10 Downing Street, Cambridge: Historic Heart of British Governance
Historic Georgian charm and British political legacy converge at Cambridge’s iconic 10 Downing Street.
Situated at 10 Downing Street in Cambridge, this iconic Georgian building is a symbol of British political history and governance. Known for its classic black door and white window frames, it stands amidst a vibrant cityscape rich with cultural attractions and historic museums. Though access inside is restricted, the street itself is a pleasant walk through Cambridge’s historic core, offering a glimpse into the legacy of Sir George Downing and the city's academic heritage.
A brief summary to 10 Downing Street
- 10 Downing St., Cambridge, CB2 3ER, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the Georgian architecture and vibrant street life.
- Combine your visit with nearby museums such as the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology for a deeper cultural experience.
- Photography enthusiasts will find excellent opportunities capturing the classic black door and historic street scenes.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the area is best explored on foot to soak in the historic atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Cambridge Station, take bus number 1 or 3 towards the city center and alight at Drummer Street. From there, it is a 10-minute walk to 10 Downing Street. Bus services run frequently throughout the day, with tickets costing around £2–£3.
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Car
Approach via the A14 road, taking exit 35 for the A1303 towards Cambridge city center. Parking near Downing Street is limited; use nearby public parking facilities which may charge £3–£5 per hour. Allow 15–25 minutes driving time depending on traffic.
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Walking
If already in central Cambridge, a walk from the Market Square to 10 Downing Street takes about 10–15 minutes on mostly flat terrain, passing historic streets and shops.
10 Downing Street location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about 10 Downing Street
A Legacy Rooted in British History
10 Downing Street in Cambridge carries the name of Sir George Downing, a 17th-century diplomat and spy who invested in the area and whose estate contributed to the founding of Downing College, Cambridge. The street reflects his vision of a prestigious residential area for the well-to-do, and the building at number 10 embodies this heritage with its classic Georgian architecture, featuring the distinctive black door and white window frames that have become emblematic of British governance.Architectural and Cultural Context
The building at 10 Downing Street is a fine example of Georgian design, harmonizing with the surrounding historic structures and museums that line the street. Nearby, visitors find a cluster of academic and scientific institutions, including the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology and the Museum of Zoology, enriching the cultural atmosphere. The street itself links key parts of Cambridge’s city center, making it a focal point for both history enthusiasts and casual visitors.A Walk Through Cambridge’s Historic Core
Downing Street offers a pleasant pedestrian experience through the heart of Cambridge, connecting St. Andrew’s Street and Trumpington Street. The area is lively with shops, cafes, and cultural venues, providing an engaging backdrop for visitors exploring the city. Although the building at number 10 is not open to the public, standing before it allows one to appreciate the aura of British political tradition and the academic prestige of Cambridge.Symbolism and Significance
While 10 Downing Street in London is famously the residence of the UK Prime Minister, the Cambridge address shares the historical name and legacy tied to Sir George Downing. The Cambridge site symbolizes the intersection of governance, education, and history, reflecting the broader narrative of British political and academic life. The street and its buildings remain a testament to centuries of evolving British society.Nearby Attractions and Atmosphere
Visitors to 10 Downing Street can enjoy the vibrant surroundings of central Cambridge, including the nearby Grand Arcade shopping center and the historic St. Mary’s Church. The area is well-served by public transport and offers a variety of dining and leisure options. The street’s calm yet lively ambiance makes it a favored spot for both locals and tourists seeking to immerse themselves in Cambridge’s rich heritage.Preservation and Modern Context
Though modern Cambridge continues to grow, the preservation of 10 Downing Street and its environs ensures that the historical character remains intact. The building’s status as a tourist attraction highlights the city’s commitment to maintaining its architectural and cultural landmarks. Visitors are encouraged to respect the site’s significance while enjoying the dynamic urban environment that surrounds it.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Duke House
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A charming boutique guesthouse blending historic elegance with warm hospitality in central Cambridge.
Senate House Hill
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Historic Senate House Hill in Cambridge offers stunning views, iconic architecture, and a vibrant academic atmosphere at the heart of the university city.
The Old Schools
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Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
Reality Checkpoint
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A colorful Victorian lamppost marking the boundary between Cambridge's academic bubble and the real world, standing proudly at Parker’s Piece.
Bridge of Sighs
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A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
Magdalene Bridge
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Historic cast-iron bridge over the River Cam, linking Cambridge’s academic heart with its ancient trading past.
St. Paul's Church
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Explore the architectural beauty and community spirit of St. Paul's Church, a serene Anglican landmark in Cambridge, perfect for reflection and connection.
Jesus Green
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Explore the beauty of Jesus Green in Cambridge, a lush park perfect for picnics, strolls, and family fun amidst picturesque riverside views.
The Rush
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Explore The Rush, a tranquil nature reserve in Cambridge, where lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife create an idyllic escape from city life.
Newnham House
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Explore Newnham House: A Prestigious Landmark of Cambridge University's Academic Legacy.
Midsummer Common
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Discover the tranquility of Midsummer Common, a stunning park in Cambridge, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and scenic riverside walks.
Vue Cinema Cambridge
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Experience the joy of cinema at Vue Cinema Cambridge, where the latest movies meet a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Grafton Centre.
Lets Go Punting Cambridge
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Experience the charm of Cambridge from the water with Lets Go Punting, offering serene boat tours past historic landmarks and lush landscapes.
Museum of Cambridge
0.9 km
Explore the Museum of Cambridge, where local history comes alive through fascinating artifacts and engaging exhibits that tell the story of this historic city.
Kettle's Yard
1.0 km
Discover Kettle's Yard, Cambridge's unique art museum blending contemporary art with a serene home-like setting perfect for inspiration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Grand Arcade
0.1 km
A vibrant shopping centre in Cambridge’s heart offering diverse stores, dining, and festive events in a modern, accessible setting.
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
0.1 km
Explore 4.5 billion years of Earth’s history in Cambridge’s oldest geology museum, featuring fossils, meteorites, and iconic collections.
Arts Picturehouse
0.1 km
A historic Cambridge cinema blending indie films, art deco charm, and a lively café-bar in the city centre.
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
0.1 km
Explore two million years of human history through captivating artefacts and world cultures at Cambridge’s Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.
ArchaeoLink
0.1 km
Connecting Cambridge’s past and present through community archaeology and public engagement at the heart of the city’s academic quarter.
University Museum Of Zoology
0.1 km
Explore the rich diversity of animal life and evolutionary history at Cambridge’s University Museum of Zoology, home to iconic specimens and free entry.
Lion Yard
0.2 km
A vibrant, centrally located shopping centre in Cambridge offering diverse stores from budget to premium in a welcoming community setting.
Christ's College Cambridge
0.2 km
Explore centuries of academic heritage and tranquil gardens at Christ's College, a historic jewel in the heart of Cambridge.
House of Wizard
0.3 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles and fantasy treasures in the heart of Cambridge’s Market Hill.
Market Hill
0.3 km
Market Hill is Cambridge’s historic marketplace, alive with centuries of tradition, vibrant stalls, and rich community spirit at the city’s core.
St Bene’t’s Church
0.3 km
Discover Cambridge’s oldest building, an Anglo-Saxon church with a serene atmosphere and centuries of history in its ancient tower and sacred walls.
Cambridge Market Square
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Cambridge’s culture and commerce at Market Square, a historic open-air market with global flavours and local crafts.
Christ's Pieces
0.3 km
A serene Victorian park in central Cambridge offering mature trees, sports facilities, and a peaceful green escape amid the city bustle.
The Corpus Clock
0.3 km
A mesmerizing gold-plated clock with a mechanical grasshopper that devours time, blending art and science in the heart of Cambridge.
Corpus Christi College
0.3 km
Discover the intimate charm and historic legacy of Cambridge’s only college founded by townspeople, featuring medieval courts and the iconic Chronophage Clock.
Essential places to dine
Honest Burgers Cambridge
0.2 km
Savor fresh British burgers and handmade rosemary chips in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Corn Exchange district.
