10 Adam Street in London is a spot that has gained playful fame due to its uncanny resemblance to the iconic door of 10 Downing Street, the British Prime Minister's residence. This site is referred to as a "fake" because it mimics the appearance of the famous black door, featuring similar architecture and the classic black paint associated with Downing Street.
The door isn't a filming set nor an intentional tourist attraction; it is simply the entrance to a normal office building. Its accidental resemblance to the leadership seat of the UK comes from the Georgian architecture that dominates this part of the city, offering a serendipitous chance for intrigued passersby to snap a picture.
One quirky aspect of 10 Adam Street is that it often features in social media photo comps and stand-in imagery for memes and jokes about politics or identity, due to its convincing look. Visitors, intentionally or otherwise, sometimes use it as a stand-in for the real thing, giving them a cheeky photo opportunity without the crowd that 10 Downing Street naturally attracts.
Though 10 Adam Street doesn't hold any official or historical significance compared to Downing Street's true Number 10, its surprising similarity makes it a small, delightful discovery on many London's walking tours. For tourists, it serves as a funny and unexpected reminder that London is full of hidden corners and stories, each with its own character and charm.
If you find yourself near The Strand and looking for something a bit fun, stopping by the "Fake 10 Downing Street" allows for an amusing and quick detour. And importantly, it's a great testament to the timeless architectural style that pervades central London, meshing history seamlessly with the present.
Making the Most of Your Visit:
If you're planning a visit to the Fake 10 Downing Street, head there early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the small crowd of curious passersby also taking photos.
The door is located in a business area, so be mindful of office workers who might need to come and go during their workday—it's a place of business, after all, so avoid blocking the entrance.
Once you've captured your cheeky photo, take a few steps back to appreciate the Georgian architectural style of the building and the surrounding area; it's a quintessential London feature that contributes to the door's uncanny resemblance.
Don't spend too long trying to find "10" on Adam Street, as local postal rules exclude a number 10. It's best to look for number 9, as it's right next to it, ensuring you don't miss the spot.
Consider using black-and-white photo filters on your snapshot for an authentic Downing Street touch—it's a clever way to play on the resemblance without needing any advanced photography skills.
Visiting Times & Costs:
The "Fake 10 Downing Street front door" is publicly accessible since it is part of an office building open to the public. However, it is not a tourist attraction with specific visiting hours like a museum, so access is typically available during normal business hours.
There is no cost associated with visiting or photographing the "Fake 10 Downing Street front door" as it is merely a public-facing door of an office building.
Accessibility may be limited to the outside of the building, as the interior is private and intended for those working there. Visitors should remain considerate of office operations and not block entryways.