The visitors’ books from 10 Downing Street, the official residence of the British prime minister, have been made public for the first time. These records reveal a treasure trove of famous signatures spanning decades, from 1970, during Edward Heath’s premiership, to 2003 under Tony Blair.
Prominent autographs include South African anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela, the late Queen Elizabeth II, and multiple US presidents. Queen Elizabeth signed as “Elizabeth R” (Regina, Latin for queen), while King Charles III and Princess Diana used their first names. In 1996, Mandela wrote, “Visiting Downing St, No 10, is always an unforgettable experience,” while Czech leader Vaclav Havel added a heart to his 1990 entry.
The books also feature signatures from former US presidents Jimmy Carter, Ronald orge H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush. In 1989, George H.W. Bush wrote, “With respect, friendship, and gratitude for this relationship that means so much,” with Barbara Bush adding, “Me too.”In 1985, during the 250th anniversary of 10 Downing Street, Margaret Thatcher and five of her living predecessors—Harold Macmillan, Alec Douglas-Home, Harold Wilson, Edward Heath, and James Callaghan—signed the same page.
Other notable signatories include Ethiopia’s Emperor Haile Selassie, Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, and Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The books also contain entries from controversial figures such as Ugandan dictator Idi Amin and Zimbabwean leader Robert Mugabe. These volumes, preserved by the National Archives, were nearly auctioned earlier this year. A retired civil servant reportedly found one while clearing out flood-damaged boxes. Although the book was expected to fetch £15,000 ($18,800), the government halted the sale, asserting ownership under the Public Records Act.
This release offers a rare glimpse into the distinguished and sometimes controversial figures who have visited 10 Downing Street over the years.
