His Majesty's Treasury at 1 Horse Guards Road, London
The historic and strategic heart of the UK government’s economic policy, located in the iconic government district of Westminster, London.
His Majesty's Treasury, located at 1 Horse Guards Road in London, is the historic and modern heart of the UK government's economic and finance ministry. This iconic government office, housed in a grand early 20th-century building, oversees public spending, economic policy, and financial regulation. Situated near Whitehall and St James's Park, it stands amidst a cluster of significant government buildings and historic landmarks in Westminster.
A brief summary to His Majesty's Treasury
- 1 Horse Guards Rd, London, SW1A 2HQ, GB
- +442072705000
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit nearby St James's Park for a peaceful stroll and excellent views of the Treasury and surrounding government buildings.
- Plan your visit to coincide with ceremonial events at Horse Guards Parade, such as Trooping the Colour in June.
- Although the Treasury building is not open to the public, explore the area on foot to appreciate its historic architecture and political significance.
- Use nearby Westminster or Charing Cross Tube stations for convenient access to the location.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the London Underground to Westminster or Charing Cross stations, both approximately 10-15 minutes' walk from 1 Horse Guards Road. These stations offer frequent service on multiple lines, providing convenient access to the Treasury area.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve the Whitehall and Horse Guards Road area, including routes 11, 24, and 148. Bus travel times vary from 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Buses are accessible but can be crowded during peak hours.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you off near Horse Guards Road. Travel times depend on traffic but typically range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Note that parking is limited and the area is heavily regulated.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Westminster or the West End, walking to the Treasury is pleasant and straightforward, taking 10 to 20 minutes on mostly flat, paved routes. This option offers the best chance to experience the historic surroundings up close.
His Majesty's Treasury location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about His Majesty's Treasury
Historic Foundations of the Treasury
His Majesty's Treasury traces its origins back nearly a millennium to the medieval Exchequer, evolving through centuries of British history. Originally part of the royal financial administration, the Treasury gradually assumed control over the nation's public finances, tax collection, and debt management. Key reforms in the 17th century, including the establishment of a Treasury Commission and the introduction of government bonds, laid the groundwork for modern fiscal governance. The Treasury's role expanded significantly during the 18th and 19th centuries, managing growing public debt and overseeing tax policies as Britain's economy and empire expanded.The Treasury's Role in Modern Governance
Today, His Majesty's Treasury is the UK government's economic and finance ministry, responsible for managing public spending, financial services policy, tax system oversight, and infrastructure investment. It plays a central role in shaping the country's fiscal and monetary policies, ensuring economic stability and sustainable growth. The Treasury building at 1 Horse Guards Road, constructed between 1899 and 1915, also served as the Cabinet War Rooms during World War II, highlighting its strategic importance.Architectural and Geographical Context
The Treasury's imposing building stands on Horse Guards Road, a key government district in Westminster. This area is rich with historic and political significance, bordered by Whitehall and adjacent to St James's Park. Nearby landmarks include the Horse Guards building, the Cabinet Office, and Downing Street. The Treasury’s location places it at the nexus of British governance, surrounded by the corridors of power and ceremonial spaces.Surrounding Environment and Visitor Experience
Visitors to the area can appreciate the blend of historic architecture and green spaces. St James's Park, with its manicured gardens and lake, offers a tranquil contrast to the nearby government offices. The proximity to Horse Guards Parade, the ceremonial parade ground for royal events such as Trooping the Colour, enriches the cultural atmosphere. Although the Treasury itself is not open for public tours, its exterior and surroundings provide insight into the UK's political and financial heart.Significance and Legacy
His Majesty's Treasury embodies the evolution of British fiscal policy and governance, from medieval origins to contemporary economic management. Its stewardship of public finances has shaped national policy through wars, economic crises, and social change. The Treasury continues to influence the UK’s economic direction, balancing tradition with modern challenges in a globally connected economy.Engagement with the Public and Accessibility
While the Treasury is primarily a working government office, its location is accessible to the public. The surrounding Westminster area offers numerous opportunities for exploration, including historic sites, museums, and parks. Visitors can experience the atmosphere of British political life and witness ceremonial events nearby, gaining a deeper appreciation of the Treasury's role in the nation's governance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
His Majesty's Treasury
0.0 km
The historic and strategic heart of the UK government’s economic policy, located in the iconic government district of Westminster, London.
Clive Steps
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A Grade II-listed bronze statue commemorating the controversial architect of British imperial power in India.
Clive of India Memorial
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A towering Edwardian statue in London commemorating Robert Clive, founder of British rule in India, embodying imperial triumph and controversy.
Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue
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Honoring Millicent Garrett Fawcett, the first woman commemorated in Parliament Square, inspiring equality through her iconic statue and legacy.
King Charles Street Arch
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A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
King Charles Street
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Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
Cockpit Steps
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Discover Cockpit Steps, a hidden historic passage in Westminster where London’s royal cockfighting past meets ghostly legend and quiet charm.
