Downing Street

Downing Street is a short cul-de-sac in the City of Westminster, London, connecting Whitehall to St James's Park via a gate that is normally closed to the public. Number 10 Downing Street has served as the official residence and office of the First Lord of the Treasury, a role traditionally held by the Prime Minister, since 1735. The street also contains Number 11, the official residence of the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and Number 12, which houses the office of the Government Chief Whip. The street is protected by security gates and armed police and is not accessible to the general public.