Sticks'n'Sushi - Cambridge
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of Japanese sushi and Nordic grilled sticks in the historic heart of Cambridge, where tradition meets innovation.
Pint Shop
0.2 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cambridge blending historic charm with an exceptional craft beer selection and hearty British fare.
Charlie Chan Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Cantonese dining in Cambridge with a rich history and a diverse menu of classic Chinese dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Aromi
0.3 km
Experience authentic Sicilian cuisine and stone-baked pizzas in a vibrant, historic Cambridge setting with a lively Mediterranean atmosphere.
Parker's Tavern
0.3 km
Elegant British and European cuisine with expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish setting overlooking Parker’s Piece in Cambridge.
Smokeworks
0.3 km
Savor authentic American barbecue with tender smoked ribs and lively vibes in the heart of Cambridge’s historic center.
Bread & Meat
0.3 km
Savor Cambridge’s top roast meat sandwiches and comfort food in a relaxed, ethically minded eatery at 4 Bene't Street.
Market House
0.3 km
Historic charm meets modern British-Asian cuisine in Cambridge’s Market House, a multi-level dining and wine destination with a sustainable ethos.
The Cambridge Chop House
0.3 km
Classic British steakhouse with locally sourced ingredients, historic charm, and stunning views opposite King's College Chapel in Cambridge.
d'Arry's Restaurant, Liquor Loft & Cheesemonger
0.4 km
Experience Cambridge’s vibrant blend of restaurant, wine bar, and cheesemonger with generous portions and exceptional cheese in a quirky, characterful setting.
Bill's Cambridge Restaurant
0.4 km
Eclectic British dining with vibrant charm in the heart of historic Cambridge’s Green Street.
Raja Indian Restaurant Cambridge
0.4 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine in a warm, intimate setting with vibrant flavours and heartfelt hospitality in Cambridge’s King Street.
Efes Restaurant
0.4 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean flavors in a cozy, family-run setting at Efes Restaurant, Cambridge’s beloved grill house.
Trinity Restaurant
0.4 km
A charming Cambridge eatery blending classic pies with contemporary style opposite Trinity College’s Great Gate.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CJ’s Vintage Store
0.1 km
Discover timeless fashion treasures and iconic vintage streetwear at CJ’s Vintage Store, a stylish gem in the heart of Cambridge.
Oliver Bonas
0.1 km
A feel-good British lifestyle store in Grand Arcade offering colourful fashion, curated homeware and choice gifts across a spacious ground-floor shop.
Menkind Cambridge
0.2 km
Discover unique gadgets and men’s gifts in the heart of Cambridge’s Lion Yard Shopping Centre, blending modern fun with historic charm.
Indelibly Cambridge
0.3 km
Discover pun-tastic souvenirs and local crafts on Peas Hill, where Cambridge's witty spirit comes alive in every handpicked gift.
Ark
0.3 km
Compact independent gift shop on historic Peas Hill serving market crowds, theatregoers and locals with curated Cambridge keepsakes.
Podarok
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts, quirky handbags, and beautiful jewellery at Podarok, Cambridge’s independent boutique in the Arts Quarter.
Sugarmark!
0.3 km
Capture Cambridge's charm with Sugarmark!'s iconic mugs, apparel, and prints from the heart of Market Hill—perfect souvenirs blending heritage and style.
As Seen On TV
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Discover quirky vintage fashion and unique accessories with great value in the heart of Cambridge’s Market Street.
Souvenirs And Gifts
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Authentic Cambridge souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of Market Hill.
Urban Outfitters
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Discover Urban Outfitters Cambridge for trendsetting fashion, eclectic home décor, and a vibrant urban shopping vibe in the heart of the city.
Iris and Violet Cambridge
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Discover vibrant, curated womenswear and lifestyle pieces in the charming heart of Cambridge at Iris and Violet boutique.
Nomads
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Discover authentic handmade jewelry, textiles, and artisan crafts at Nomads, Cambridge’s vibrant gift shop celebrating global and local craftsmanship.
Parade
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Discover unique Cambridge souvenirs at Parade Gift Shop, perfectly located on historic King's Parade with stunning views of King's College.
Samuel Smiley
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A charming gift shop on Cambridge’s historic Trumpington Street, offering unique local treasures and a warm shopping atmosphere.
Robert Graham 1874 - whisky & cigars
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A refined Cambridge haven for whisky lovers and cigar connoisseurs, where heritage meets expert curation in a relaxed, intimate setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar -OH
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Inventive cocktails and live music pulse through this intimate Cambridge gem, blending artistry with electric evenings until the wee hours.
Revolution Cambridge
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Cambridge’s vibrant cocktail bar and nightclub offering fresh food, rooftop views, and lively nightlife with DJs and karaoke pods.
The Cambridge Tap
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Lively craft-beer bar in a converted bank, known for burgers, cocktails and an upstairs room with college views.
The Castle Bar
0.1 km
Lively city centre bar pulsing with late-night DJ beats, sizzling Hot Rock steaks, and Cambridge's infectious student energy until 3am weekends.
Novi Kitchen + Bar
0.2 km
A stylish Cambridge hotspot blending Modern British small plates with botanical cocktails in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
BrewDog Cambridge
0.3 km
Experience bold craft beers and innovative food in the heart of historic Cambridge at BrewDog’s lively and welcoming bar.
Bath House
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Historic 17th-century Cambridge pub pouring Greene King cask ales and classic grub in a dog-friendly, family-welcoming spot steps from university landmarks.
Eagle
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Cambridge's legendary pub where DNA's secret was toasted, WWII airmen left their mark, and real ales flow amid historic haunts.
Glitterbomb
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A vibrant queer bar in Cambridge’s city center, Glitterbomb celebrates LGBTQ+ nightlife with inclusive club nights and dynamic drag performances.
Ta Bouche
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Experience Cambridge’s lively cocktail scene with creative drinks, fresh food, and a vibrant social atmosphere at Ta Bouche.
Town and Gown
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A vibrant Cambridge pub and intimate theatre where university meets local life in a lively, historic setting with great food and entertainment.
The Clarendon Arms
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A cozy Cambridge gastropub blending authentic Italian flavors with classic British charm and a standout Sunday roast.
La Raza
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Cambridge's basement gem for Spanish tapas, craft cocktails, and live funk beats—from daytime café to late-night haven.
The Cambridge Brew House
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Classic British pub charm meets craft brewing excellence in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant King Street.
Champion Of The Thames
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Historic Victorian pub in Cambridge offering award-winning ales, a warm atmosphere, and a genuine taste of traditional British pub culture.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cambridge Lola Lo
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Step into Cambridge Lola Lo, a vibrant tiki-themed nightclub with tropical vibes, lively dance floors, and a stunning rooftop terrace in the city centre.
High Five
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Cambridge's electrifying gay nightclub where themed nights, drag glamour, and inclusive dance floors ignite unforgettable evenings in the city heart.
Vinyl Cambridge
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Dance through decades on a glowing LED floor at Vinyl Cambridge's throwback haven—2-for-1 drinks, VIP vibes, and non-stop retro anthems await in the city center.
MASH
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Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
0.7 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
80s karaoke bar
0.9 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
Cambridge Working Mens Club
1.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Cambridge Working Mens Club, a perfect blend of local culture, music, and community spirit.
Fort St George
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Historic riverside pub on Cambridge's Midsummer Common, serving hearty ales and classics with unbeatable Cam views and garden vibes. (162 characters)
The Calling
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Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Calling, Cambridge's premier event management venue, perfect for unforgettable experiences and fun times.
EBC Shop
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Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
Newnham Croft Social and Sports Club
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant community spirit at Newnham Croft Social and Sports Club, a lively venue for live music, events, and friendly gatherings in Cambridge.
Sing Dizzy
1.8 km
Sing Dizzy offers Cambridge a lively karaoke bar experience with costumes, props, and an extensive song list for unforgettable nights of fun and music.
Salisbury Club
1.8 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
Rock
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at The Rock, a beloved pub and restaurant in the heart of Cambridge.
The Lounge
19.0 km
A lively nightclub and wine bar on The Broadway, offering vibrant late-night entertainment in the heart of St Ives.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