10 Downing St
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Discover the historic seat of British leadership, where iconic moments and political power converge behind the famous black door.
10 Downing Street
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Iconic London residence and office of the UK Prime Minister, steeped in centuries of political history and power.
The Cenotaph
0.2 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
The Women of World War II
0.3 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
Guards Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the Guardsmen who fell in World War I, set amidst London’s historic ceremonial heart.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
0.3 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Oliver Cromwell, standing outside Westminster Hall as a symbol of Britain’s turbulent 17th-century history and contested legacy.
Dover House
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Historic neoclassical mansion on Whitehall, home to the Scotland Office with a unique rotunda entrance and rich aristocratic past.
Westminster Hall
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Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Supreme Court
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Explore the UK's highest court in a stunning neo-Gothic building at the heart of London’s political and judicial district.
Mahatma Gandhi statue
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A dignified bronze tribute to Gandhi’s peaceful legacy, standing humbly among world leaders in the heart of London’s historic Parliament Square.
Parliament Sq
0.2 km
Historic London square at the heart of British democracy, adorned with iconic statues and framed by world-famous landmarks.
Central Hall Westminster
0.2 km
Iconic Grade II* listed venue with Europe’s largest self-supporting dome, hosting historic and modern events in central London.
Sir Winston Churchill statue
0.2 km
Iconic bronze statue of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square, symbolizing British resilience and leadership during World War II.
Parliament Square Garden
0.2 km
A historic green oasis in Westminster, offering iconic views and monuments at the heart of London’s political heritage.
The Sanctuary
0.3 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Westminster, with cozy rooms, a classic pub, and sustainable hospitality.
St Margaret's Church
0.3 km
Explore the serene St Margaret's Church, a historic Anglican church in London, next to Westminster Abbey, rich in history and stunning architecture.
Bridge St
0.3 km
Historic Bridge Street in London offers riverside views, rich heritage, and vibrant urban life beside the iconic London Bridge.
Westminster Abbey
0.3 km
Discover the majestic Gothic abbey where British monarchs have been crowned since 1066 and history echoes through every stone.
Big Ben
0.3 km
Explore Big Ben, London's iconic clock tower, a cultural landmark and symbol of British history, attracting millions of tourists each year.
St James's Park
0.4 km
London’s oldest Royal Park, a serene green oasis with iconic palace views, historic charm, and a famous pelican colony in the city center.
Horse Guards Parade
0.4 km
Historic ceremonial parade ground in London’s Whitehall, famed for royal pageantry and military tradition since the 16th century.
Dean's Yard
0.4 km
A historic, tranquil green courtyard nestled within Westminster Abbey’s precincts, blending monastic heritage with collegiate charm.
The Household Cavalry Museum
0.4 km
Explore the living history and pageantry of Britain’s elite Household Cavalry at their historic London headquarters.
Essential places to dine
The Pem
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Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Caxton Grill
0.5 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.6 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Ma La Sichuan
0.6 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
0.6 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
Colosseo Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
0.6 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
The Garden
0.6 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.6 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Wild Honey St James
0.7 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Osteria dell'Angolo
0.7 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
OKAN South Bank
0.8 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Golden Lion
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Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Sapori
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Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
Troia Southbank
0.8 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.2 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.3 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.3 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Crest of London Ltd
0.6 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Browns of London
0.7 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
0.7 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.7 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Lock & Co. Hatters
0.8 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
Gifts of London
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Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
John Lobb St. James
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Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
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Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.9 km
London’s oldest cheesemonger, serving artisan cheese with royal heritage and timeless charm.
Jermyn St
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Discover Jermyn Street, London’s historic menswear enclave blending timeless craftsmanship with contemporary style and refined elegance.
Floris London
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Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Lillywhites
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London's iconic sports megastore at Piccadilly Circus—where athletic excellence meets retail tradition.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Westminster Arms
0.1 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
Two Chairmen
0.2 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.2 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Blue Boar Pub
0.3 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
The Spy Bar
0.5 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Adam & Eve
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Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
Old Shades
0.5 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Le Champagne Bar
0.7 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
All Bar One Victoria
0.7 km
Sophisticated wines, global bites, and lively vibes on Victoria Street – London's go-to for stylish drinks and casual feasts near Westminster's heart.
Gordon's Wine Bar
0.8 km
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.8 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
All Bar One Waterloo
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Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Primo Bar, London
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Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.9 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.9 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TSQ Club
0.6 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Heaven
0.8 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
The Scotch of St James
0.8 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Cirque Du Soul
0.9 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.9 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Tiger Tiger London
0.9 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.9 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Luxe Club
0.9 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Café de Paris
1.0 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Penthouse London
1.0 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.0 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Tabu London
1.1 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
The Cuckoo Club
1.1 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
1.1 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.1 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly