests.
2. The Door Has No Handle (and is Never Locked): The famous, glossy black door is made of blast-proof steel, a necessary security measure in the modern era. Critically, it has no letterbox on the outside and no handle on the inside. It can only be opened by a security guard 24/7. Furthermore, the number '10' is not screwed on; it is painted.
3. The Door Wasn't Always Black: A little-known fact is that the iconic door was once painted green. Liberal Prime Minister Herbert Asquith (1908–1916) ordered the door to be painted green, a colour that remained for several years before it was returned to its traditional black.
4. It Contains Approximately 100 Rooms: Despite its humble façade, the combined buildings of No 10 contain around 100 rooms. The private residence for the Prime Minister and their family occupies the third floor, while the ground and first floors are dedicated to offices and state functions.
5. The Chequered Floor is a Historical Landmark: Immediately behind the front door is the famous entrance hall with its distinctive black-and-white Chequered Floor. This floor leads into a warren of state rooms and offices, including the renowned Cabinet Room, where the Prime Minister holds weekly meetings with the Cabinet.
6. The Chief Mouser is a Civil Servant: Perhaps the most beloved entity in No 10 is the official Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office, a cat employed to control rodents. The current Chief Mouser, Larry, has served under multiple Prime Ministers, holding a non-political office that often outlasts the human occupants.
7. It’s a Grade I Listed Building: No 10 is a Grade I listed building, meaning it is considered a building of exceptional interest, and its preservation is of paramount importance. This status severely restricts any external changes or major renovations, ensuring its Georgian architecture remains intact.

Architecture, Renovation, and Enduring Symbolism

The architecture of No 10 London is a study in understated power. Its primary style is Georgian architecture, known for its symmetry, elegance, and proportion. The building's age—over 300 years old—means it requires continuous, careful maintenance. Major renovations have been necessary over the centuries, most notably the extensive, multi-million-pound refurbishment in the 1960s under Prime Minister Harold Macmillan, which was essential to prevent the decaying structure from collapsing.

Key areas of the building include the Pillared Room, often used for press conferences and formal receptions, and the State Dining Room, which hosts world leaders and dignitaries. The house also features a small private garden and an internal courtyard, providing a rare slice of tranquillity in the heart of Westminster. The famous internal staircase, adorned with portraits of every past Prime Minister, serves as a visual history of the office itself.

Security at No 10 is, understandably, a top priority. The entire street is secured by high gates, and the building is constantly monitored by the Metropolitan Police Service. Recent events, such as occasional protests at the gates, serve as a reminder of the building’s role as the central target for public expression and political discourse.

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The Role of No 10 in Modern UK Governance

No 10 is more than just a residence; it is the ultimate symbol of the UK's executive branch. The decisions made here affect millions across the United Kingdom and internationally. The Cabinet Room is where the Prime Minister and the Cabinet meet to discuss and approve policy, making it the engine room of government. The proximity of the office to the residence allows the Prime Minister to be constantly engaged in the business of the state, blurring the lines between private and public life.

The building’s status as a Grade I listed building means its historical integrity is protected, yet it must also function as a modern, high-tech office. This tension between preserving history and facilitating 21st-century governance is a constant challenge for the permanent staff and civil servants who work there. The enduring image of the Prime Minister standing outside the black door, addressing the nation, solidifies No 10 London's position as a global icon of democracy and power.