10 Downing Street, London

10 Downing Street—or as the British press affectionately calls it, Number 10—is the official residence and workplace of the UK’s Prime Minister. It has been the address for power players since the 18th century. Don’t be fooled by its modest black door—it’s basically the palace of spreadsheets and late-night policy debates—equal parts nerve center and nerve-wracking...

Originally cobbled together from three separate houses (because one apparently wasn't enough for 18th-century real estate ambitions), Number 10 now contains over 100 rooms. The PM’s family lives on the third floor, their kitchen’s tucked away in the basement, and the rest of the place is a maze of offices, reception rooms, and the odd spot for international awkward silences. There’s even a private garden—half an acre, no less—perfect for pondering global crises over a cup of Earl Grey.

Now, speaking of doors, that iconic black front door is not wood but reinforced steel. No keyhole, either—because obviously, in this house, you don’t knock, you get buzzed in. A doorman’s always on duty because the door only opens from the inside. (Some say this is where British stoicism is forged.)

And the phrase “in the hot seat”? Thank Number 10 for that. The hallway used to feature a rather dramatic black chair, complete with a coal-filled drawer underneath to warm the night watchman's backside. Forget ergonomics—that was 18th-century comfort.

The house has taken its share of hits. During WWII, a German bomb rudely messed with the kitchen. Then in 1991, the IRA launched a mortar attack—Downing Street survived, but a splinter still sticks defiantly in the upstairs plaster, like a war story the walls refuse to let go.

Inside, the Grand Staircase displays portraits of every British Prime Minister in order, a visual reminder that political haircuts have come a long way. Tony Blair added bees to the décor (yes, actual plaster bees in the window frames), while Margaret Thatcher insisted on a mini roof over one door—presumably for extra austerity.

Public tours—unfortunately, not happening. Entry is tighter than the King’s biscuit tin. But if you’re into wizardry, you’ll appreciate the Harry Potter trivia—Number 10 doubles as a magical portal, as revealed in The Half-Blood Prince. And yes, Kingsley wizard Shacklebolt worked here undercover, guarding the Prime Minister against the dark forces of Lord Voldemort. There's obviously more to this place than you'd expect...

Tip:
Pair your Downing Street sightseeing with a wider walk through Whitehall and Westminster. Politics, pomp, and a splash of Potter—it’s all just a few steps away.